Hike Rim Rock National Recreation Trail

Rim Rock Trail follows the edge of the bluff top, hence its name, and features vistas of a slot canyon below, a stone fort used by prehistoric Native Americans, a cave used on the Underground Railroad, and diverse wildlife habitats.

Located near very popular Garden of the Gods, Rim Rock is sometimes overlooked. It shouldn't be. Most of the trail is paved with rock, and after the first 100 yards you will come to a split to the left or right of the loop. At this junction is a stone wall built by Native Americans close to 800-900 years ago.

Continue on to the right and you will come to the top of the bluff. there is a option to take a stair case into a slot canyon. This will lead to Fat Man's Misery and small caves and arches that eventually arrive at the Ox-Lot Cave which was a stop on the Underground Railroad. There is a small spring here and you can see where pioneers would keep their live stock in the cool shelter cave. There is also a small creek and a side trail that will lead to Pound's Hollow Recreation Area.

Once back up the stairs continue to a explore the bluff line and see the glades and pine barrens that are home to endangered species and Prickly Pear Cactus (yes in Illinois).

There is an immense and diverse ecosystem on this trail which is the one reason in 1980 this place was designated a National Recreation Trail.

Quick Note: The stairs and bluffs are very slick when wet. There is also a picnic area at the trail head and most of the trail is handicapped accessible, though the canyon and lower trail are not.