The best walks and hikes around Peru

Yes, the region offers several easy hikes perfect for a family outing. A great option is the Matthiessen State Park loop. It's a relatively short walk through a scenic canyon that can be completed in about an hour.

The hiking trails here primarily navigate through state parks, following canyons and creek beds. You can expect well-maintained paths that often include boardwalks, bridges, and staircases to help with the gentle changes in elevation. Many routes lead to beautiful waterfalls and river overlooks.

Absolutely. Waterfalls are a major highlight of hiking in this area. For a trail that features multiple waterfalls along a creek, consider the Lake Falls – Cascade Falls loop from Deer Park. It's a popular choice for its scenic water features.

Yes, many of the popular trails are loops, allowing you to enjoy a varied scenic experience without backtracking. The Cascade Falls loop from Matthiessen State Park is a great example of a shorter circular route that's easy to follow.

For a more substantial hike, the Starved Rock – La Salle Canyon Waterfall loop from Utica is an excellent choice. This 9.5-mile (15.3 km) trail takes around four hours and passes several stunning waterfalls within a canyon landscape, offering a rewarding experience.

This guide highlights a curated selection of the top hikes in the area. While there are nearly 10 designated trails to explore, the guide focuses on the most highly-rated routes to get you started.

The trails are very well-regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful canyon scenery, the numerous waterfalls, and the well-constructed paths with boardwalks and stairs.

Yes, the area is very welcoming to beginners. Most of the routes are rated as easy, with clear paths and manageable distances. A good starting point is the Lake Falls – Cascade Falls loop from Matthiessen State Park, which is short and features lovely scenery.

The terrain is generally gentle with modest elevation changes. Most routes involve less than 500 feet (about 150 meters) of total ascent. The trails use staircases and gradual slopes to navigate the canyon landscapes, making them accessible to most fitness levels.

Spring and autumn are fantastic times to visit, as the weather is pleasant and the waterfalls are often at their most impressive, especially after recent rain. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. The trails can be beautiful in winter, but check conditions for ice on the stairs and paths.