Overview
Little Grand Canyon earns its name. The sandstone canyon near Murphysboro, in the Hidden Springs Ranger District of Shawnee National Forest, drops up to 300 feet below the surrounding terrain and creates a microclimate cool and moist enough to support plant communities more typically associated with the Appalachian Mountains than the Midwest. The 6-mile loop that explores this canyon is the most demanding and most rewarding hike in the forest, combining rim-top views with a descent into the canyon floor.
The canyon was carved by Poplar Creek over millions of years, cutting through the sandstone and exposing the geological layers that tell the story of this ancient seafloor. The walls are steep and dramatic by Illinois standards, streaked with iron staining and hung with moss and fern in the wetter sections. After significant rain, a waterfall drops over the head of the canyon from a notch in the sandstone rim. In spring, the waterfall is reliable and makes the 6-mile effort particularly rewarding.
The rare plant communities here are a legitimate draw for botanists and naturalists. Plants typically found far to the east Appalachian species that found suitable microhabitat in this anomalous canyon grow alongside more typical Ozark and bottomland species. The canyon has been recognized by ecologists as one of the most biodiverse sites in Illinois.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: From the county road trailhead, the loop starts on the rim and follows it south with intermittent views down into the canyon. The rim trail is mostly open and dry, with oak and hickory woodland.
Miles 1.5 to 3: The trail descends into the canyon at the south end via a steep, rocky route requiring careful footing. The canyon floor is dramatically different from the rim: cool, dark, wet. The sandstone walls rise on both sides. The waterfall is visible at the upper end of the canyon from this section in spring and after rain.
Miles 3 to 5: The canyon floor section follows Poplar Creek upstream through the most scenic terrain on the loop. Rocky scrambling is required in places. The canyon narrows and the walls close in around the midpoint.
Miles 5 to 6: The trail climbs steeply out of the canyon at the north end and returns to the trailhead.
When to Visit
April through June and September through November are the best windows. Spring offers the best waterfall viewing and exceptional wildflowers in the canyon. Fall color on the rim is good in mid-October. Summer is hot above the rim, though the canyon floor stays notably cooler.
This trail requires more caution after rain the canyon floor can be slippery and creek crossings run higher. Check conditions before visiting.
What to Bring
- Many hikers carry 1.5-2 liters of water. No sources on the trail. Individual needs vary, and summer heat above the rim increases requirements.
- Hiking boots with ankle support and good grip for the rocky canyon floor
- Tick repellent from April through October
- Trekking poles for the steep descent and canyon scrambling
- Gaiters or quick-drying footwear if the creek is running
Practical Details
A vault toilet at the trailhead. No fee for trail use (as of 2026). No camping at the trailhead the nearest campground is Pine Ridge. Follow Leave No Trace principles. Copperheads are present in the canyon; watch footing carefully on rocks.
See the national forests vs. national parks guide for context on national forest access and use rules.
Getting There
From Murphysboro, Illinois, take State Highway 149 west to County Road 14. Turn south and follow signs to the Little Grand Canyon trailhead. Murphysboro is in Jackson County on State Highway 149, approximately 7 miles west of Carbondale. GPS coordinates are approximately 37.62°N, 89.40°W.