Most of the middle of the country is known as a horizontal desert with slightly sloping hills but mostly fields and prairies. If you look close enough, though, you’ll notice that there are Midwest mountains in Illinois you may have missed. Of course, the Land of Lincoln doesn’t have any actual mountains, but you can check out these cool places and pretend. From wicked rock formations to the highest elevations in the state, this list will have you feeling on top of the world.

1. Charles Mound
Charles Mound, Scales Mound Township, IL 61075, USA
Wikimedia Commons/TheCatalyst31
Located in Scales Mound near Galena, this is the highest natural elevation in Illinois. At 1,235 feet above sea level, it offers lovely views atop the plateaus that overlook the river valley. You can literally see the lowest point in the state (the Mississippi River) from the highest point. This historic hiking hill is located on private property, and the owners allow access the first weekend of each month June through September.
2. Chestnut Mountain Resort
Chestnut Mountain Resort, 8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena, IL 61036, USA
Facebook/Chestnut Mountain Resort
Daviess County actually has two Midwest mountains to check out. Chestnut Mountain Resort is located at a fabulous lodge that is open all year long and which features guestrooms, restaurants, event space, and all sorts of on-site attractions like river cruises, segway tours, a zipline, an alpine slide, and winter skiing and snowboarding. The slopes are 3,500 feet high with a 475-foot vertical drop. Yet again, you'll be able to see the Mississippi River from this uniquely high vantage point.
3. Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods Road, Garden of the Gods Rd, Illinois, USA
TripAdvisor/Simon M
The opposite end of the state is known for its high points too. The Shawnee National Forest is arguably the most beautiful part of Illinois, and it is rife in rock formations that are basically mini mountains. In total, the area spans 3,300 acres and is essentially a garden of sandstone sculptures that have been molded by wind over millions of years. Visitors love to climb these unique natural wonders that stretch more than 100 feet tall and reach elevations of more than 800 feet.

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4. Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Yinan Chen
One of the most popular natural attractions in the Land of Lincoln, this amazing state park reaches an elevation of 548 feet. It is most recognizable for the giant rock formation that gives it its name. It is situated along the south bank of the Illinois River, making it one of the most scenic places to hike and rock climb. It is an especially lovely place to find waterfalls. Come see why it's one of our all-time favorite state parks in Illinois.
5. Fox River Trail
Fox River Trail, Elgin, IL, USA
Wikimedia Commons/JeremyA
Believe it or not, there's a little-known hiking trail in northern Illinois that reaches some of the highest elevations in the state too. The highest point is actually 738 feet above sea level on this 40-mile trail, and though it is less mountainous, it is a great biking and hiking path that connects a plethora of towns and communities.
6. Bald Knob
Bald Knob Cross of Peace, 3630 Bald Knob Rd, Alto Pass, IL 62905, USA
Facebook/Bald Knob Cross of Peace
Another of Illinois's highest points can be seen for 7,500 square-mile radius in southern Illinois. It features the Cross of Peace, which stands 111 feet tall and 1,034 feet above sea level. The hilly views all around will have you feeling like you're in the midst of the Midwest mountains.

For more fun adventures, check out these eight caves in Illinois that will transport you to a whole other world.

What other Midwest mountains can you think of? Do you have any favorite mountains in IL? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

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More to Explore

Mountains In IL

Tori Jane | September 29, 2022

Where is the highest elevation in IL?  

The highest elevation in Illinois isn’t really all that high when it comes down to it. While states like Colorado have peaks that reach 14,000 feet or higher, Illinois is a little more low-key with it. The highest elevation in Illinois is a whopping 1,235 feet high, at a little place called Charles Mound. Charles Mound is about two miles north of another famous hill known as Scales Mound. As for the southern portion of the state, the highest elevation in southern Illinois is Williams Hill, which is 1,064 feet in elevation.  

Are there any mountains in IL?  

Unfortunately for lovers of mountain climbing, there are not. Illinois isn’t a mountainous place, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an excellent destination for a vacation or getaway anyway! Visiting the amazing state parks of Illinois is an experience and a half, and you definitely don’t need mountains for an amazing time. You could also embark upon one of our famous Illinois waterfall road trips and see just how awesome nature can be (without mountains).  

What IL places are the best for a getaway?  

Life in Illinois is amazing, especially if you’re a lover of all things nature. There are some incredibly beautiful places in Illinois that are perfect for a weekend escape (or longer) - like we said, no mountains necessary! Do an incredible drive on the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway, a 33-mile adventure that can easily be turned into a whole trip. Meander out to the Shawnee National Forest and go camping (or glamping), or maybe pay a visit to places like Starved Rock State Park or Giant City State Park. So, sure, maybe the Land of Lincoln isn’t exactly a ski resort hotspot, but it definitely is a nature lover’s paradise that’s absolutely worth visiting time and time again.  

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