Fox Ridge State Park is one of the least-visited but best state parks in Illinois – and if you’re looking for a scenic Illinois hiking trail (or trails, depending on how you approach it), you can’t do much better than the Fox Ridge loop trail, which combines several shorter trails into a 4.8-mile loop.

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At just over 2,000 acres, Fox Ridge State Park is relatively small when compared to other parks in the system. It also receives fewer visitors, which means you're likely to find its eight miles of rugged trails uncrowded.
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The park is home to nine named trails, and if you combine about half of them, you can put together a 4.8-mile loop hike through the best of the park's scenery.
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Fox Ridge is also home to abundant wildlife, such as raccoons, white-tailed deer, hawks, owls, wild turkeys, and obviously the namesake fox.

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The scenic Embarras River, which you'll see from certain points on the trail, runs through the park. You'll start out your hike on the Trail of Trees, the trailhead closest to the Ball Diamond Parking Area.
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Then you'll take Acorn Avenue to the Nature's Corner Trail.
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As you explore the Nature's Corner portion of the loop, you won't want to miss the stunning Eagle's Nest Overlook. However, be prepared for a bit of a climb - you'll need to ascend more than 140 stairs to reach the observation deck. But once you're there, the breathtaking view will make it all worthwhile.
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Enjoy the picturesque views of the Embarras River valley, the bluffs and bottomlands that line it. From there, you'll finish your hike along the No-Name Trail Loop, reconnect with Acorn Avenue, and head back to the ball diamond. The whole route should take 90 minutes or so.

You’ll just love a jaunt around this less-than-five-mile loop. Have you hiked the loop trail at Fox Ridge State Park, Illinois? I love the idea of spotting some wildlife along the trail – how about you? Let me know!

If you’re taking a road trip to Fox Ridge State Park and planning to spend the night in the area, be sure to check out these lovely vacation rentals!

And if you’re looking to explore more of the least-visited parks in the Land of Lincoln, check out 7 Of Illinois’ Least-Visited State Parks – some of the scenic Illinois hiking trails at these parks are among the best hikes in Illinois.

Take This Unforgettable Road Trip To 7 Of Illinois’ Least-Visited State Parks

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Illinois

Jasmine Vieau | February 05, 2024

What are the best waterfall hikes in Illinois?

While Illinois may not be waterfall-rich, there are a couple of hidden gems worth exploring on the following hikes:

  • Matthiessen State Park: Cascade Falls
    • Location: Matthiessen State Park, Oglesby, Illinois
    • Features: Cascade Falls is a picturesque waterfall within Matthiessen State Park, surrounded by stunning rock formations and lush greenery.
  • Starved Rock State Park: LaSalle Canyon
    • Location: Starved Rock State Park, Utica, Illinois
    • Features: LaSalle Canyon in Starved Rock State Park may have seasonal waterfalls after rain, offering a beautiful natural setting.

 

What is the best fall hike in Illinois? 

One of the best fall hikes in Illinois is at Starved Rock State Park. The park, located near Utica, offers beautiful autumn foliage and several trails that showcase the vibrant colors of fall. One particularly popular trail for fall foliage is the Starved Rock and French Canyon Loop.

 

What are the best family-friendly hikes in Illinois?

Illinois offers several family-friendly hikes that cater to various skill levels and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Starved Rock State Park:
    • Trail: Multiple trails suitable for families, such as the St. Louis Canyon Trail and the French Canyon Trail.
    • Features: Waterfalls, canyons, and scenic views.
  • Matthiessen State Park:
    • Trail: Dells Area Loop Trail and Cascade Falls Trail are family-friendly options.
    • Features: Rock formations, lush greenery, and the picturesque Cascade Falls.
  • Hickory Creek Preserve:
    • Trail: Hickory Creek Bikeway is a family-friendly, paved trail.
    • Features: Wooded areas, prairies, and a serene creek.
  • Chicago Lakefront Trail:
    • Trail: A paved trail along Lake Michigan offering scenic urban views.
    • Features: Parks, beaches, and family-friendly amenities.
  • Illinois Beach State Park:
    • Trail: Dunes and Dead River Trails are suitable for families.
    • Features: Lake Michigan shoreline, dunes, and diverse ecosystems.

 

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Fox Ridge State Park, 18175 State Park Rd, Charleston, IL 61920, USA