If you’re ready to embrace fall with open arms and a sense of adventure, Illinois has seven incredible natural wonders just waiting to be explored. From rugged cliffs to serene waters, these spots will have you falling in love with the season all over again!

1. Starved Rock State Park (Utica, IL)

Famous for its dramatic sandstone canyons and seasonal waterfalls, Starved Rock offers 13 miles of trails that showcase autumn’s vibrant colors. Located along the Illinois River, it’s a must-visit for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

Enjoy Illinois;YouTube
Enjoy Illinois;YouTube
loading...

RELATED: 10 Most Thrilling Adventures at Illinois’ Starved Rock State Park


 

97 ZOK logo
Get our free mobile app

MORE: 28 Things People of Illinois Look Forward To Most In the Fall

2. Garden of the Gods (Shawnee National Forest, Herod, IL)

Canva
Canva
loading...

With its stunning rock formations that date back over 300 million years, Garden of the Gods provides some of the most awe-inspiring views in the Midwest. Hike the Observation Trail to see the iconic Camel Rock and soak in the panoramic vistas. Take a stroll across the Pomona Natural Bridge.

Shawnee is also home to the very challenging Godwin Trail, one of the most dangerous hikes in the state.

RELATED: Rent This Luxurious Glamping Dome Near Illinois' Shawnee Forest


MORE: Tallest Waterfall in Illinois: Burden Falls in Pope County

 

3. Matthiessen State Park (Oglesby, IL)

TSM
TSM
loading...

Just a stone’s throw from Starved Rock, Matthiessen State Park features beautiful canyons, rock formations, and cascading waterfalls. Its trails wind through dense woods, offering the perfect fall foliage experience.

TSM
TSM
loading...

 

4. Cave-In-Rock State Park (Cave-In-Rock, IL)

This park is home to a massive limestone cave overlooking the Ohio River. Once a hideout for America's first serial killers, the cave now offers a peaceful escape with stunning river views and scenic trails.

Kenneth Dotson Photography via YouTube
Kenneth Dotson Photography via YouTube
loading...

 

5. Mississippi Palisades State Park (Savanna, IL)

Canva
Canva
loading...

Nestled along the Mississippi River, this park is known for its towering bluffs and winding trails. The park’s overlooks provide breathtaking views of the river valley, especially during the fall when the leaves turn golden.

Mississippi Palisades Park is one of the 5 best camping spots in Illinois.


 

6. Cache River State Natural Area (Belknap, IL)

Explore the ancient cypress swamps of Cache River, where you’ll find some of the oldest trees in the state, some over 1,000 years old. Paddle through the swamps or hike the boardwalk trails for a unique fall adventure.

MORE: 6 Reasons Galena is the Perfect Summer Road Trip


7. Giant City State Park (Makanda, IL)

Named for its massive sandstone bluffs that resemble giant buildings on busy streets, Giant City State Park is a fall paradise. The Giant City Nature Trail leads you through a maze of towering rocks and lush forests, making it a perfect spot for leaf-peeping.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or climbing cliffs, these natural wonders offer endless opportunities for fall fun and adventure in Illinois. Grab your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and let the exploration begin!

MORE: 5 Best Illinois Places To Boost Your Serotonin Levels

LOOK: Best scenic drives in Illinois

It's time to hit the road—Stacker compiled a list of the best scenic drives in Illinois using data from Tripadvisor as of March 2024.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

More From 97 ZOK