Jutting unexpectedly out of bottomland farms, a spine of limestone bluffs walls out of the lowland farms of the Mississippi river valley in Illinois. The most majestic of these bluffs have been turned into a great hiking trail with lots of scenic views.

Highlights

  • Lots of great scenic views of the Mississippi River valley from high up on the bluffs
  • Fascinating to see the giant holes from its history as a mine.
  • Helpful moles
  • A unique experience that is very different from most Missouri hikes but not much further away

Lowlights

  • Can be quite muddy so best to avoid this after lots of rain
  • Quite steep in spots, particularly right at the beginning. Not a great hike those weak in the heart or knees.

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This 594-acre reserve in Monroe County offers 5 miles of trails. The 1.8 mile Salt Lick trail is the most spectacular, quickly rising above the surrounding lowland farms to one of the highest points in Monroe County (810-feet), it provides stunning views of the Mississippi River valley.

In all, there are three trails that form a couple different loops that let you pick your preferred distance and terrain. The Johnson Trail offers an easy 1.3 mile hike along the base of the bluff; the Salt Lick Point Trail is a 1.8 loop that provides beautiful views across the Mississippi River flood plain but is quite steep and ends with a trek along a road to get back to your car. The 1.9 mile Newman Trail connects to both the Johnson and Salt Lick Point Trails.

Trail was a bit of a muddy mess in spots
The trail starts with a long steep climb
The limestone bluffs from below

History

Salt Lick Point is named for the salt wells of the area; salt production was one of the first major industries in the area.