2-Day Starved Rock Adventure: Hiking, Waterfalls, and Scenic Views

Day 1: Hiking & Waterfalls

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois, USA on June 14, 2025

9:00am

Arrive at Starved Rock Visitor Center

Start your trip at the Visitor Center to pick up maps, learn about the park's history, and get trail advice from rangers.
USD0, 0h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Starved Rock Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring locally sourced eggs and pastries in the lodge's cozy dining room to fuel up for the day.
USD15-25, 1h

10:30am

Hiking Wildcat Canyon Trail

Explore this scenic trail leading to Wildcat Canyon and its seasonal waterfall, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
USD0, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at the Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant

Recharge with classic American fare including sandwiches, salads, and local specialties in a beautiful lodge setting.
USD15-30, 1h

1:30pm

Hike French Canyon Trail

Discover one of the park's most popular canyons featuring sandstone bluffs and another waterfall, open seasonally until 5pm.
USD0, 2h

3:30pm

Relax at Starved Rock Overlook

Enjoy panoramic views of the Illinois River from this famous overlook, a perfect spot for photos and relaxation.
USD0, 0h30m

4:00pm

Return to Starved Rock Lodge

Rest or explore the lodge grounds before dinner.
USD0, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Red Dog Grill

Dine at this nearby restaurant offering American and Italian dishes featuring fresh local ingredients.
USD20-40, 1h
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Day 2: Matthiessen Park Exploration

Matthiessen State Park, Illinois, USA on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Matthiessen State Park Picnic Area

Grab a to-go breakfast such as pastries or sandwiches to enjoy in the scenic picnic areas before hiking.
USD0-15, 0h30m

8:30am

Explore Matthiessen State Park Hiking Trails

Hike the Dells Canyon Trail to see stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and lush woodland scenery; trails open dawn to dusk.
USD0, 3h

11:30am

Lunch at Matthiessen State Park

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at designated picnic spots surrounded by nature.
USD0, 1h

12:30pm

Visit Cascade Falls Area

See the beautiful cascading waterfalls along well-maintained hiking paths before heading out.
USD0, 1h

1:30pm

Depart Matthiessen State Park

Conclude your trip with memorable nature experiences and begin your journey home or to your next destination.
USD0
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