Illinois’ state parks offer more than 700 miles of hiking trails, from Chain O’Lakes State Park near the Wisconsin border to Dixon Springs State Park in deep Southern Illinois. Many of the trails connect to camping areas, lookout spots and other outdoor activities.

Bird enthusiasts should check out Matthiessen State Park in Utica, home to more than 200 species of birds and more than 100 types of woodland flowers. Looking for a good workout? Starved Rock State Park, also in Utica, has more than 15 miles of moderate to difficult trails along the beautiful Illinois River.

Looking for something closer to home? Local communities throughout the state have developed extensive networks of walking, running and biking trails, many of which are located on converted railroad lines.

Learn more:
Click here for a listing of hiking, mountain biking and running trails in Illinois
TrailLink – Offering a list of walking trails in Illinois
Trails located in the Metro-East Park and Recreation District
Trails located in Cook County Forest Preserves