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Hike to Wildcat Canyon at Starved Rock SP

Oglesby, Illinois

4.5/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

2 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Michael

This is a great hike just over an hour from Chicago that leads to a 125 foot waterfall and a canyon that was carved by glacial melt waters. 

If you happen to find yourself in the Chicagoland area be sure to check out the Wildcat Canyon hike at Starved Rock State Park.  This is a 2 mile out and back hike from the visitor's center that leads to the largest waterfall in the park.  There are two viewpoints from the top of the canyon or you can descend the stairs to the bottom and explore the canyon.  The waterfall tends to be at its fullest in springtime and will slow to a trickle in summer. 

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Reviews

I hiked this last weekend (February 26, 2017), and it was warm and sunny for February, but still on the cold side, and we got to see some ice formations at the base of the waterfall, though it was obviously not nearly as lush, but still a great sight and pleasant hike!

We entered the park as everyone was leaving due to severe weather. This was no high mountain summit so we went in! We got down to the canyon floor and there was not a single soul in sight. We got some awesome photos!

Leave No Trace

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

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