Charles Mound

Mountain peak · Scales Mound

1

@atlasobscura

"While the highest natural points of many US states are in parks or other protected areas, the highest point in Illinois is at the top of a family’s driveway. At 1,235 feet above sea level, Charles Mound is the highest elevation one can reach in the state of Illinois. The northwest corner of the state is in a unique geological region called the “Driftless Area,” in which the land was not covered by glaciers during the last Ice Age. The resulting area is a uniquely eroded plateau cut with deep river valleys. The owners of Charles Mound, Wayne and Jean Wuebbels, graciously allow access to interested visitors on the first full weekends of the summer months and Labor Day weekend, only (not including Labor Day itself). All other requests will be denied. These dates are posted at the Highpointers’ Club website. The Wuebbels ask that visitors follow these three rules while on their property: 1. Come during daylight hours on the specified dates; 2. No parking up the driveway - please leave vehicles near the gate and walk the 1.2 miles on the driveway to the marker area, and please do not crowd the road as farm equipment may need to pass; and 3. They can’t accommodate pets. At the summit, the Wuebbels have a marker for the benchmark and chairs so visitors can take in the views of Illinois farm country. They have welcomed guests from all over the world at the top of their humble, if long, driveway." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

The Highest Places in America
thomasharper (Atlas Obscura User)

Scales Mound Township, IL 61075 Get directions

1 Postcard

See full details

More Places For You

Kitchen 17

Vegan restaurant · Avondale

A cozy Avondale vegan eatery, Kitchen 17 whips up delightful deep-dish pizzas, burgers, and comfort food staples, all in a fun, relaxed vibe.

11 Postcards

Music Box Theatre

Movie theater · Lakeview

Step into the charming Music Box Theatre, a vintage gem from 1929 showcasing a mix of indie and classic films, complete with organ serenades and a cozy lounge.

7 Postcards

Lem's Bar-B-Q

Barbecue restaurant · Chatham

This iconic, no-frills gem on 75th Street serves up the best of Chicago's barbecue, featuring succulent rib tips slathered in tangy sauce till the wee hours.

25 Postcards

Portillo's Skokie

Fast food restaurant · Skokie

Portillo's serves up Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches in a retro-chic spot, perfect for a casual bite and that famous cake shake.

13 Postcards

Pretty Cool Ice Cream

Ice cream shop · Logan Square

Nestled in Logan Square, Pretty Cool Ice Cream serves up a playful array of inventive popsicles and custard bars that delight kids and adults alike with flavors like peanut butter potato chip and Thai tea, all in a vibrant, family-friendly spot.

22 Postcards

Bianca's Burgers

Hamburger restaurant · Humboldt Park

Bianca’s Burgers is a cozy, family-owned gem in Chicago crafting mouthwatering burgers and more, all served with top-notch, friendly service.

4 Postcards

Mirra

Restaurant · Bucktown

Mirra offers a cozy spot in Chicago where innovative Mexican-Indian fusion dazzles your taste buds amidst a warm atmosphere and stellar service.

13 Postcards

SUNNYGUN

American restaurant · Fulton River District

Saint Lou’s Assembly in the West Loop serves up nostalgic comfort food in a lively, dog-friendly patio space perfect for casual hangouts with friends.

25 Postcards

B'el Bar + Kitchen

Restaurant · Avondale

B'el Bar + Kitchen is a cozy haven for Midwestern comfort food lovers, featuring friendly service, crafted cocktails, and a charming, artsy vibe.

2 Postcards

Owen & Engine

British restaurant · Avondale

Creative British pub food plus a big beer selection & a fireplace amid leather, wood & wallpaper.

19 Postcards