LaRue Pine Hills & Inspiration Point
Inspiration Point Trail & Pine Hills Road, Wolf Lake, IL 62998
Bird & Eagle Watching
LaRue-Pine Hills is one of the most unique areas in the world. As with many places in the Shawnee National Forest, the beauty we see today is rooted in geologic history. Scenic drives, hiking and camping are available.
The massive bluffs extending roughly 5 miles near State Route 3 are very impressive. Popular with hunters in the spring and fall, the campground is also ideal for those who like to view nature, go birding, hike or take a scenic drive. Pine Hills Road leads to the top of the bluffs and features panoramic views of the LaRue Swamp and Mississippi River floodplain.
Inspiration Point Trail is a 0.7 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Wolf Lake, Illinois.
The Inspiration Point Trail offers a panoramic view of the Mississippi River valley and the Big Muddy bottomlands and is well worth the climb. The 300-foot drop, seven feet to the left of the path, however, assures this is no regular hiking trail. More than 1200 species of plants and animals make LaRue Pines Hills their home.
Inspiration Trail has two beginning points, McCann Springs and Pine Hills Road. Starting at the lower north end of the bluff is McCann Springs, which involves a moderately difficult hike.
