Starved Rock: Sandstone Canyons 90 Miles From Chicago

Near Utica, Illinois. Take I-55 south from Chicago, I-80 west, exit onto IL-178. Ninety minutes and you're in a state park with sandstone canyons, waterfalls, and the Illinois River threading through like it has somewhere important to be.

The canyon trails descend through moss-covered walls where water drips from ledges and the air goes damp and cool. Wooden bridges span shade-dark creeks. The overlooks open to the river in a blue-sky panorama that makes the drive feel retroactive. Spring after thaw brings the waterfalls — thin sheets of water over orange and gray stone. Fall turns the canyon walls russet.

The trails have stairs and steep sections — real shoes, not flip-flops. Parking fills early on weekends. The visitor center lot is the main one. Midweek dawn visits are when you might catch a fox in the meadow and have the canyon to yourself. Bring water and a jacket — the canyons stay cool even when the parking lot is baking.