ラサール郡の天然記念物・トップ12

Excellent View

A beautiful view, but the number of locks is still very limited today

Wildcat Canyon is one of the most impressive and popular canyons in Starved Rock State Park. It is known for: • The highest waterfall in the park: approximately 70 feet (21 meters) high • The deepest canyon: up to 90 feet (27 meters) deep • Two overlooks at the top of the canyon

According to local legend, the Ottawa leader Pontiac was assassinated by a Peoria warrior in 1769. • In retaliation, the Ottawa and Potawatomi besieged a group of Illiniwek (Illinois Confederacy) entrenched on the rock. • The besieged starved to death, and thus the rock became known as "Starved Rock."

View onto the Illinois River dam from the top of starved rock

Lake Falls is the uppermost waterfall in Matthiessen State Park and is fed by Lake Matthiessen, which lies just above the falls. It has a height of about 25 feet.

Lover's Leap Overlook lies at the loop of the same name and offers nice views of the Illinois River. Furthermore, you can see 'Lover's Leap' that relates to two lovers from different tribes who couldn't be a couple and therefore decided to jump off one of the cliffs together.

If you arrived at the Visitor Center of Starved Rock State Park, French Canyon will be the closest canyon and therefore the shortest hike you can do. Thanks to its shortness, it's the perfect walk for families and inexperienced hikers. But be aware, that you'll be climbing a lot of stairs.