The cooler temperatures mean no bugs or snakes 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 Shawnee National Forest can be magical any time of the year but the transition to winter can be especially dramatic.
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, or Bart Lane’s guided hikes.
Experience a Private Winter Igloo at Clad & Cordon Vineyard where you can sample wine or soft drinks while you enjoy the scenery and cozy up by the fire. Unique colored lighting around the base of the igloo and twinkling lights across the dome – makes for a magical vibe.
Igloos seat 8 comfortably, are heated, offer custom Clad & Cordon blankets to keep you cozy, as well as a bluetooth speaker for music. They rent for $100 for 2 hours and include a complimentary charcuterie board.
Make it a romantic weekend, or a girlfriend getaway!
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 December to February. Timber Ridge Outpost and Cabins is offering 20% off with the code: Winter20
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!