Little Grand Canyon Video Guide
We recently took a trip to Little Grand Canyon and hiked the 3.5-mile loop trail, which features amazing scenic overlooks, tall bluffs, and waterfalls. When we went, it was dry, so there were no waterfalls. However, it’s also safer when it’s dry, as you have to hike down a waterfall cascade to complete the loop.
What You’ll See at the Little Grand Canyon
There is a lot to see while hiking at the Little Grand Canyon in the Shawnee National Forest in such a few short miles.
- The Chalk Bluff overlook lets you see the vast National Forest and Big Muddy River basin, as well as Fountain Bluff at a distance.
- There are numerous waterfalls in the area when it is wet, but hiking can be quite dangerous since you have to walk down a waterfall cascade on slippery rocks.
- There are very tall bluffs featuring interesting natural windows, rock formations, and erosion in the rocks.
Quick Facts About the Little Grand Canyon
Trail Name: Little Grand Canyon
Distance: 3.5 miles, true loop
Time: 3 hours
Difficulty: Rugged
Parking: Google Maps Link
Pro Tip for Hiking the Little Grand Canyon
Hike the trail clockwise by starting at the trail entrance near the vault restroom. This is the easiest way to the overlook if you don’t want to do the entire trail. However, it’s also the easiest way to hike the entire trail if you’d like to cut off some of the hill climbing on the way back from your hike when you’re the most tired. If you want a workout, go counterclockwise.
Related Guides for the Little Grand Canyon
- Little Grand Canyon Guide by Hiking with Shawn
Before You Go…
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Please let me know in the comments what you thought of this video and the area we explored.

Shawn Gossman
Founder, Hiking with Shawn
Howdy folks! My name is Shawn Gossman and I founded Hiking with Shawn. I’m an avid hiker, cyclist and outdoorsman here in the Shawnee National Forest. I was born and raised in Southern Illinois and never want to leave. Click here to learn more about Shawn Gossman
