Adventure is always worthwhile, right? And taking a hiking adventure to a secluded cave in Illinois is downright epic. Not only will you see one of the most incredible natural wonders in the state, but the hike there will take you through lush forests and areas with stunning scenic views. This is Cave-In-Rock, and it’s so worthy of an adventure!
Cave-In-Rock State Park is located within the small village of Cave-In-Rock which has less than 300 residents. The village sits along the bluffs of the Ohio River.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
The park covers an area of 204 acres where you can find forests, hills, and bluffs along the river. Best of all, there is a secluded cave within the park as well.
spring adams/AllTrails
To get to the cave, visitors can take the park’s 1.9-mile Hickory Ridge Trail. This lightly-trafficked loop trail is easy enough for all skill levels. However, there are stairs along the way and an overall elevation gain of 262 feet.
Kristin Smith/AllTrails
When you get down to the shoreline of the Ohio River, take a moment to marvel at the bluffs towering above you. These bluffs were created by both wind and water erosion and are quite an impressive sight.
Melanie Hunter/AllTrails
When you see Cave-In-Rock for the first time, be prepared for your jaw to drop. This massive cave has a 55-foot opening and yes, you can go inside!
David Wilson/Flickr
Cave-In-Rock was carved out by wind and water erosion over the course of thousands of years. In the early 1800s, an earthquake also helped further shape the cave.
David Wilson/Flickr
In the past, the cave’s interior was used as a hideout for outlaws and robbers trying to evade capture. Today, it serves as a wonderful natural attraction to explore!
Kerri Vaughn/AllTrails
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
spring adams/AllTrails
Kristin Smith/AllTrails
Melanie Hunter/AllTrails
David Wilson/Flickr
Kerri Vaughn/AllTrails
Are you ready for an adventure to this secluded cave in Illinois? Let us know in the comments if you’ve been here. For more information on the Hickory Ridge Trail, head to AllTrails and click here to learn more about Cave-In-Rock State Park.
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Address: 1 New State Park Rd. Box 338 Cave-In-Rock, Illinois 62919
