You’ll Fall In Love With The Tiny Waterfall Hiding Along This Breathtaking Illinois Trail

The way I see it, there are two types of hikes: trails and waterfall trails. The former are all about the journey and soaking up some nature, but the latter have a clear destination in mind. I am partial to waterfall hikes, but I hate being disappointed when waterfalls run dry. Of course, the trail is not to blame; but when I set out to see something, that's what I want to see!

Seeing a waterfall you have been building up excitement for is a gratifying feeling, but the only thing better is when you find a waterfall where you weren’t expecting to. That’s why this breathtaking trail in southern Illinois is one of my favorites.

Lusk Creek Loop Trail is in part of the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois.

As loop trails go, this one is quite long at 12.9 miles in total. While it can be done in a day, make sure to start your day of hiking early to be sure you get back before dark.

Throughout this trail there are rock formations you will get to wander alongside.

This area was once covered by the Illinoian Glacier before melting away to reveal the sandstone, limestone, and shale outcroppings we see today. I love trails like this that have you getting up close and personal with nature.

The Lusk Creek Loop trail can be a challenge to hike as there are many uphill sections.

Anyone hiking this trail will get in a cardiovascular workout. The total elevation gain on this trail is 1,181 ft. While dogs (and even a cat!) have done the loop, check in with any younger family members and people with mobility concerns before setting out to do the whole trip.

Lusk Creek Trail is a popular spot for a day hike, but it is also a trail some backpackers take two days to conquer. However long you are choosing to spend on the trail, be thoughtful about what you are leaving behind.

The Lusk Creek Trail Loop overlaps with several trails like trail #457, River to River Trail and Secret Canyon Loop. Frequently check your map and look out for signage as it can be easy to wander off the trail while looking at the beautiful scenery.

For the most part, the trail has a lot of rocks and roots to navigate.

A small stretch of the trail is paved in gravel and lined with trees. To me, this seems like the perfect spot to stop and refuel with with some trail mix.

The geological formations throughout Lusk Creek Loop Trail are incredible.

While Illinois has been ranked the second flattest state in the United States, we still have an incredible amount of geological diversity.

While some features are marked by signs, others you will have to look out for.

A highlight of the loop trail is the sound of bubbling creeks and tiny waterfalls coming from the distance. The waterfalls are, of course, dependent on recent rainfall, so there is no guarantee they will be running.

The hidden waterfalls dotted along Secret Canyon have a serene quality to them.

There are several waterfalls cascading down rock ledges along the trail. Some waterfalls, such as Secret Canyon Crevice Waterfall, have names while others do not.

Eagle-eyed hikers might be able to spot additional waterfalls if they follow along the creek.

Hikers who have taken the trail recommend preparing to walk through the creek. Don't compromise on your hiking boots, and think about bringing some extra socks for the ride back home.

Hiking Lusk Creek Loop will have you traversing creeks and leaping on rocks.

This loop trail has adventure written all over it. Throw in some off-the-beaten-track waterfalls, and Lusk Creek Loop really has it all.

The Lusk Creek Loop trail is a worthwhile trip for nature lovers wanting to spend a whole day outdoors. If you'd rather take a shorter trip with a higher likelihood of seeing a waterfall, consider taking this two-mile trail to Ferne Clyffe Waterfall instead. If you are worried you might get wet feet on any of these trails, coat your hiking boots with this waterproofing spray from REI beforehand. Have you conquered the Lusk Creek Loop Trail? If so, tell us how it was!