Fall Drive Through Illinois Features All The Autumn Foliage

The best way to see the fall foliage in Illinois is to take a fall drive through the state and witness it all. In just under two hours, you can go on a scenic and memorable road trip that will take you to four of the state’s best outdoor attractions. Check it out:

Hitting up these popular outdoor attractions in northwest Illinois will take you on a 77-mile journey that lasts about two hours, especially if you take your time driving by the Mississippi River and through the hills along the way.

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The first stop, if you choose to take one on this fall drive, is Long Hollow Scenic Overlook in the town of Elizabeth. It is situated along a portion of the Great River Road and features excellent views of the rolling countryside as well as picnic tables, shelters, and restrooms.

Google/Victoria Rasmussen

Drive about 16 miles south to Savanna and you’ll find the Mississippi Palisades State Park, which spans 2,500 acres.

flickr/Phil Roeder

It is situated near the confluence of the Mississippi and Apple rivers and is recognized for its unique natural attractions such as its cliffs and other rock formations.

Google/Ajesh Elayidom

If you’re looking for a place to get out and stretch your legs on this two-hour fall drive, this would be an excellent place to do it as there are a plethora of trails all around.

Google/Murali Krishnan Nair

The next stop is about 53 miles away and is located in the town of Oregon. The Black Hawk Statue, also known as the Eternal Indian, sits on a 77-foot-tall bluff top, is 48 feet tall, and was created in the early 1900s.

flickr/EarlRShumaker

Surrounding this statue is the Lowden State Park, and even further beyond is the entire Lowden-Miller Forest, which comprises 2,291 acres of gorgeous scenery that is looking lovely this time of year.

Google/Jaime hersh-white

Tucked away within the Rock River Valley, this popular area is also known for its giant rock bluffs as well as its ancient trees, fun trails, and other natural wonders.

Google/Joe Blow

For more like this, check out the 10 most scenic drives in Illinois that will take your breath away.