Illinois: Charles Mound

1,235 ft (376 m)

Of all the state highpoints located on private land, Charles Mound is one of the few accessible only on select weekends each year by the generous permission of the landowners. This one sits in the far northwestern corner of Illinois, just a few miles from the Wisconsin border, surrounded by the gentle farmland of the Driftless Area.

Reaching this Midwestern rise involves a pleasant 1.5-mile walk up a gravel driveway through rolling pastures and open fields. At just 1,235 feet, it’s the lowest highpoint in the region—but the wide view and quiet setting still make it feel special.

Obviously there’s no technical challenge here, but getting the timing right is important for anyone planning this trip.

More to come…