Near Bluff Trail - West
Waterfall leading down the canyon.
Near Bluff Trail - West
French Canyon.
Near Bluff Trail - West
Bridge leading over a small creek.
Near Bluff Trail - West
Starved Rock State Park
Near Bluff Trail - West
Connecting Trail - French Canyon boardwalk.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Bluff Trail - West

3.8 (6 Ratings)
A primary trail through the park past several canyons
2.7
mi
Distance
303
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsFamily FriendlyViewsWaterfallWildlife
Access Issues
Starved Rock State Park is only open from dawn to dusk.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.74mi
Distance
303ft
Elevation Gain
320ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
593ft
High Point
470ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The !Bluff Trail - West is one of the primary trails through the park. It can be accessed from parking areas on the west side of the park or near the center at the Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center. From the west, it very quickly connects with the Interior Canyon Trail - St. Louis Canyon before continuing along the bluff's edge past Kickapoo Canyon, Sac Canyon, and Aurora Canyon, where a gradual descent brings it around the lodge and parking area. Continuing on, it soon intersects the Connecting Trail - French Canyon near the top of French Canyon. A rolling climb brings it to the intersection with the French Canyon Trail followed by the top of Wildcat Canyon. Take some time to enjoy the overlook on either side. You can also descend the Wildcat Connector if you choose. From there, the rolling terrain continues until the trail ends with a steep descent past the Sandstone Point Overlook.

Route Conditions

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Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
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Contributors
Eric Ashley