Ahead of Schedule!
With the long summer days, a shorter than expected stay at Backbone State Park and as I had not booked a place to stay for the evening, I just drove east to see if I could get to Charles Mound during daylight hours. I am happy to report that I did make it and now I was ahead of schedule!
Important: Read Before You Go!
If you are going to visit and “summit” Charles Mound, there are some important items to note. Stay updated by checking Highpointers.org, especially since the property has new owners.
From the Highpointers Website:
- Exact Address
- Please go to the owners preferred place of entry at 688 W Charles Mound Rd.
- There is a gate and a sign that you are in the correct place.
- Visiting Days
- The 2024 open dates: June 1-2 | July 6-7 (Hence the timing of my trip) | Aug. 3-4 | Sept. 7-8.
- Please time your visit to occur during daylight hours.
- Respect the Property
- Just a reminder that this is private land, so please be respectful during your visit.
- The owners ask that, as before, you park on the road and walk from there, no vehicles on their lane, and no pets.
- In an nutshell – don’t be “that” person that ends up ruining it for those who wish to add Charles Mound to their list of High Points.
- Thanks!
- We want to once again thank the Wuebbels for the many years of visitation and thank the new owners for continuing to graciously allow access.
- My Advice
- It’s an easy hike, with little elevation change.
- Bring Bug Spray – lots of it! The mosquitoes were relentless at the high point!
- Make sure you check-in, there is a log book at the summit in a plastic bin.
Pictures: The Trailhead | Some reminders, thanks to the Highpointers Organization
A Bit About Charles Mound. . .
Charles Mound, a modest yet captivating peak, holds the title of the highest natural point in Illinois. Located in the rolling hills near the charming town of Scales Mound, this serene summit stands at 1,235 feet above sea level, ranks 45th in State High Points, and was my 28th High Point. The mound itself is named after Elijah Charles, a pioneer who settled in the area in the early 19th century.
Pictures: Summit Selfie | High Point Geomarker
The McRib of Hikes
Hiking Charles Mound reminds me of the McRib, I know a weird analogy. But just as Charles Mound is only accessible a few weekends each year, the McRib appears on McDonald’s menu for limited periods. Highpointers and McRib Enthusiasts eagerly mark their calendars for these rare opportunities, knowing they need to seize the moment or wait an uncertain amount of time for the next chance. In both cases, part of the allure is the knowledge that these opportunities won’t be around for long, making them all the more special than they actually are.
All Joking Aside
The Wuebbels have done an incredible job making this high point special. It’s a beautiful spot – so peaceful and relaxing, albeit the mosquitoes. Trust me, you can’t see it in my photos, but I was practically marinated in bug spray, and those bloodsuckers were still all over my body, head, and face. If it weren’t for them, I’d have taken a seat in one of the chairs to soak in the panoramic views and appreciate Illinois’ natural beauty.
Pictures: Welcome Sign | Sitting Area – The Highpointers Check-In Log is in the Bin
On my way up, I passed a few fellow highpointers but ended up having the “summit” all to myself. Well, me and a million mosquitoes. After snapping a few pics, I decided to do a trail run back to my car—partly to get my daily run in and partly to escape the relentless swarm.
Back at the car, I spotted a pheasant, which was pretty cool. I also had a brief chat with an arriving highpointer who wanted to confirm he was in the right place. I assured him he was and gave him a heads-up about the mosquito gang waiting at the top. He had just tackled Eagle Mountain (Minnesota’s high point) and Mount Arvon (Michigan’s high point)—both of which I’m hitting later this month—and said the bugs were equally ferocious there. I think it’s time to invest in a head net.
A big shout-out to the Wuebbels for their hospitality! Charles Mound is in the books. Next high point: Hawkeye Point, Iowa’s highest natural point.
Date of Visit: 6 July 2024
