Waterways To The West: Starved Rock

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Chicago, IL, US

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Out Our Front Door

Bike Camping Chicago & The Lower Lake Rim

178 km

292 m

Bike Packing Route From Chicago to Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks on the historic I&M Canal Tail.

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# Bike Camping Route: Chicago to Starved Rock State Park & Matthiessen State Park
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**40% Crushed Limestone | 10% singletrack | 50% Paved routes.**  
Starts at [Eleanor Boathouse in Park 571](https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/park-no-571/) Bridgeport, Chicago, Illinois.  
**Difficulty Level:** Difficult to Advanced.   
**Best Time to go:** April through October.

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# Trip Description:
History buffs, cyclists, nature lovers, and cliff dwellers will thrill to the sights and sounds of this 110-mile route along the Illinois and Michigan Canal (I&M Canal). Along its banks are numerous state parks, restored historical sites, an abundance of wildlife and distinctive landscapes; ranging from bluffs to rolling hills. This trail is part of the Grand Illinois Trail.

The route starts at Eleanor Boathouse that looks just across the water to Canal Origins Park. This historical location is where the canal was cut, finally connecting the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River and, by extension, the Gulf of Mexico with the Atlantic Ocean. Digging this portage opened up Chicago for international trade. Chicago became the economic gateway to the West. Without the I&M Canal, our city would not be much more than a marshy outpost. Take pause and let that all sink in before you straddle your bike and head off.

The route rolls west through Chicago until the @poi[first stop](8817194) at a fitting monument to the Expedition of Louis Joliet and Jacques Marquette. From the there you hit some road riding until @poi[Willow Springs](8817197) popping you onto the Centennial Trail.

This quickly connects to the historic I&M Canal Trail in Lockport along the old towpath. Just before Joliet, the old @poi[Joliet Iron Works](9777021) is worth a look. As you roll out of Joliet, prepare yourself for the pleasure of over 60 miles of uninterrupted gravel rail trail. 
Experience scenic views of the canal and the Des Plaines and Illinois rivers. At every turn, trail users will find something of interest. One can spend an afternoon or several days exploring the wonders along this picturesque and unique area.

West of Ottawa, the I&M gets pretty gnarly. So we recommend popping off at @poi[Buffalo Rock State Park](8817201)and onto Dee Bennet Road. The Illinois River will come back into view as will your first glimpses of the cliffs of Starved Rock.

You're nearly there, but it ain't over yet! There is one long, steep climb crossing the river and up the hill to the park. After this hill congratulate yourself. You made it! Time to set up camp, grab a brew if that's what your into, and plan the nexts day's hike in Starved Rock or Matthiessen State Parks.

# At The State Parks
[Starved Rock State Park](https://www.starvedrockstatepark.org/) 
A flood from a melting glacier, approximately 14,000-17,000 years ago led to the topography of the site and its exposed rock canyons. Diverse forest plant life exists in the park and the area supports several species. For those willing to brave the winter, you'll be rewarded with bald eagle sightings.

Starved Rock is characterized by the many canyons within its 2,630 acres. Located just southeast of the village of Utica, in Deer Park Township, LaSalle County, Illinois, along the south bank of the Illinois River, the park hosts over two million visitors annually, the most for any Illinois state park.

There are over 13 miles (21 km) of hiking trails in Starved Rock State Park. There are 18 deep canyons in the park. The French, LaSalle, Ottawa and St. Louis Canyons feature the more long-lasting waterfalls at Starved Rock. There's a trail along the river offers scenic views from attractions such as Lover's Leap Overlook, Eagle Cliff Overlook and Beehive Overlook

[Matthiessen State Park](https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/parks/pages/matthiessen.aspx) Matthiessen State Park provides a perfect setting for vigorous hike. It has 5 miles of trails and increadibly deep canyons that you can explore. We recommend packing a lunch and spending an entire afternoon exploring the unique geology of this special place. Hike along the upper rim first before scoping out a spot in the canyons to chill. Depending on the rainfall, expect several natural pools; a refreshing summertime dip.

# Lodging & Accomodations
Camping can be had at the Starved State Park or at various surrounding private campgrounds. Both provide a variety of camping options and amenities. You can also stay in nearby Grizzly Park Resort & Hotel, the Starved Rock Lodge Cabin or stay in a nine person Villa for a more comfortable stay.

* [Starved Rock Lodge & Cabins](https://www.starvedrocklodge.com/lodging/) Provides a variety of rustic hotel rooms,  and log cabins in the woods with indoor fireplaces to choose from. You can also relax and unwind in their indoor pool, hot tub and sauna. The Lodge boasts its own Main Dining Room restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Drinks can be had at the Starved Rock Back Door Lodge too. Visit link above for more info, reservations, and pricing.

* [Camping at Starved State Park](https://www.dnr.illinois.gov/parks/camp/pages/starvedrock.aspx) The campground provides 133 Class-A premium sites, complete with electricity. The bath house has showers and flush toilets. Aside from the scenic beauty and flourishing wildlife, people enjoy the way the park is laid out with open grassy areas that are conducive to pitching a tent. Weekend reservations for the Starved Rock campground fill up fast, so plan well in advance. Visit link for more info, reservations, pricing & availbilty.

* Camping along the Trail: The I&M canal trail also offers camping spots along the trail.

* [Papa Murph's Tavern & Campground:](http://www.papamurphs.com/) A privately owned open field campground equally near both state parks, which allows drinking and has a bar on premise. Could be noisy/fun at night.
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**Note:** Firewood and ice are sold at the State Park campground and local areas.

# Trail Notes

We have done this trip in 2 days and in 3 days. If you really want to hike the amazing landscapes, caynons, and waterfalls then do a 3 day trip and spend a full day/night hiking the area trails. You won't regret it.

To see the best waterfalls go just before massive rain storms are in the forecast. More rain equals better waterfalls. And may your campfire shine bright and warm.

An idea to cut your return trip 40mi shorter is to take the @poi[Rock Island Line Metra](8817208) in Joliet.

# Important Reminders

Take care to ensure whatever you bring onto the trails is taken out. Be sure to stay on the established trails to not disturb the fragile ecosystems and cause damage. Be a part of legacy created by conservationists and protect this natural treasure.

**Enjoy Your Trip!**

To learn more about the Out Our Front Door Organization and what we do please visit [www.outourfrontdoor.org](http://www.outourfrontdoor.org)

Waterways To The West: Starved Rock

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