There aren’t too many hikes in the Prairie State that have a high elevation gain; after all, the state’s highest point is Charles Mound at 1,235 feet. However, there are a few hikes with a little bit of elevation that lead to magnificent overlooks. One such hike is Inspiration Point in Illinois. It is located within the Shawnee National Forest, and once there you will be treated to impressive views at the top!

Found near Wolf Lake in the LaRue Pine Hills area, the hike from the Inspiration Point Trailhead is a 0.7-mile out-and-back trail.
Mercedees Edwards/AllTrails
It has just a 164-foot elevation gain that nonetheless leads to breathtaking views.
Accessible throughout the year, this trail is rated as moderate with some steep areas and loose rocks.
Connie Jeffries/AllTrails
But be sure to bring sturdy shoes because it can be muddy during inclement weather.
When you get to the top, be prepared for some magnificent, jaw-dropping views!
K Smith/AllTrails
You will be able to see why this is called "Inspiration Point."

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On top of 300-foot limestone cliffs, you will be treated to panoramic views of the Mississippi River valley.
Jonathan Tolley/AllTrails
You'll also be able to see the Big Muddy Riverbottom, one of Illinois’ natural wonders.
Although the hike itself is short, you will want to take as much time as possible.
Kali Brannan/AllTrails
Sit for a spell at this inspiring Illinois overlook and take in the breathtaking views all around you.
Again, as the trail is a bit rugged and the bluffs are quite high, be very careful and wear proper footwear.
Browning Steven Joe/AllTrails
If you are hiking with the family, keep the little ones close to you.
This short and sweet hike up to Inspiration Point will give you some of the best "inspiration" you can find in Illinois!
Keith Duerk/Google Maps

For hiking trail information, visit the Inspiration Point Trail page on Alltrails. Find more awesome hikes in the Shawnee National Forest and the Prairie State – and download maps – on AllTrails+.

Have you ever hiked the Inspiration Point trailhead? If so, what was your favorite part? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

If you’re still in the mood for more Illinois adventures, take a look at this video about the historic river town of Galena:

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

More Adventures in Illinois

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | July 13, 2023

Where can we find small towns in Illinois?

  • Galesburg was once a hub for industry as well as an important stop on the Underground Railroad.
  • Nauvoo was once the town where Joseph Smith and the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints went to escape religious persecution.
  • Dixon is famous for being the boyhood home of former President Ronald Reagan.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other charming small towns in Illinois.

Where can we find natural wonders in Illinois?

  • The Cache River Natural Area in Belknap features giant ancient cypress trees with buttresses measuring up to 40 feet in diameter.
  • The Garden of the Gods in Herod is home to some otherworldly rock formations.
  • Giant City State Park in Makanda is known for its giant sandstone bluffs and rock formations.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other natural wonders in Illinois.

Where can we find the best hotels and resorts in Illinois?

  • The CitizenM Chicago Downtown Hotel in Chicago features a rooftop bar and lounge offering spectacular city views.
  • The Sybaris Pool Suites Northbrook in Northbrook features tropical waterfalls, soothing whirlpools, and a steamroll.
  • The Goldmoor Inn in Galena features cottages and cabins overlooking the Mississippi River.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other fantastic hotels and resorts in Illinois.

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