Burden Falls Wilderness

Burden Falls Wilderness is a protected forest area in southern Illinois featuring old-growth hardwood trees and a seasonal waterfall that drops through layered sandstone cliffs. The terrain combines steep ravines, forest cover, and rocky outcroppings that create varied hiking landscapes.

Federal legislation in 1990 designated the area as a protected wilderness, preventing commercial development and logging in the region. This protection allowed the forest ecosystem to recover and remain in its natural state.

The land contains several old cemeteries and abandoned homesteads, reflecting the early settlement patterns of southern Illinois residents.

Access to trails is free and requires no permits for day visitors exploring the forest on foot. The area is open throughout the year, though water flow and trail conditions change seasonally.

The waterfall runs weakly or disappears entirely during dry months but becomes a significant flow after heavy rain. This seasonal variation means each visit offers a different appearance depending on recent weather.

Location: Illinois

Inception: 1990

GPS coordinates: 37.58580,-88.64190

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:07