Hiking Trails Around Illinois to Visit Before the Snow Hits

I'm all about hiking this time of year. It's so beautiful with all the fall colors!

If you're looking for a new hiking spot in Illinois, there are tons of trails you need to check out while fall is still around. The colors, the cooler weather, and that crunch of leaves under your boots... there's truly nothing like it. Our own ASMR, if you will.

I've always loved a good nature walk, but I'll admit, hiking wasn't really my thing until my last relationship. He showed me all his favorite spots, which became my favorite spots! I'll take an excuse to throw on a hoodie and hit a trail any day now!

Here are some of my favorite spots I frequent but also would love to visit.

Via Emily

Trails Around Illinois to Hike Before the Snow Hits

Starved Rock State Park
Matthiessen State Park
Devil's Lake
Shawnee National Forest - Garden of the Gods (a dream hike!)
Rock Cut State Park
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

It's on the top of my hiking bucket list to visit Shawnee National Forest. I've heard incredible stories about that place, and yes, it might have of the most dangerous hiking trails in Illinois, but that sounds like a challenge I'm willing to endure.

Don't let the unpredictable weather stop you from exploring, ever. Hiking is free exercise, free vitamin D, and free therapy, honestly. Take a short walk, get some cute photos for Instagram, and take in all the peace it brings just hiking through nature. Trust me, I've cleared my mind more times than I can count at Starved Rock!