The Rugged And Remote Hiking Trail In Illinois That Is Well-Worth The Effort
By Linze Rice|Published August 31, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
There are thousands of hiking trails in Illinois, and many of them offer a nice, leisurely path through nature. But how satisfying would it be to conquer some of the state’s most rugged trails, traversing some of the most challenging terrain while getting a physical and mental workout? For those seeking a lengthier hike with a major pay-off of some of the most breathtaking views in the state, this rugged trail in Illinois is for you.
The trail begins near the Iron Furnace picnic site and parking lot at mile marker 5.1 of the River to River Trail. But first, take a moment to admire the furnace itself, which dates back to the early 1800s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
It's also a lesser-traveled route, meaning you're less likely to encounter many others on the remote path. That means plenty of time for solo reflection among these incredible bluffs and rock formations.
Though it may take you a full day or two, the physical effort will be worth it once you reach the end. Cliffs overlook miles of rolling hills and thick forest that turn from green to golden throughout the year.
As you get closer to reaching the endpoint near the Eagle Creek/Hitching Post Trailhead, the views are unlike anywhere else in the state, making it a rewarding and memorable hike.
Have you ever tackled this rugged trail in Illinois? Would you give it a shot? What’s your favorite trail in the state? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by checking out the AllTrails website — and don’t forget to pack all your hiking must-haves using our handy packing essentials list!
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