Last Updated on September 3, 2025
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois is known for its scenic canyons and seasonal waterfalls – but if you visit in the heat of summer you might be surprised to find most of those waterfalls have dried up. That is, except for St. Louis Canyon.
We’ve been to Starved Rock three times – always in July – and St. Louis Canyon has been flowing every single time. It’s the only Starved Rock waterfall that is spring-fed, so it seems to have at least a thin flow of water flowing throughout the summer.
If you’re short on time or looking for an easy, rewarding trail, this one should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the best short Starved Rock hikes, and it leads to what just might be the most reliable Starved Rock waterfall in the park.
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Why Hike to St. Louis Canyon
With its dramatic sandstone walls, lush greenery, and shaded path, St. Louis Canyon feels tucked away from the crowds – despite being one of the closest trails to the Visitor Center.
The canyon ends at a 40-ft waterfall that often flows even when others in the park don’t. That alone makes it one of the best Starved Rock trails, especially during the warmer months.
St. Louis Canyon Parking
The hike starts from the designated St. Louis Canyon parking lot, located just west of the main park entrance off IL-178. This is not the big, main Starved Rock parking lot near the Visitor Center.
This lot is small, with space for roughly 20-25 cars. It can fill quickly, especially on weekends or during peak summer afternoons.
If the lot is full, you’ll need to park at the visitor center lot and take the connecting trail to St. Louis Canyon (this adds distance but gives you a chance to see more of the park.)
Arriving before 10 a.m. is your best bet for snagging a spot.
Note that the parking lot doesn’t have restrooms.
Trail Overview
- Trail Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Surface: Dirt and sand, with a few uneven areas and some wood steps and bridge
- Family-Friendly: Yes!
From the parking area, the trail winds through shaded woods and along a creek bed. The shade makes it bearable even on a humid July afternoon. You’ll maneuver up and down some wooden stairs and over a bridge.
As you get closer to the canyon, the path narrows and the temperature drops. When you reach the destination, you’re surrounded by towering rock walls – like a sandstone amphitheater – with the St. Louis Canyon waterfall tumbling from above. The light mist is refreshing on a hot day.
You can walk behind the waterfall for a unique view – just be careful of slippery rocks. Being surrounded by high rock walls and the steady sound of falling water, it’s a place worth taking your time to enjoy.
Tips for Visiting St. Louis Canyon
- Go early if you want to avoid crowds – this is a popular spot once the day heats up.
- Wear sturdy shoes – some parts of the trail can be muddy or sandy, depending on recent rainfall.
- Follow park rules – swimming isn’t allowed, and climbing on wet rocks can be dangerous.
- Bring a camera or phone – this spot is one of the most photogenic areas in the entire park. In fact, put your phone camera settings on .5 to create a fishbowl effect of the entire waterfall and canyon.
When to Visit for the Waterfall
Spring is typically the best time for Starved Rock waterfalls, but St. Louis Canyon often holds out longer than others. Even in mid-summer, it was the only fall we saw still flowing.
If you’re visiting during a dry stretch and still want to see water, this waterfall is your best bet – although not a guarantee.
Another Fun Thing to Do Near Starved Rock
If you want to make a day of it, pair this hike with something completely different – like kayaking the Illinois River!
We rented kayaks from Kayak Starved Rock, just outside the park. Paddling past sandstone cliffs from the water gave the park a whole new perspective. It’s a fun and relaxing contrast to hiking, and one of our favorite things to do near Starved Rock.
Read more about our experience here: Kayaking the Illinois River: A Unique Way to See Starved Rock.
Why St. Louis Canyon Should Be On Your Starved Rock Itinerary
If you’re visiting in summer and don’t have time to do all the Starved Rock hikes, make St. Louis Canyon your one must-do trail. It’s short, scenic, shaded – and best of all, it still delivers the classic waterfall view when others don’t.
Have you visited Starved Rock State Park? Do you agree St. Louis Canyon is Starved Rock’s most dependable waterfall? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
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