Climbing Near Palmer, Illinois

This main staircase has 3 levels and tall brick retaining walls on the front of each level. The bricks all stick out ~1 inch from the mortar and it's very easy to climb up and down anywhere along the wall as well as traversed side to side, or climbed in succession! These walls are shaded for most of the day and the air is cooled by the river making for good grip. Do be gentle and avoid using chalk.This park has a beautiful trail going up and down the riverside and into the forest around the staircase as well, definitely worth exploring while you're there!(Note: there are 4 walls but the 4th and top-most wall is not in suitable condition for climbing with it's flaky bricks and steep grass runout) Proceed along the signs to the bluff area where there is limited parking available (maybe 4-6 spots on dirt). Then make your way down to the bottom of the staircase to view all 3 levels of retaining wall.

The main staircase has 3 levels and tall brick retaining walls on the front of each level. The bricks all stick out ~1 inch from the mortar and it's very easy to climb up and down anywhere along the wall as well as traversed side to side, or climbed in succession! These walls are shaded for most of the day and the air is cooled by the river making for good grip. Do be gentle and avoid using chalk.This park has a beautiful trail going up and down the riverside and into the forest around the staircase as well, definitely worth exploring while you're there!(Note: there are 4 walls but the 4th and top-most wall is not in suitable condition for climbing with it's flaky bricks and steep grass runout) Drive to the Entrance Gate and politely wait for the Park Officer to come jot down your Name and License Plate before entering. Then proceed along the signs to the bluff area where there is limited parking available (maybe 4-6 spots on dirt).