The best walks and hikes in Jersey County
4.7
(4)
91
hikers
9
hikes
Hiking in Jersey County, Illinois, offers routes primarily along the Mississippi River and through areas with varied elevation. The region features trails that provide views of the river and access to natural areas. While not explicitly detailed in the provided data, the presence of a "peak" and "wildlife refuge" suggests a mix of riverine and possibly forested or open landscapes.
Best hiking trails in Jersey County
- The most popular hiking route is Sam Vadalabene Trail — Alton, a 4.0…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
15
hikers
3.33km
00:59
100m
100m
Embark on an easy hike along the Goat Cliff Trail, a 2.1-mile (3.3 km) route that takes you through varied terrain, including older forests and rocky outcroppings. You will gain…
9.64km
02:27
30m
30m
Hike the moderate 6.0-mile Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail from Pere Marquette to Grafton, enjoying river views and limestone bluffs.
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1.53km
00:25
0m
50m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile F.E. Widman Trail in Godfrey, Illinois, a paved path connecting local parks with gentle elevation changes.
6.37km
01:37
10m
10m
Hike the easy 4.0-mile Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail, gaining 34 feet in 1 hour and 36 minutes, offering scenic river views.
5.0
(1)
23
hikers
8.03km
02:22
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Jersey County
Tips from the Community
The Piasa Bird is a creature from Native American mythology that was painted on the cliffside above the Mississippi River. The original depiction of the Piasa Bird no longer exists, so this is a 20th century recreation that sits several hundred yards from where the original image was found.
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The Sam Vadalabene Trail is a 20 mile paved trail from Grafton to Alton. The trail follows along the Mississippi and gives you great views of the river. The trail also connects several parks and you pass through several communities, so you have multiple choice for spots for a break.
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McAdams Peak is a great lookout point in Pere Marquette State Park. Though it only sits at 828 feet, 252 meters meters tall, hikers can overlook Lower Stump Lake and the Illinois River, and a section of the Missouri River called Swan Lake. Visitors can look further into the Mark Twain National Wildlife Refugee.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Jersey County?
Jersey County offers a selection of hiking routes, with komoot currently featuring 7 distinct trails. These range from easy riverside paths to moderate loops with some elevation gain.
What is the general difficulty level of hiking trails in Jersey County?
The trails in Jersey County cater to various abilities. Most routes are classified as easy, with 5 out of 7 trails falling into this category. There are also 2 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Jersey County?
Yes, Jersey County features several circular routes. For example, the McAdams Peak loop from Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge is a moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) path offering elevation and views. Another option is the View of the Mississippi River loop from Alton, an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trail.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes in Jersey County?
Hiking in Jersey County is largely defined by views of the Mississippi River and natural refuge areas. Trails like the View of the Mississippi River loop from Alton specifically highlight river vistas. The McAdams Peak loop also offers scenic viewpoints.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly hiking routes in Jersey County?
Absolutely. Many trails in Jersey County are suitable for beginners. The Sam Vadalabene Trail — Alton is an easy 4.0-mile (6.4 km) paved path, perfect for a relaxed walk. Another easy option is the Godfrey Splash Pad loop from Lewis and Clark Community College.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Jersey County?
The hiking routes in Jersey County are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 3 reviews. Hikers often praise the river views and the varied terrain that offers options for different skill levels.
Are there any trails that start from a wildlife refuge?
Yes, the McAdams Peak loop from Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge begins directly from a wildlife refuge, offering a unique starting point for a moderate hike.
What is the longest moderate trail available in Jersey County?
The longest moderate trail is the McAdams Peak loop from Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge, which spans 5.0 miles (8.0 km) and includes significant elevation gain.
What is the shortest easy trail in Jersey County?
The Godfrey Splash Pad loop from Lewis and Clark Community College is one of the shorter easy trails, covering 3.8 km (2.4 miles).
Are there any paved trails suitable for various activities in Jersey County?
Yes, the Sam Vadalabene Trail — Alton is a 4.0-mile (6.4 km) paved path, making it suitable for hiking, cycling, and other activities.
What are the typical elevations encountered on Jersey County trails?
Elevation changes vary across Jersey County trails. Easy routes like the Sam Vadalabene Trail have minimal elevation gain (around 10 meters). More challenging moderate loops, such as the McAdams Peak loop, can feature significant climbs, with over 239 meters of ascent.
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