Why Is It Usually Illegal To Climb To Illinois’ Highest Point?

You might not have ever thought about the highest point in Illinois until now. Make sure you check your calendar before you make a trip out to it.

Illinois isn't known for it's change in elevations. You might get some bluffs around some rivers and lakes but for the most park it's just rolling hills (usually of corn.)

There does have to be a highest point in Illinois and it just happens to be in the far northwestern corner of the state in the town of Scales Mound.

Charles Mound, in Scales Mound, is the highest point in Illinois with an elevation of 1,235 feet above sea level.

It's truly unremarkable.

You can walk a gentle sloping hill all the way to the top but beware....

You won't always be welcome.

Charles Mound happens to lie entirely on the property of Wayne and Jean Wuebbels. They have left a note at the bottom of the hill to warn any would be hikers that they are entering private property.

The Wuebbels are not without a heart though. They recognize the unique point of land they happen to own in Illinois and are willing to share it with their fellow residents... a few weekends a year.

The hill is open to visitors during the full weekends of June, July, August, and September, as well as a few other select dates.

It's a nice gesture from the Wuebbels that they didn't have to do. You didn't hear this from me, but legend has it that as long as you're not causing trouble, they usually don't mind a few visitors during the off period.

If you do make it to the top you'll find this geological marker indicating the highest point in Illinois.

You can leave your name in the guest book provided by the hosts.

People from all over the country have visited this humble hill in Illinois.

If you have some time take a seat and relax in the provided chairs. Even if it's not a mountain, this hill affords some one-of-a kind views of Illinois.