Canal History and Modern Trails
The Illinois and Michigan Canal is 96 miles long, was dug by hand, and opened in 1848. The Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area continues to serve as a transportation and recreation route. The I&M Canal State Trail runs through the Heritage Area: 61.5 miles from Rockdale to LaSalle. The trail is part of the Grand Illinois Trail. The two figures therefore refer to different things—the length of the historic canal and the length of the trail. This distinction helps separate the waterway’s history from its use as a trail today.
In LaSalle, the I&M Canal Visitor Center features exhibits on canal history and a map table where you can plan visits. If you plan to visit, check current operating details before you arrive. The LaSalle County Historical Society’s Museum Campus is located along the historic I&M Canal in the Village of North Utica. Each offers a distinct focus: the Visitor Center centers on canal history, while the campus is also situated along the historic canal.
Canyons, Trails and Water
At Starved Rock State Park, glacial meltwater formed 18 sandstone canyons. The geological formation is part of the park’s tangible natural experience: the number of canyons and their sandstone show how water shaped the landscape. Matthiessen State Park offers another perspective, with a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Matthiessen offers a range of trails. There are five miles of well-marked, paved hiking trails and six miles of cross-country ski trails. Hiking on paved trails and cross-country skiing on designated trails are two distinct ways to experience the park.
Buffalo Rock State Park covers 298 acres and sits on a bluff along the north bank of the Illinois River. The bluff was once an island. LaSalle Lake offers another side of the landscape: the man-made lake covers 2,058 acres and is popular with anglers. Shore fishing is possible there without a boat; Ivy Point has a fishing pier for people with disabilities. Check conditions before your visit.
Architecture, Collections and History
Reddick Mansion is an Italianate-style mansion built in 1855, with 22 rooms and restored interiors. Its architecture and preserved rooms offer a different historical perspective from canal history. The Ottawa Historical & Scouting Heritage Museum focuses on the traditions of Boy Scouting, Girl Scouting and Camp Fire.
The Westclox Museum in Peru is located in part of the historic Westclox building. Its collections include Westclox products, documents, photographs, antiques and materials on the company’s history. In Streator, Weber House & Garden features storybook, or Tudor, architecture and English-style gardens. Together, these sites offer insights ranging from industrial and organizational history to architecture and gardens.
Another offering is the historic walking tour “Mendota's Past Around Every Corner,” which explores historic buildings and areas in Mendota. Since its availability may change, check before your visit to see whether the program is being offered. Events also offer a distinct way to experience regional history: the LaSalle County Historical Society hosts the annual Burgoo Festival, whose dates vary. The society also hosts Wild Bill Hickok Days. Check event dates if you’re planning your trip around them.
Discover more destinations: Streator, Oglesby, Ottawa, Mendota, Peru, Utica, LaSalle, Grand Ridge.
For the broader travel overview: Illinois.
