Winter is a great time to enjoy the slower, quieter side of Shawnee Forest country.  The cooler temperatures mean no bugs and the trees are bare, allowing you to see much further into the forests. Bluffs hidden behind the summer foliage emerge dramatically into sight.

Scenic view in the Garden of the Gods area of the Shawnee National Forest

Hiking is available year-round, and if you have visited in another season, winter can offer a very different experience.  The weather is generally mild, and you can pretty much have the trails all to yourself.  Enjoy a peacefulness that only winter can provide. 

After a day of hiking, bicycling, horseback riding or zip-lining relax in front of a fire, or roast hot dogs and marshmallows.    Some cabins and cottages also offer  hot tubs, as well as booking incentives for  January and February.

The  Shawnee Hills Wine Trail has adjusted winter time hours, but you can still pick up your favorite wines and cozy up by the fire.  Get your Wine Trail Winter passport to enjoy savings and  curl up on the couch with a nice warm blanket just enjoying some down time. 

With your purchase of a $20.00 winery passport, you will receive discounts at each of the member wineries and some free items and shopping incentives.    Spend Valentine’s Day at a Shawnee Hills Wine Trail winery!  On site lodging is available at several of the wineries.

We can assure you the shops in the area offer a wide selection of items you will not find in the mall or online. Gifts that are unique and beautiful, often hand made by local artisans. Find Illinois made products like C’s Bees and Shawnee Hills Lavender at the Annabelle Market.   Book a stay today!


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03 Winter Getaways and Adventures to Shawnee Forest Country « The Healthy Planet · November 30, 2022 at 7:10 pm

[…] Hiking is available year-round, and if you have visited in another season winter can offer a very different experience. The weather is generally mild, and you can pretty much have the trails all to yourself. Enjoy a peacefulness that only winter can provide. If you are really lucky, the waterfalls will be flowing or frozen, either sight is beautiful! If you don’t want to explore on your own, there are options for guided hikes with Hiking with Shawn, Bart Lane’s guided hikes, a packaged stay with Steve of Rim Rocks Dogwood Cabins, or a photography adventure.  […]

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