The “Crown Jewel” of Southern Illinois—This National Forest Has Dramatic Rock Formations and Panoramic Views

Nestled in southern Illinois, between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers , lies a forest that spans 289,000 acres of breathtaking scenery. What is this remarkable place, you might ask? It’s Shawnee National Forest. Often regarded as a crown jewel of the region , it offers stunning views of oak-hickory forests, flourishing wetlands, grassy open lands, lush canyons, and sheer bluffs. Hike in the Garden of the Gods ------------------------------ When people think of the Shawnee National Forest’s most popular tourist destination, it is the Garden of the Gods, which features a captivating 300-foot sandstone rock formation set against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak. These impressive sandstone formations that rise high above the wilderness make you feel as if you’re gazing down at earth from “the heavens” You can explore the Garden via a network of approximately 5.5 miles of trails , or just hike the Observation Trail, a half-mile flagstone loop. This trail offers panoramic views and close-up looks at the area’s most spectacular sights. Perkens Central Garden Trail The trail is a 1.5-mile, easy roundtrip path with a less than 30-foot elevation gain, located in the heart of the park at the base of the highest rock formations. Ridge Trail A moderate, half-mile loop, with less than a 100-foot rise in elevation gain. This path gives you the feeling of being surrounded by the rocks. Siamese Twins Trail This is an easy 1-mile roundtrip, with less than a 150-foot elevation gain . It features a unique view of Pikes Peak through the natural window of the Siamese Twins rock formations. Gateway/Central Garden Trails This is an easy, low-grade, 2.5-mile hike that begins at the naturally surfaced Overflow Parking Lot. Start by following the paved Foothills Trail, which connects with the paved Gateway Trail. The trail will cross the road and lead you to the Central Garden Trail , where you can explore short loops at the base of the tallest rock formations. Scotsman/Bucksin Charlie Trail A moderate trail that loops through the park, offering distant views of the Central Garden formations from these rolling, rocky trails. Source: https://secretchicago.com/shawnee-national-forest-garden-of-the-gods-illinois/