Illinois Highpoint
Charles Mound
1,235 ft · Scales Mound Township · Driftless Area
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The summit pin marks Charles Mound on private property. The access pin marks the roadside gate where visitors leave vehicles and walk the private lane during designated public-access dates.
USGS-derived Charles Mound summit locationStandard route
Charles Mound private-lane walk
On an authorized access date, park along Charles Mound Road without blocking traffic or the gate, then walk the private farm lane uphill to the marked Illinois highpoint.
Distance
About 2–2.5 mi
Route
Out & back
Difficulty
Easy
Trailhead
Charles Mound Road gate
Typical hazards: Summer heat, thunderstorms, winter snow or ice during the February access period, farm traffic, and uneven gravel.
The highpoint is not open for unrestricted visitation. The walk is permitted only on dates announced by the property owners. Vehicles and pets are not allowed on the private lane.
SummitPost: Charles Mound 2026 access datesAccess
Owner-designated access dates only
Charles Mound is private property. Visitors may enter only during dates specifically opened by the landowners; requests for exceptions should not be treated as permission.
Park along Charles Mound Road.
Park safely off the traveled portion of the county road near the private gate and leave enough room for farm equipment and local traffic. Do not drive up the private lane.
Park amenities
- Roadside parking during authorized access
- Highpoint marker
- Summit register
Know before you go
Charles Mound private-property rules
Visit only on an explicitly authorized public-access date.
Visit during daylight hours only.
Park along Charles Mound Road and do not drive on the private lane.
Do not bring pets onto the property.
Do not block the road, gate, or farm-equipment access.
Stay on the established lane and respect the owners residence and farmland.
Conditions
Check before leaving
As of September 15, 2026, the final announced 2026 public-access weekend has passed. Do not visit until another access date is announced. Check current owner or Highpointers Club information before making travel plans.