I always joke that the spring and summer months are what remind us why we live in Illinois. When the sun comes up and the temperatures rise, you’ll find me out exploring nature trails in Illinois. As a Chicagoan, I spend much of the year indoors. Yet when the spring equinox hits, something changes in the Land of Lincoln. After being cooped up indoors, we’re ready to get outside and explore the three best spring hikes in Illinois.
3 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Illinois for a Spring Hike
Below are just a handful of the best hiking trails in Illinois to add to your spring bucket list.
1. Trillium Trail – Giant City State Park
Way down south in Giant City State Park is the 1.1-mile Trillium Trail. This moderate out-and-back trail is particularly beautiful in spring. Here, hikers catch colorful views of wildflowers as they walk alongside rocky cliffs. Additionally, spring is the perfect time to go birdwatching and catch glimpses of pileated woodpeckers and Carolina wrens. You’ll enjoy a lovely shaded path that winds around epic sandstone bluffs.
2. Waterfall Glen Trail – Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
Just outside of Chicago is the 9.5-mile Waterfall Glen Trail. Located within Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, this area has been a beloved nature getaway for city dwellers for decades. The easy loop trail is perfect for soaking up a beautiful spring day in Chicagoland. On this relatively flat trail, hikers can enjoy wide gravel paths that scurry through prairie, forest, creek beds, and small waterfalls. Spring is the best time to visit Waterfall Glen Trail, as melted winter snow and April showers bring life to the preserve’s waterways and waterfalls. In addition to hiking, the trail is particularly nice for riding bikes.
3. French Canyon Trail – Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is a staple day trip from Chicago. While great to visit any time of year, a hike along the French Canyon Trail in spring is a must-do. The moderate 2.6-mile out-and-back trail is particularly special during spring because of its waterfall. After a spring rain, there are a handful of waterfalls scattered throughout the state park’s hike. One is nearly 45-feet tall. Additionally, hikers can enjoy scenic overlooks that offer views of the Illinois River. Plus, wildflowers and lush greenery pop out in the forest and along the footpaths.
Tips for Planning a Spring Hike in Illinois
When you’re getting ready to hit these scenic trails in Illinois, keep a few things in mind. First, Illinois weather is notoriously unpredictable. A May afternoon could be 75 degrees, quickly followed by a 30-degree morning. When planning your adventure, always pay attention to the weather report and have a variety of layers on hand.
While we don’t have the extreme heat of the western states, it can still get intense outside even in spring. Always have plenty of water on hand and lather yourself in sunscreen. The Illinois sun can be sneaky!
When To Visit for Peak Scenery in Illinois
Spring is truly one of the best times to visit Illinois. From April into early June, you’ll be surrounded by more moderate temperatures. However, what truly makes this time period the best to visit is the vibe of the other hikers you’ll encounter. As I mentioned earlier, Illinois comes to life when the sun is shining, and its community begins to thaw out. You’ll hear endless Midwest greetings as you pass fellow hikers on the trail, and see the biggest smiles you’ve seen all year when you get outside with other Illinoians.
Ultimately, these are three of the best hiking trails in Illinois that are worth paying attention to. Whether you’re wandering around wildflowers, chasing waterfalls, or soaking in that long-awaited sunshine, these three spring hikes in Illinois are worth a visit…