Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park

Oglesby, Illinois

4.8/5

based on 4 reviews

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Distance

3.5 miles

Elevation Gain

250 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Kyle Wenzel

The Lower Dells is a fantastic hike for all ages and skill levels. There are beautiful waterfalls, sandstone bluffs, and of course a stunning river winding through the trails.

Starting off right from the parking lot at Matthiessen State Park, follow the trail markers through the forest, across beautiful bridges, and find your way to one of the many stunning waterfalls. Depending on when you go, the water level will vary greatly. During the summer months the water level is fairly low so getting across river crossings is fairly easy, during the spring/fall months however, it helps to have hiking poles to balance as you rock hop across rivers and streams. As for the winter months, strap on a pair of snowshoes and hike right over the frozen river and trails.

Matthiessen State Park is located only a few miles down the road from Starved Rock State Park, and during the peak spring/summer months offers a great alternative to the very busy/crowded Starved Rock.

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Features

Photography

Snowshoeing

Hiking

Bathrooms

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

Groups

River

Scenic

Waterfall

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Reviews

Matt Johnson

Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park

07/24/19

LOVE the lower dells. Was not expecting such a magnificent spot at all. The canyon is massive, and seems surreal at first. I tried to hike the other section of the canyon (continuing south) but it was almost unpassable.

5.0

Emily Otis

Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park

04/03/16

Did this hike after Staved Rock. Super easy--if crazy muddy in this early spring. Hiked the lower first, lots of small caves and many river crossings. It wasn't terrible but bring sandals or be prepared to get your boots wet. You have to hike back down the lower, take the bridge across and that will take you to the upper dells. All in all, a beautiful walk and much less crowded than Starved Rock. Lovely place for a picnic and a leisurely walk--there are a few deep river crossings but expect wet feet one way or another.

5.0

Alex Harrison

Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park

03/27/16

We always go down here for our school photo program and every time we visit we are always treated to great views!

4.0

Brandyn Murray

Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park

03/19/16

I have been to Starved rock two times but have never been to the Lower Dells at Matthiessen. I definitely need to get out here next weekend when I'm up that way. Love the write up.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike the Lower Dells at Matthiessen State Park

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Nearby

Hike the Matthiessen State Park Loop

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