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    21 Of The Very Best Hiking Trails, State Parks, And Outdoor Adventures In Illinois

    Chase waterfalls, see limestone formations that date back millions of years, and go leaf peeping in the best spot the state has to offer.

    Looking to explore the great state of Illinois?

    There's no better way to do that than by getting outdoors. Below you'll find more than 20 of the best outdoor adventures and nature spots that The Prairie State has to offer — from state parks, to hiking and biking trails, to historical sites. If I missed your favorite, leave it in the comments!

    1. Matthiessen State Park

    Photo of a canyon in Matthiessen State Park

    2. Starved Rock State Park

    Photo of a waterfall in Starved Rock State Park

    3. Buffalo Rock State Park

    Aerial view of Buffalo Rock State Park

    4. Kettle Moraine State Forest (South)

    View of fog over the Kettle Moraine State Forest

    5. Glacial Park Conservation Area

    Glacial Park Conservation Area.

    6. Kankakee River State Park

    View of the Kankakee River State Park trail

    7. North Branch Trail

    Photo of the North Branch Trail in winter

    8. Moraine Hills State Park

    Photo of the state park in winter

    9. Ned Brown Forest Preserve

    Photo of Ned Brown Forest Preserve in winter

    10. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

    Photo of a waterfall at the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

    11. Shawnee National Forest

    Aerial view of the national forest

    12. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

    Close up photo of two butterflies on a purple flower

    13. Deer Grove

    Photo of a deer in a field

    14. Apple River Canyon State Park

    Photo of a fishing creek at Apple River Canyon State Park

    15. Ferne Clyffe State Park

    Photo of fall trees at the Ferne Clyffe State Park

    16. The Morton Arboretum

    Field of flowers at The Morton Arboretum

    17. Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area

    Close up shot of yellow maple leaves

    18. Castle Rock State Park

    Photo of a rocky overlook at the Castle Rock State Park

    19. Illinois Beach State Park

    Photo of a trail leading to water at the Illinois Beach State Park

    20. Joliet Iron Works Historic Site

    Photo of the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site

    21. I&M Canal Trail

    Photo of a trail on the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail

    Do you have a favorite hiking spot in Illinois? Tell us in the comments below!