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Burden Falls: A Guide to One of Southern Illinois' Hidden Gems

  • Writer: Moose's Golden Tails
    Moose's Golden Tails
  • 13 minutes ago
  • 2 min read

If you're looking for a beautiful waterfall hike that doesn't require a long trek, Burden Falls is a great little adventure in Southern Illinois. Tucked away in the Shawnee National Forest, Burden Falls is a short 1.5 mile out-and-back hike that leads to a peaceful waterfall surrounded by the forest.


Water cascades down a dark rocky cliff in a wooded forest, with sunlight on bare trees and mossy stone.

I visited in the spring after a good amount of rainfall, which made for a great day to see the falls. The main waterfall was flowing nicely, and the upper falls were flowing as well. I brought Moose along with me, and we had a great time exploring the area. The trail does have a steep, rocky section down to the waterfall along with a creek crossing, but overall, I found it to be a manageable hike.


Sunlit rocky creek in a leafless forest, with a fallen log and moss-covered boulder under a clear blue sky.

Sunlit forest trail winding past tall trees, with a muddy puddle and blue sky overhead.
Nice and easy flat portion of the trail

Small waterfall trickles over mossy rock ledges in a leafless forest, with large boulders and blue sky above.
Rocky section near main falls

Burden Falls at a Glance


Location: Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois

Distance: 1.5 miles round trip

Difficulty: moderate

Waterfall: best after rainfall

Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash

Parking: small parking area

Terrain: natural with some rocky terrain leading down to the falls


Clear creek beneath sandstone overhang in a pine forest under a bright blue sky, with sunlight on rocks and water
Upper Falls

Burden Falls is a short hike, but don't let the mileage fool you. The trail has a steep section leading down to the waterfall, with some rocky terrain along the way. The climb back up was the most challenging part, but overall, I didn't find the hike too difficult. One of the best parts is that you can see the upper falls just a few steps from the parking area before starting the hike down to the main falls.


Golden retriever sits by a small waterfall in a wooded ravine, while a man rests on rocks above in bright sunlight.
Upper Falls
Small waterfall cascades over a mossy rock ledge in a wooded ravine under a clear blue sky.
Lower main falls

Tips for Visiting Burden Falls


  • Go after rainfall. The falls are much more impressive when there has been recent rain.

  • Wear good shoes. The trail is rocky and steep in areas. Be extra careful after rain.

  • Arrive prepared for limited parking. There is a small parking area, so space may be limited on busier days.

  • Don't skip the upper falls. They're located just by the parking area and are an easy addition to your visit.

  • Bring your dog! Burden Falls is a dog-friendly hike, and Moose enjoyed exploring it with me.


Wet golden retriever in a harness stands on a wooded trail, tongue out, with bare trees and sunlit leaves behind.

More to Explore Nearby


Burden Falls makes a great stop as part of a larger Southern Illinois adventure. During the same spring weekend, I also visited Jackson Falls, Bell Smith Springs, and the Dutchman Lake Upper Fall Trail.


Moss-covered boulder in a calm creek reflects leafless trees and blue sky in a quiet winter forest
Bell Smith Springs

If you're planning a trip to the area, I'd definitely recommend adding a few of these spots to your itinerary. There are so many beautiful hikes, waterfalls, and natural areas tucked throughout Southern Illinois that you could easily turn a visit to Burden Falls into a full weekend of exploring.


Final Thoughts


Burden Falls ended up being one of my favorite stops from our Southern Illinois weekend. It's a short hike, but the beautiful waterfalls and peaceful surroundings make it feel well worth the trip. If you're looking for a quick waterfall adventure, I'd definitely add Burden Falls to your list!



 
 
 

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