Get ready for a truly wild adventure on the Illinois River Trail, one of the most spectacular and challenging hikes in Southern Oregon. You'll traverse the rugged and steep canyons of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness, with breathtaking views of the wild river below. The trail offers everything from short, rewarding day hikes to multi-day backpacking expeditions, taking you through areas of old-growth forest and wildflower blooms in the spring and early summer. Be prepared for a strenuous journey if opting for a longer hike, as the path climbs over mountains and through areas recovering from past fires, offering a raw and untouched experience of the region's natural beauty.

The suggested 4 mile hike for this location follows National Forest Road 016 which begins a short distance from the parking lot. This road often has the gate closed to vehicle traffic. A natural turnaround point is roughly 2 miles in as Deer Creek spills out into the Illinois River. In seasons with lower water levels, it may be possible to cross the creek and continue onwards. If you're able to cross safely, consider adding on the Kerby Flat Trail to your hike.