Matthiessen State Park - Lake Falls
Virtual Rewards 4.0
Welcome to Matthiessen State Park. This place is a favorite of ours. We enjoy the hike to the falls very much and hope you enjoy it too.
Hiking to Lake Falls in Matthiessen State Park is an enchanting journey through some of Illinois' most picturesque landscapes. The trail winds through the Upper Dells, where hikers are treated to the sight of lush vegetation, dramatic rock formations, and the cascading waters of Giants Bathtub. As you approach Lake Falls, the sound of falling water grows louder, inviting you into a tranquil oasis. The beauty of Lake Falls, topped by the foot bridge high above, crossing in front of the falls, is a captivating sight. This hike not only offers a moderate physical challenge but also a rewarding adventure.
Here are some key points to know about the hike:
Trail Information
- Trailhead: The hike to Lake Falls typically starts at the Dells Area parking lot.
- Distance: The round trip from this trailhead is about 3-4 miles, depending on the specific trails taken.
- Terrain: The terrain includes dirt paths, wooden bridges, and stone steps. Expect some steep inclines and descents, as well as, wading and/or water crossings (which can vary depending upon the season or weather.)
- Difficulty: The trail is considered moderate. While not extremely strenuous, it involves uneven surfaces and climbing/flights of stairs.
Highlights
- Scenic Views: The trail winds through lush forests, over and alongside streams, and features dramatic sandstone cliffs.
- Lake Falls: The waterfall itself is a picturesque cascade, particularly impressive after heavy rain.
- Wildlife and Flora: The park is home to diverse plant life and wildlife, including wildflowers in the spring and a variety of birds and amphibians in the canyon.
Logging Requirement - Post a photo from the base (bottom) of the waterfall with your geocaching name and the date on a piece of paper. You can be in the photo if you want but you don't have to be. You may instead include a personal item such as your GPS or a signature item if you choose not to be in the photo. You must visit the coordinates to get credit for finding this cache.
Virtual Rewards 4.0 - 2024-2025
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between January 17, 2024 and January 17, 2025. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 4.0 on the Geocaching Blog.