DAY HIKES
Illinois Beach State Park
Zion, IL
May 26, 28, 30, 2026
May 26, 28, 30
2-hours
$25.00
Difficulty rating
Miles
Approx 3.5.
Terrain
The first half of the hike will be on a sand/gravel beach, the other half will be on a sand/gravel/dirt path. It is a level path, but walking on sand is more strenuous.
Even though we are on the beach much of the time, we recommend wearing hiking boots, as sand/rocks can get into the sandals. After the hike, we will put our toes in the warm sand!
Illinois Beach State Park is the state’s only remaining beach ridge shoreline. The area’s topography was created by glaciers that advanced and retreated, and steady winds blowing across Lake Michigan. The “Dead River” that we also follow along is a misnomer, and actually very beautiful. This park is well worth the drive for the views, wildlife, and the joy of finding smooth stones to skip across the lake. This hike brings the joy of Lake Michigan’s rolling waves and dunes without the crowds! We also hike inland through the oak savannah’s while looking for wildflowers and prickly pear cacti.
Washroom
Outhouse at the parking lot.
What to Bring
Water
Sunglasses/sunscree
Rainwear as needed
Sturdy hiking shoes/boots
Dress in layers for comfort
A hiking stick is helpful. I have loaners if desired
Emergency Medical Information form filled out (this is kept in your backpack, and only accessed in emergencies)
Sack lunch for an after-hike picnic
Lunch Optional
Bring a sack lunch. We will eat on the deck near the visitor center, so you can leave your lunch in the car. 12:00-1:00.
Times
We meet by 9:50 am and begin our hike at 10:00 am to noon. As a courtesy to all women, please arrive early, as we will begin promptly and not wait for latecomers.
Let’s Fully Savor the Outdoor Serenity
We ask you kindly to silence your phones and keep conversations positive.
During the hike, there will be a 15-minute section of the trail that is a silent walk, so that each person can more fully appreciate the sounds of nature.
Weather
We have fun in all kinds of weather, so we rarely postpone. If we do cancel a hike, you will receive an email before 8am the morning of the hike.
You Will Learn
We will learn about the history of this area, the dunes and Dead River, the nuclear power plant, the unique flora, and about the mink.
Driving Directions
Illinois Beach State Park:
38600 Illinois Beach State Park, Zion, IL.
Head to the Nature Center parking lot, 1.2 miles pass the railroad tracks, turn right before you come to the hotel.
Illinois Beach State Park
Phone: 217-782-6302
Web: dnr.illinois.gov
Discussion Starter Question
“From there to here, from here to there, funny things are everywhere.”
—Dr. Seuss
Guides
Kari, aka “Lucky Duck”
Cancellations
If you desire to cancel your day hike, you can reschedule for a different hike within the same season:
Please email hello@trailboundtrip.com, and state your name, and desired new hike day.
You will receive confirmation for this new day hike if there is room on the trip.
Refunds
Refunds are given when Trailbound Trips cancels a hike. Trailbound Trips will cancel and refund a hike for two reasons:
There needs to be a minimum of three people. You will be notified 24 hours in advance if this is the case.
The weather is dangerous, ie. lightning or a major storm. You will be notified before 8 a.m. on the day of the hike.