Experience Fall In Starved Rock Country

Nestled along the tree-lined Illinois River, Starved Rock Country is home to some of the state’s top-rated destinations for experiencing fall colors. From scenic drives under colorful canopies to picturesque guided hikes that explain the science behind the jaw-dropping seasonal transformation. As the leaves get nearer to reaching their autumnal peak, now’s a great time to start planning your sightseeing road trip.

WHERE SHOULD I VISIT?

Starved Rock State Park

Start your adventure with a drive through Starved Rock State Park. The popular park sports one of Enjoy Illinois’ top-ranked scenic drives for experiencing the fall colors. Route 71 is a wonderfully winding road that takes you from a serene riverfront lane to the prairie outside the park, before snaking over several canyons and past towering, tinted trees.

As Illinois’ most popular state park and one of the best nature destinations in the Midwest, Starved Rock’s fame is well-earned. The park boasts 18 beautiful canyons, 13 miles of trails catering to all levels of experience, panoramic views of the Illinois River and a historic lodge and dining hall.

Matthiessen State Park

This picturesque park takes you from wildflower-lined prairie trails to the depths of Ice Age-era dells, complete with rushing waterfalls and mossy canyon walls. Matthiessen’s otherworldly trails include options for both novice and experienced hikers, allowing all park patrons to enjoy views of the grand Cascade Falls and Giant’s Bathtub. You’ll likely see more than just fellow hikers on these trails – Matthiessen also features some of the best horseback riding paths in the Starved Rock area.

I&M Canal

Running through three counties (Will, Grundy and La Salle), the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail is one of the most historic and picturesque parks in Starved Rock Country. A popular biking and hiking trail, the tree-lined mid-19th century waterway also serves as a great spot for enjoying fall colors. A flat, graded gravel path makes for an easy and accommodating sightseeing trip.

The 15-mile stretch of canal that runs from Ottawa to La Salle is an excellent bicycling destination. You’ll pass three historic towns and see some astounding fall scenery.

WHAT FALL COLOR ACTIVITIES ARE THERE?

Guided hikes

Both Starved Rock Lodge and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources offer a variety of guided hikes led by experienced naturalists. Starved Rock Lodge’s hikes depart from the Lodge lobby every Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. The expert naturalists will take you to some of the best fall color photo ops throughout the park on one-hour group hikes.

New for 2026, you also can reserved guided hikes at the nearby Matthiessen State Park. Discover the beauty of Starved Rock’s sister park on an exciting guided hike through one of Illinois’ most breathtaking natural treasures. You’ll journey through sandstone canyons, forested trails, streams, and rock formations – all while experiencing spectacular fall colors. Hikes depart at 9 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. There are ticketed hikes and must be reserved in advance. For a full list of hikes on offer, visit: starvedrocklodge.com/events.

Fall color trolley tours

Trolley tours are one of Starved Rock Lodge’s signature events – and one of the best ways to experience the diversity and beauty of the park’s fall colors. These special seasonal tours include lunch at the Lodge’s restaurant and a short guided hike to Council Overhang and Ottawa Canyon. The all-ages tours are held aboard buses with modern, climate-control systems, ensuring you’ll have a comfortable ride, even in the crisp fall weather. Tours run select Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., and Tuesdays at 11 a.m.

Fall river cruises

Looking for an extra special fall river excursion? Book a fall color sightseeing cruise with narration on the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat in Ottawa. Take a leisurely cruise down the beautiful Illinois River, hearing historic and geological tales while enjoying the brilliant tree canopies - led by local guide Joe Jakupcak. Tour departs 4: 30 p.m. Oct. 29. To reserves your place aboard, visit stegenriverboat.com/cruises/

The Starved Rock Lodge also is offering a Sunset Cruise and Dinner on Oct. 29. Enjoy a cruise down the beautiful Illinois River aboard the Sainte Genevieve Riverboat. For this special tour, you will board the trolley at the Lodge and head over to beautiful Ottawa for your cruise. After the cruise, the trolley will bring you back to the Lodge for dinner. Reservations required. Call 815-220-7386 to book.

Boutique shopping

La Salle County offers wonderful boutique shopping opportunities to get you out and about during the fall, such as Ottawa’s tree-lined shopping district and historic downtown Streator. La Salle’s shopping district is located just a short walk away from the I&M Canal, while Utica is just a stone’s throw from Starved Rock State Park.

Take a historic walking tour

Embark on a chilling expedition through the annals of Starved Rock Country true crime history with Awesome Ottawa Tour’s “Vice & Violence: Brothels, Bootleggers & Broken Lives.” Ottawa serves as the backdrop for a journey into the world of organized crime, delving beyond the headlines to explore the life of infamous mob kingpin John Patrick Looney.

If you’re looking to learn more about the region’s fascinating history, browse Awesome Ottawa Tours’ full selection of walks, driving tours and historical road-trips. Over the course of these tours, you’ll hear tales of crime, liberation and perseverance that all played a part in shaping this beautiful riverfront town. To tours are available through Oct. 30, visit awesomeottawatours.com or call 815-343-4940.

For Fall color updates, head to starvedrockcountry.com and follow us on Facebook at Starved Rock Country.