Garden of the Gods is a truly amazing place. Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, the Garden of the Gods Wilderness area encompasses over 3,300 acres of woods and unique rock formations.
The most popular trail is the Observation Trail. While it is only a quarter of a mile long and not strenuous at all, it will probably take you longer than you think it would to hike it – especially if you are as passionate about rocks as I am.
If you stay on the trail, you will be in no danger, but don’t just stay on the trail. You can climb all over the rock towers and valleys – it’s like a natural playground for adults. Just watch out for the 100-foot drop-offs, and you’ll be just fine.
The sandstone formations have some of the most unique textures I have ever seen. I could have stayed and just stared at the rocks for three more hours, but the sun was setting, and we had to get a move on.
We were also able to walk a bit of the River to River trail. Actually, we weren’t on the trail at all, but off exploring the caves at the base of the cliffs. You can actually get pretty deep into these caves, as long as you are not claustrophobic (and not morbidly obese).
After emerging from the caves in our mud-sodden clothes, we decided to go home and do laundry.
We almost hit about thirty deer on the way back – a modest number for this area.
For other ideas of places to explore in Southern Illinois, check out Ferne Clyffe State Park, the Rocky Bluff Trail, Little Grand Canyon, or Jackson Falls!
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