Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
La Salle Canyon Waterfall
Hiking
5.0
(17)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Starved Rock State Park
Tips
September 6, 2023
Hiking
July 29, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near La Salle Canyon Waterfall
4.9
(25)
263
hikers
8.12km
02:12
110m
110m
Embark on a moderate hike through the Starved Rock, Wildcat Canyon, and French Canyon Loop, a 5.0-mile (8.1 km) journey that takes about 2 hours and 11 minutes to complete. You'll gain 355 feet (108 metres) in elevation as you explore the unique sandstone formations and lush canyon environments. Imagine walking through the cool, shaded depths of Wildcat Canyon, where seasonal waterfalls might greet you. Further along, French Canyon offers its own distinct beauty with towering rock walls. This route provides a refreshing escape into nature, showcasing the park's geological wonders.
Accessing the trail is straightforward, with ample parking available at Starved Rock State Park. Before you head out, it's always a good idea to check the park's official website for any current alerts or important seasonal considerations. This includes information on trail conditions or potential closures, which can change depending on weather or maintenance. Planning ahead ensures you have the best possible experience on your hike.
This loop is a fantastic way to experience some of Starved Rock State Park's most iconic natural features. The area is renowned for its impressive sandstone formations, carved by ancient waters, creating a dramatic landscape. You'll find yourself immersed in a unique ecosystem, distinct from the surrounding plains. It's a prime example of the geological history that shaped this region, offering a memorable outdoor adventure.
4.9
(8)
55
hikers
19.1km
05:10
270m
270m
The Starved Rock State Park full loop offers a deep dive into Illinois' unique geological formations, guiding you through lush forests and dramatic sandstone canyons carved by glacial meltwater. You'll encounter a maze of wooden stairways and dirt paths, exploring highlights like French Canyon and the seasonal waterfalls of La Salle Canyon, all while enjoying expansive views of the Illinois River from overlooks such as Lover's Leap. This difficult 11.8-mile (19.1 km) hiking route, with 881 feet (269 metres) of elevation gain, is a challenging journey that typically takes 5 hours and 10 minutes.
Planning your visit requires sturdy hiking shoes and an awareness of the varied terrain, which includes numerous staircases and potentially slippery sections. The park's own estimates suggest allowing 30 to 45 minutes per mile due to the challenging conditions and the many stops you'll want to make at viewpoints and canyon entrances. While specific parking for this comprehensive loop isn't detailed, starting early from the main visitor center is advisable to secure a spot and avoid the busiest times.
Starved Rock State Park stands out in Illinois for its remarkable landscape, featuring 18 sandstone canyons that are more typical of mountainous regions than the Midwest prairie. These canyons, formed over 14,000 years ago by glacial meltwater, are particularly stunning in spring with their seasonal waterfalls, and in winter when they can freeze into glittering ice sculptures. This long hiking route allows you to experience a wide array of these natural features, making it a truly unique adventure in the region.
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
11.9km
03:12
150m
150m
Embark on a moderate hike through the Illinois, Kaskaskia, & La Salle Canyons, a 7.4 miles (11.9 km) route that takes about 3 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You will gain 490 feet (149 metres) as you explore the dramatic sandstone formations carved by ancient glacial meltwater. The trail winds through deep canyons, revealing moss-covered walls and leading you to impressive sights like the 25-foot La Salle Canyon Waterfall. Expect to navigate a series of staircases and boardwalks, offering varied perspectives of this unique landscape and glimpses of the Illinois River.
Before you head out, be aware that the route involves significant elevation changes due to numerous staircases, and there are no ADA-compliant trails into the canyons. Trails can become quite muddy, especially following rainfall, so make sure to wear sturdy, waterproof footwear. While parking and trailheads within Starved Rock State Park are typically well-marked, it is always a good idea to check the park's official website for any current seasonal conditions or alerts before your visit.
This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the geological wonders of Starved Rock State Park, a landscape profoundly shaped by the powerful forces of glacial meltwater. You will encounter impressive sandstone formations and seasonal waterfalls that highlight the park's unique natural history. The route provides stunning views of the Illinois River from various overlooks, connecting you to the broader regional environment and making it a notable destination for hikers.
Details
Informations
Distance 446 m
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 30 m
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Sunday 28 June
31°C
18°C
13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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