Matthiessen State Park offers relatively easy hiking trails on which to see canyons, waterfalls, and beautiful vistas. The Upper Dells is most popular with visitors, though the Lower Dells is just as nice, and often less congested. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way.

Matthiessen State Park is located near Starved Rock State Park, the latter of which is most popular. Both parks are in Utica, Illinois, about an hour from Chicago.