Stone Face Trail

This is a hike in the wilderness, not a stroll in the park!

Stone Face is north of the small town of Herod. Go North on Illinois Rt 34 to the town of Rudiment. From here, follow the signs to Stone Face Road, about 4 miles from Rudiment. The entrance to Stone Face is Forest Service Road 150 and is about .25 miles long.

From the parking lot, it is about a 1/2 mile hike to Old Stone Face. It's a rugged ascent, turn left at an unmarked junction, and reach a pretty cliff line after 0.2 mile. Go left. Lots of cliff overhangs. Go thru a boulder tunnel.

Stone Face Trail

You can either walk to a trail junction to access the rim trail or shortcut up a rock slide (use caution if it is wet). This rim trail and sandstone glades afford continuous views over the distant countryside as well as views of the bottom of the canyon. Wood fences protect plant species including the rare Chokeberry and Stonecrop. Once past the fences, look for the above unique rock formation resembling a face. Continue on the trail past the utility crossing and notice a place to descend to the bottom (we suggest descending backwards). Now we follow a user-made trail to take in outstanding rock formations and a cliff line that tilts at a 30-degree angle. Continue to the second left turn, and back to the car. The loop is about 1 mile.

Wear appropriate hiking footwear and clothing. Use insect repellent. Carry out everything you carry in. Bring water.