Sip & Savor along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Looking for a girls getaway?  Or maybe a  romantic escape? Come for the wine, and stay for the experience along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail!

Murphysboro is Illinois’ BBQ capital,  and on the northern end of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.  BBQ aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro, is more than worth it, and is perhaps the only town in the country with two Barbecue Hall of Famers. In addition to the BBQ history, experience a booming craft beer movement that is vibrant and exciting.  Explore a variety of shops and the General John A. Logan Museum.

 Travel south on the rolling hills of Hwy. 127, along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail.  Enjoy the distinctive character of six wineries on the west side of the wine trail, as you explore the scenery of the Shawnee National Forest with a short hike at the Pomona Natural Bridge, or a more in depth adventure at the Little Grand Canyon area.

Explore the village of Alto Pass, then take the scenic drive up Bald Knob mountain for spectacular views of the forest valley.  

For an exhilarating adventure enjoy the breeze zipping through the trees  at Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour where you will:  Strap In.  Step Off. & Soar.  Their adrenaline-filled tour consists of eight zip lines, three suspension bridges and three short hikes through, and over, the rolling Shawnee Hills, bluff lines and creeks of the southern Illinois.  (A shorter, Chipmunk Run, zip line tour is also available.)

Five more wineries to discover on the east side of the Wine Trail, near the village of Makanda – the gateway into Giant City State Park.    While in Makanda, see if you can find the ‘secret garden’.  

Giant City State Park was named for the unique impressions made by its massive sandstone structures and home of the “Giant City Streets” – huge bluffs of sandstone formed 12,000 years ago.  The Visitor Center provides interpretive displays and area information, and the Lodge offers dining and cabin options.

Whether looking for a cozy cabin for two, room with a view or the perfect lodging for a group to relax and reminisce, the Shawnee Hills Lodging has you covered.   

Transportation

Let someone else take the wheel while you kick back, relax and take in the sights.  There’s no need to miss a thing during your visit to southernmost Illinois.  Wrightway Transportation and Shawnee Shuttle offer knowledgeable, local drivers that will offer you a homegrown experience during your visit.  They’ll even pick you up at your place of lodging and shuttle you safely to and from your adventure.

Sip & Savor the Flavor in the Shawnee Hills!