There’s nothing like sipping hot coffee on a chilly day, or enjoying an iced coffee after a scenic hike. This year, the Southern Illinois Coffee Trail features over 50 different coffee shops spread over 450 miles. The trail is officially live from September 1st until December 31st and features discounts Read more…
Carbondale/Makanda is the centerline of the upcoming April 8, 2024 solar eclipse. This is the second solar eclipse for the region, following the one 7 years ago in Aug. of 2017. The total solar eclipse will occur at 1:59 p.m. CST on April 8, 2024 with a totality of more Read more…
Sign up for the Shawnee Challenge, it’s free and fun! It is a self-supported, complete at your own pace outdoor challenge to explore areas of the Shawnee National Forest. Experience different parts of the Shawnee National Forest in the ways you prefer: hiking, paddling, on horseback or mountain biking. This 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…
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 Read more…
Over the river and through the woods to the cypress swamp we go! Cache River Wetlands – Illinois’s Hidden Bayou is one of nature’s masterpieces. Stroll the boardwalks, hike or take a canoe or kayak through the mysterious Cache River Wetlands, a “Wetlands of International Importance.” Learn about our tupelo-cypress 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. Hiking is available year-round, and Read more…
Travel the scenic roads across Shawnee Forest County in Southernmost Illinois to discover some unique shopping spots. Take a road trip to Murphysboro, Illinois’ BBQ capital. BBQ aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro, is more than worth it. The small town hosts a barbecue cook-off every year and Read more…
Hike more, worry less! Get the family back outside and take time to reconnect with nature and one another. The fresh air is good for your mind, body and soul. There’s no better place to do that than with an adventure to the Shawnee National Forest in Southernmost Illinois. Shawnee Read more…
The Makanda area offers a variety of unique lodgingoptions, a small sampling includes cabins in Giant City State Park, theMakanda Inn & Cottages, Oak and Walnut GroveCabins, as well as suites at Blue Sky Vineyards With its breathtaking natural beauty and unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation, a trip to Read more…