Romp through Secret Canyon, wade in the cool pools of Lusk Creek and her tributaries, and stand high atop the state overlooking the forest. With hundreds of miles of trails throughout the forest, we might be short on time to see it all, but the good news is we’ve got an open invitation to return.

Trip Itinerary: Hiking will be moderate with segments of challenging ascents and descents. With so many trails and options, the route will always vary and be at the discretion of the guide. Expect a daily range of 4-8 miles with the potential for creek crossings, sweeping landscapes and utter amazement that you’re still in Illinois.

This trip is rated moderate hiking with some strenuous sections of inclines, declines and water crossings. All part of the adventure!

Itinerary is subject to change based on weather, guide discretion and group comfort.

This is a 4 day, 3 night trip

Deploy: Lace 'em up for our 6:15 a.m Friday departure from Osmium Coffee, 1117 W Belmont in Chicago. The van (the Blue Whale) leaves at a prompt 6:30 a.m.

Embark: The quest for discovery and solitude will commence at approx: 1:00 p.m.

Return: The Blue Whale awaits to steer us home on Monday. Chicago ETA: 4:00 p.m.

Cost: $550/person

Lusk Creek Wilderness

This is one of our favorite places to explore, and with reason because you won’t believe this is still Illinois. Talk to the locals and they’ll point you to the Lusk Creek. In fact, it takes an act of Congress to designate a wilderness area so you can count on this section of the Shawnee to be especially enchanting. With a Wilderness designation, the Lusk Creek area will remain wild and free where humans are but temporary visitors.

The rugged terrain of the Shawnee is a living piece of natural history - it’s where the glaciers ceased their pulverizing of the continent. The Lusk Creek Wilderness is home to some of the cleanest streams in the Midwest, towering bluffs and hunky boulders that beg for exploration.