The Not-So-Flat Truth About Illinois: Plains, Hills, and Maybe Even a Molehill (But That's a Stretch)
Ah, Illinois. Land of Lincoln, deep dish pizza, and...plains? Well, yes and no. Buckle up, geography enthusiasts (and everyone else who accidentally clicked on this), because we're about to dissect the surprisingly bumpy belly of this great state.
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| What Plains Are In Illinois |
The Main Course: The Central Plains of Illinois
Let's get the obvious out of the way first. Illinois is famous for its Central Plains, a vast expanse of flatness that stretches from the Mississippi River to Indiana like a giant, fertile pancake. This baby was sculpted by glaciers during the Ice Age, who apparently had a thing for minimalism. Cornfields for as far as the eye can see? Check. Rolling hills that might make a hamster reconsider its exercise routine? Nope.
Fun Fact: The Central Plains are so flat, some folks swear you can see the curvature of the Earth on a clear day. (Science says this isn't quite true, but hey, it makes for a good story!)
The Plot Twist: Where'd All the Hills Go?
But wait! Illinois isn't all flat as a board. In the southern tip of the state, you'll find the Shawnee Hills. These guys are the rebels of the Illinois landscape, rising up all dramatic and whatnot. They're not exactly mountains, mind you, but they do provide a welcome change from the endless cornfields.
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
Travel Tip: If you're looking for a scenic hike and a break from the flatness, the Shawnee Hills are your best bet. Just don't expect to find Everest-level challenges.
The molehill that isn't quite a molehill (but we needed a third section)
Okay, Illinois might not have any actual molehills (except for the ones hardworking moles create in your backyard, of course). But hey, a state can dream, right?
Moral of the story: Illinois's landscape is more interesting than it gets credit for. Sure, the Central Plains are flat, but there's beauty in simplicity, right? And the Shawnee Hills add a touch of variety to the whole thing.
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Plains FAQ: Illinois Edition
How to identify a plain in Illinois?
Easy! If you can see your neighbor's house from 10 miles away and it looks like it's levitating, you're probably on a plain.
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How to prepare for a trip to the Illinois plains?
Tip: Every word counts — don’t skip too much.
Sunglasses (for the glare off all that corn), comfortable shoes (for all that walking you won't be doing because it's flat), and a good book (because the scenery might get monotonous after a while).
How to avoid getting lost on the Illinois plains?
Just follow the nearest cornstalk. They all seem to know where they're going.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
How to entertain yourself on the Illinois plains?
Cloud watching is a national pastime for a reason! Plus, you can always try counting all the cornfields. Just be prepared to take a very long nap afterward.
How to appreciate the beauty of the Illinois plains?
Think of it this way: all that flat land means endless possibilities! Build a giant maze! Run a marathon in a straight line! The sky's the limit (almost literally, because there are very few hills to block your view).
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