Charles Mound
Illinois
Last Updated 23 Oct 2026
Charles Mound tops out at 1,235 feet, making it Illinois' highest point and 45th among the 50 state highpoints. It sits in the far northwest corner of the state near Galena, less than half a mile from the Wisconsin line. This corner of Illinois escaped the glaciers that flattened most of the Midwest, so instead of prairie you'll find rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and some of the prettiest countryside in the state.
Chicago's Sears Tower reaches higher: it's 1,450 feet tall on ground that sits 583 feet above sea level, putting its roof at 2,033 feet. But a building doesn't count, so Charles Mound keeps the title.
Access Point
Navigate to FQQ6+MQ Scales Mound, Illinois.
No road signs point to Charles Mound, so it's easy to miss. Start from the town of Scales Mound and head northeast on Charles Mound Road for about a mile. After a sharp left followed by a sharp right, watch for the first driveway on the left, which has a metal gate and a small blue sign with the house number 688 (the sign isn't always there). Park outside the gate, then walk about a mile up the gravel driveway to a farmhouse. Keep going past the house on the dirt lane; the highpoint is about a quarter mile farther, on the right.
Recommended Route
Follow the dirt driveway.
Regulations
Charles Mound is on private land, so you can only visit on the owners' open dates: the first full weekend of June, July, August, and September, plus the weekend before Presidents' Day in February. The lane isn't plowed in winter.
The next scheduled access dates are:
The owners don't make exceptions to these dates. Visiting is free, but remember you're a guest on someone's property.
The owners ask you to follow three rules:
- No cars in their lane
- No pets on their property
- No visitors after dark
For any questions, you may email charlesmoundil@gmail.com.
FAQs
How do I get to Charles Mound?
Drive to Scales Mound, then follow Charles Mound Road northeast for about a mile, through a sharp left and a sharp right. Park outside the metal gate at the first driveway on the left and walk about a mile up the driveway, then a quarter mile past the farmhouse, to the top.
Is there a best time of year to visit Charles Mound?
Charles Mound is open to visitors on the first weekends of June, July, August, and September and during Presidents' Day Weekend in February. Checking the weather beforehand is advisable, especially during winter months.
Are there any facilities available at Charles Mound?
There are no public facilities like restrooms or picnic areas at Charles Mound, as it is on private property. Visitors should plan accordingly and ensure they leave no trace of their visit.
Can I bring my pet to Charles Mound?
No, pets are not allowed on the property as per the rules set by the owners.
Is there a fee to visit Charles Mound?
No, there is no fee to visit Charles Mound.
What should I bring when visiting Charles Mound?
Visitors should bring water, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the views.