Little Grand Canyon Trail Loop(edit)

based on 61 tracks & routes | |

EASY

#1 hike out of 30 in |

EASY

3.0 mi

Distance

1 hrs 34 min

Time

380 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a easy loop trail to Chalk Bluff in Illinois.

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

idkuhlbrz 2 months, 2 weeks ago

There are two waterfalls to traverse. One into the floor of the valley and the other back out. If you have had any knee, hip, or back issues, this is a moderate level hike. Go slow, wear good shoes, and a hiking pole with a rubber bottom is better than a wooden walking stick. Great hike and view.

★ ★ ★ ★

sinarcsin 3 years, 7 months ago

Little Grand Canyon Trail is a fun and somewhat challenging trail. No Flip Flops here only sturdy shoes with a good sole. You’re going to need good traction as you climb down or up the rocks at the waterfalls. Little Grand Canyon is a loop trail where you decide whether you’re going to go clockwise or counterclockwise. The trailheads are located on different sides of the parking lot. The clockwise trailhead is located at near the pit toilets. Both directions have there advantages and disadvantages. If this is your first time here I would recommend the clockwise directions. Be aware no mater which direction you chose you’re going have to descend or ascend the sandstone rocks next to a waterfall. If there is water running these can be slippery. Some of the rock faces have steps cut into them and these can be slippery to. Going clockwise the descent down the waterfall is shorter. When you’re near the end of the hike you will be ascending the longer waterfall. The trade off here is the last half mile of the clockwise direction is all up hill. Enjoy your hike, but be careful.

★ ★ ★ ★

isaiahtimtanner 4 years, 8 months ago

We went in mid summer. It was wicked hot but still a great hike. The only tricky part is the descent/ascent into the canyon that runs through a draw. The draw is exposed sandstone bedrock that can be slick at times.

★ ★ ★ ★