Step out of your comfort zone...

Climb, dive and zipline through Southernmost Illinois and the Shawnee Forest. From novice to expert, memories will be created for each experience you take away!

CEDAR BLUFF

Located nearby Ferne Clyffe State Park, Cedar Bluff is another ideal rock climbing area for both newbies and experienced climbers. The Little Big Wall offers a unique climbing experience from out of a cave and onto a rock face. Cedar Bluff also offers several other climbing routes, some are long and challenging, while others are smooth and consistent. 

Vertical HeARtland Climbing School

Whether you’re an experienced climber or a novice, Vertical Heartland offers hands-on instruction that’s provided by experienced guides with climbs tailored to suit your needs. Climbing services are available all year long for personal and groups that schedule a reservation. 

Ferne Clyffe State Park

Whether you’re seeking an interesting climb or advanced route for a challenge, you’ll find it along with breathtaking scenery at Ferne Clyffe State Park. Absolutely no bolts are allowed on any bluffs, and some bluffs are inaccessible to protect the native endangered flora. 

Shawnee National Forest

Limited rock climbing is available in Shawnee National Forest, climbers are allowed at Jackson Falls (near Ozark). Jackson Falls is ideal for technical and sport climbing and offers gorgeous scenic views of the forest and bluffs in the area. 

Giant City State Park

Climbing and rappelling are permitted at the park in two locations. The areas of devil’s standtable cliff and shelter #1 bluff at the Makanda entrance. Climbers should bring their own equipment and can go directly to the bluffs. All climbing is conducted at your own risk! Please use caution.

Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour

Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour is Southern Illinois’ premiere outdoor experience. While traveling over 8 ziplines and 3 aerial bridges, on our breathtaking 83 acre course, you will experience the heart of the Shawnee National Forest.

Mermet springs

From the main diving dock, you’ll see schools of large bluegill, giant albino channel catfish and, further down, spoonbills! These prehistoric throw-backs have huge mouths and are known to grow larger than five-foot in length.
Glen Faith’s Mermet Springs prides itself on being well-organized, professional and comfortable with some of the best-trained diving instructors in the Midwest. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, Mermet Springs will easily accommodate your training needs and some great diving adventures.