The Little Grand Canyon in Autumn

I recently paid a visit to the Little Grand Canyon in the Shawnee National Forest. Nothing like the actual Grand Canyon in Arizona, the Little Grand Canyon is a slice of Rivendell right in Southern Illinois.

I went during the peak of fall colors, and a LOT of other people had the same idea. The parking lot was beyond full, so everyone was getting creative with their “parking spaces.” Though the trailhead was busy, I actually hardly encountered anyone while on the trail. 

The three-mile loop first takes you along the rim of the canyon to a gorgeous overlook of the valley and nearby cliffs.

Next, you start the descent, following a very narrow, moss-covered ledge. At one edge of the trail is a drop off to the bottom of the canyon, so watch your step!

You will then find yourself in a stone creek bed that plummets downward, making for a very slippery time, and several waterfalls. There is no graceful way to get to the bottom of the canyon. I had to do a combination of crab-walking and sliding on my butt. 

While you are attempting this awkward descent, take in your lush surroundings. You will find yourself in a bowl with its sides made of dripping moss and waterfalls. This is my favorite place in Southern Illinois.

Once you finally make it to the bottom of the canyon, the trail meanders next to a creek through a quiet forest. 

The gorgeous cliffs paired with the fall foliage made the walk quite sublime. Eventually, you will need to make your way back up out of the canyon. To do this, you have to ascend another slippery creek bed. I find the climb up to be easier than the descent, plus this creek bed is conveniently arranged like a staircase.