Where to go in Shawnee National Forest

We had the most amazing trip to Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. The natural beauty is astounding and makes it a true tourist attraction. The other amenities that have popped up surrounding it make it a truly great vacation spot. So on that note, here are our suggestions on where to go in Shawnee National Forest. 

The Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods has some lovely hikes and even better views.  The photos really speak for themselves. Don’t worry you won’t have to go rock climbing to see them, although you can for fun. Just make sure you have a better plan for getting back down then I did as I learned the hard way that it was much easier to get up then climb back down. Luckily I had some fellow visitors who actually were rock climbers help me plan my best route. Garden of the Gods is probably the most popular area to visit and it is clear as to why.  

Rim Rock Recreation Trail

Rim Rock is just as phenomenal as the Garden of the Gods but way less crowded and so much more tranquil. We were entirely alone for 85% of our visit there, particularly in the woods. While the Garden has great views on the rock formations from above, Rim Rock offers  views from the ground looking up at the towering formations amongst the trees. Rim Rock also has Ox Lot cave and stairs up in between the rock formations that are cool but definitely not for the claustrophobic. Climbing up through it is an optional part of your visit to Rim Rock.

Garden of the Gods Outpost

Garden of the Gods Outpost is the perfect place to stop for a sweet ice cream treat, or to grab other staples you need while you are out on the trails. They also have gift shop with items celebrating the local area, including Big Foot items which apparently is rumored to have been seen in the area. 

Pounds Hollow Lake and Recreation Area

Pounds Hollow is a lovely little lake with a sand Beach for swimmers and grassy areas for fishing. There is additional hiking through the forested areas around the lake. It was a great stop for some relaxation amidst all the hiking. 

Cave-in-Rock State Park 

As the name implies this park is the home of a very large cave in the rocks along the Ohio River. If you look across the river you are looking over into Kentucky. The cave has an extensive and sordid history of being a refuge from river pirates and other outlaws and bandits and is a lot of fun to explore the cavernous space. Make sure you wear the right shoes as it was pretty muddy around there. 

Ohio River

While you are down by the river to see Cave-In-Rock State Park it is the perfect opportunity to check out the Ohio River itself. You can simply walk along it’s pleasant shores or take a ferry across to Kentucky. But again, it’s a lot of clay so be prepared to get a bit muddy. 

Shawnee Wine Trail

As if the fantastic hiking and views of the Shawnee National Forest are not enough the area is also home to numerous wineries. Enough wineries that they have created an entire trail to encourage touring. They all offer tastings, some free some at a small cost , all with delicious wines for every palate. On our trip we made a real effort to hit them all and you can check out our winery reviews here. 

Alto Pass

Alto Pass really isn’t much more than a stop off on the side of the road but the views are breathtaking. You can fit it in perfectly while perusing the Wine Trail as it naturally falls on the road between Hedman and Alto Vineyards.

There are so many great places where you can go in Shawnee National Forest. It is a truly underrated vacation spotted we can’t wait to get back there. Beautiful scenery and tons of wineries… what more can you ask for? If you are looking for a great pet friendly place to stay while you are there check out our post about the Olde Squat Inn here.