After heavy rains, Shawnee Forest Country transforms. Creeks begin to swell, and waterfalls, some gentle and subtle, others dramatic and roaring, start appearing across the forest. If you visit at the right time, it’s easy to spend an entire day, or even a full weekend, chasing waterfalls throughout Southernmost Illinois Read more
Looking for a romantic escape? Or maybe a girls getaway? Come for the wine, and stay for the experience along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail! Take the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Challenge!Visit all 11 winery members of the Trail to earn $5 in Read more
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. The cooler temperatures mean no Read more
Roam for Gnomes on a Winter Adventure at Giant City State Park, Makanda IL. Tucked in the stunning Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park is a hidden gem offering a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and light adventure travelers. One of the park’s highlights is the annual wintertime Read more
The coffee trail is back by popular demand, and the trail runs even longer, starting in August andcontinuing through December, giving you more time to enjoy every flavorful stop along the way! There is nothing like a refreshing ice coffee after a scenic hike or sipping hot coffee on a Read more
Enjoying the fresh air while hiking the forest in search of the perfect Christmas tree, can be a wonderful way to begin the holiday season. Create special memories by bringing your family to the Shawnee National Forest to cut your own Christmas tree. For families interested in creating new traditions, Read more
Murphysboro is Illinois’ BBQ capital, and BBQ aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro, is more than worth it. The small town hosts a barbecue cook-off every September and is perhaps the only town in the country with two Barbecue Hall of Famers. In addition to the BBQ history, Read more
Enjoy exploring the village of Alto Pass, surrounded by rolling hills and the breathtaking scenery of the Shawnee National Forest. Area natural attractions include: Cedar Lake, Little Grand Canyon, Quetil Trail, Trail of Tears State Forest and Pomona Natural Bridge. As you travel the rolling hills of Hwy. 127, six Read more
With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to the Shawnee National Forest offers a variety of trails and attractions. Garden of the Gods and Rim Rock/Pounds Hollow Recreational area are two must see locations on the eastern side of the Shawnee National Forest. Both Read more
Hike, bike and like the views along 50 miles of the Tunnel Hill Trail through Shawnee Forest Country. The Tunnel Hill State Trail offers bicyclists, hikers, walkers and runners with 50 miles of the most beautiful and peaceful miles in Illinois. The Trail stretches south from Harrisburg, through Vienna to Read more