Trail Overview

This route starts with an easy descent into the Illinois Bayou. Shortly after descending, there is a group of pick your own line mudholes to choose from; some holes can be up to 30" deep. These can also be bypassed. The route follows the Bayou for .75 miles and has two water crossings. The offshoot to the East Fork Wilderness has a water crossing that can be impassible in the rainy season; this part also is a dead end. The ascent out of the Bayou is a steady, steep climb that has washouts up to 24" deep and rocks up to 20" in height. There is an outcrop of rocks and a cave to be explored 3/8 of a mile before the trail meets Highway 27. Highway legal vehicles only.

Photos of East Fork Illinois Bayou

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Mud holes up to 30", Washouts 24" deep, Rocks up to 20", and red clay mud that is very slick.

Technical Rating

Alex Richmond

Feb 08, 2026

Open

Decent ground clearance or a disregard for vehicle is needed. Fun trail!

Aaron Quezada

Dec 18, 2025

Open

Over grown a bit, definitely will get some pin stripes. Rain came in early and bailed off the trail and headed out at the Y in the trail that is unnamed. Need a good amount of ground clearance to avoid dragging in some spots. If you don’t mind some scratches go for it. Would suggest a spotter in some areas.

RJ Moore

Jul 30, 2024

Open

Sketchy. I came in from the top side. I encountered many deep wash outs. There are very limited if any places to turn around . I have a jeep jku on 35's. very narrow in places and I can't see a truck or any full size vehicle navigating this trail. I was by myself so it was a little more than I wanted. Going up would have probably put me in a bad situation. I'm just an average weekend jeeper so take my report with a grain of salt. July '24