Hiking in southern Illinois offers a variety of trails immersed in varied landscapes, wildlife, and stunning views. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to enjoy nature, southern Illinois has a trail for you.
We’ve gathered a complete list of the best hiking trails in southern Illinois to help you plan the perfect outdoor adventure.
In a hurry? These are the best places to hike in southern Illinois
- Best easy hike in southern Illinois: Giant City nature trail
- Best waterfall hike in southern Illinois: Ferne Clyffe waterfall trail
- Hardest hike in southern Illinois: Panther Den Wilderness Quest
Best hikes in southern Illinois
Here is an overview of the best southern Illinois trails.
Southern Illinois hiking trails
| Location | Distance | Difficulty level | Route type | Highlights | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Garden of the Gods Observation Trail | Garden of the Gods Wilderness |
0,25 miles |
Easy |
Loop | The ancient unique rock formations. | |
|
Giant City Nature Trail | Giant City State Park |
0,9 miles |
Easy |
Loop | The series of rock formations along the trail are beautiful to see and fun to explore. | |
|
Pomona Natural Bridge Trail | Shawnee National Forest |
0.3 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | Enjoy views of the bluffs from the natural, 90-foot bridge. | |
|
Ferne Clyffe waterfall trail | Ferne Clyffe state park |
0,75 miles (1.3 miles as a loop together with the Big Rocky Hollow trail) |
Moderate |
Out and back / or loop if combined with Big Rocky Hollow trail | The beautiful waterfall | |
| Deer trail Loop | John N. Olin Nature Preserve |
2.7 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | This loop will take you past a waterfall along a perfectly groomed trail. | ||
|
Stone Fort Nature Trail | Giant City State Park |
0,3 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | The hike leads to an abandoned prehistoric fort. | |
|
Inspiration Point Trail | Shawnee National Forest |
0,75 miles |
Moderate |
Out and back | Enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and the Big Muddy bottomlands. | |
|
Trillium trail | Giant City State Park |
2 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | Trillium trail is an ideal hike for bird watchers, wildflower enthusiasts, and nature lovers. | |
|
Panther Den Wilderness Quest | Panther Den Wilderness |
2,5 miles |
Moderate to difficult |
Loop | Panther Den is known for its hiking, equestrian activity, and bird watching. | |
|
Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop | Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve |
2,9 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | Distant views across the plains along with an abundance of wildflowers in spring. | |
|
Pere Marquette Outer Loop | Pere Marquette State Park |
5,9 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | Beautiful trail to spot wildlife like swallowtails and star spangled fritillary. | |
|
Red Cedar Trail | Giant City State Park |
12 miles |
Moderate |
Loop | Enjoy forests, wildlife, bluffs, and rock formations. |
General hiking tips
- It’s best to wear proper hiking shoes. Here is our selection of great lightweight hiking shoes.
- We advise you to wear hiking leggings, hiking shorts, or hiking pants. If you prefer high-waisted hiking pants, click here. Even men can wear hiking tights.
- If you go hiking during winter, check out our list of winter hiking leggings and fleece-lined hiking pants.
- Bring trekking poles with you. If you are looking for budget hiking poles, click here. If you are looking for a pair of lightweight trekking poles click here. If you are looking for women-specific poles, click here. For the best collapsible hiking sticks, click here.
- With the Garmin hiking watch, you can track all your hikes and you won’t get lost.
- Always bring enough water and snacks.
- Do not forget your camera and perhaps carry a bag/backpack to store it. It’s safer to store it when you’re clambering up, otherwise, your camera may bump into some rocks when it’s dangling around your neck.
Best easy hiking trails in southern Illinois
Whether you’re bringing along the whole family or just want to enjoy nature without the hassle of challenging terrain, these are some of the easiest southern Illinois trails.
Garden of the Gods Observation Trail
- Location: Garden of the Gods Wilderness
- Distance: 0.25 miles
- Difficulty level: Easy with some steep up and down sections
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes minutes
- Elevation gain: 39 feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: This trail is open and accessible throughout the year
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash
- Highlights: The ancient unique rock formations
Short description of the trail
The natural beauty of The Garden of the Gods Observation trail is what makes this hike the most visited site in Shawnee National Forest. 7 fantastic rock formations, impressive viewpoints, and dramatic cliffs are all found along this short, easy hike.
Where to start the Garden of the Gods Wilderness hike
The trailhead is located in the parking lot. There are restrooms within the parking lot as well. If you follow the road towards the campground, it will take you to a picnic area.
What people are saying about this hike
This trail has some very beautiful views of the forest. It is very gorgeous and just breathtaking
Beautiful hike with tons of photo opportunities!
Conclusion
Hiking southern Illinois’ Garden of the Gods is an extremely scenic adventure, so don’t forget to pack the camera or even a picnic since the short trail is filled with spots to sit and enjoy the beauty of the wildlife.
Giant City Nature Trail
- Location: Giant City State Park
- Distance: 0.9 miles
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes
- Elevation gain: 161 feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: This trail is open and accessible throughout the year
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash
- Highlights: The series of rock formations along the trail are beautiful to see and fun to explore
Short description of the trail
On the Giant City Nature Park Trail, there are countless opportunities to explore the natural wonders littered throughout the lush forest.
From small tunnels and interesting rock formations to Fat Man’s Squeeze and low-wall mazes, you and your family could spend hours uncovering the beauty of the area along this short, level hike.
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Where to start the Giant City Nature Trail hike
Start the hike at the Giant City Nature Park Visitors Center off Giant City Road.
What people are saying about this hike
This was an easy enough hike for us to bring the whole family and we all really enjoyed exploring the rocks along the way.
Conclusion
This trail is an excellent spot to explore famous rock formations that characterize the southern Illinois trails. For more information about this hike, check out our post here.
Wondering where to stay when visiting Giant City State Park? Check out these cute cabins in the area.
Best waterfall hikes in southern Illinois
If you plan to go hiking in southern Illinois, make sure to add one of these waterfall hikes to your bucket list for a guaranteed memorable trek.
Pomona Natural Bridge Trail
- Location: Shawnee National Forest in Pomona, Illinois
- Distance: 0.3 miles
- Difficulty level: moderate –there are some steep slopes
- Time needed: 20 minutes to hike but you could easily spend an hour exploring the area.
- Elevation gain: 69 feet
- Route type: loop
- When to go: open year-round
- Dog-friendly: Yes but they need to be on a leash at all times.
- Highlights: Enjoy views of the bluffs from the natural, 90-foot wide bridge.
Short description of the trail
Pomona Natural Bridge Trail is one of the best hiking trails in southern Illinois for families. This short trail winds through a beech forest where you’ll find a waterfall, views of the bluffs, a natural sandstone bridge, and a stream that the kids will love to explore.
Where to start the Pomona Natural Bridge hike
Right off Natural Bridge Road, you’ll find a parking lot and a well-marked sign indicating the entrance to Pomona Natural Bridge Trail.
What people are saying about this hike
This is an incredibly scenic hike and with the exception of a downhill at the beginning, the trail is quite level and great for everyone, including kids!
The trail is super well defined and easy to navigate, even if you decide to go a bit off-trail to explore the stream along the way.
Conclusion
For a scenic hike that is accessible to all skill levels, Pomona Natural Bridge Trail is the trail for you.
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Ferne Clyffe waterfall trail
- Location: Ferne Clyffe State Park
- Distance: 0.75 miles (1.3 miles as a loop together with the Big Rocky Hollow trail)
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Time needed: 45 minutes
- Elevation gain: 207 feet
- Route type: Out and back / or loop if combined with Big Rocky Hollow trail
- When to go: March to October for the most impressive view of the fall. Come in summer and your kids will be able to play in the pond at the bottom of the falls
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash
- Highlights: The beautiful waterfall
Short description of the trail
As you probably guessed from the name, Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail is made popular because of the gorgeous waterfall found along the trail.
While the path to getting there can be rugged, the short distance and picturesque forestry along the way make it worthwhile.
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Where to start the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall hike
The trailhead is located at Ferne Clyffe Campground.
What people are saying about this hike
Highly recommended but the trail can be confusing because it isn’t well marked.
Truly beautiful waterfall and trail. Make sure to pay attention to what time of year you visit though because it is seasonal.
Conclusion
All skill levels are welcome to enjoy the Ferne Clyffe waterfall hike and the prominent sights along the way.
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Deer trail loop
- Location: John N. Olin Nature Preserve near Alton, Illinois
- Distance: 2.7 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Time needed: 1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: 347 feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: April- December
- Dog-friendly: No Dogs
- Highlights: This loop will take you past a waterfall along a perfectly groomed trail.
Short description of the trail
Deer Trail Loop runs through a beautiful forest setting where you’ll likely spot deer turkeys in the quiet setting.
There are tons of hills along the way that are perfect for kids to run up and down.
Where to start the Deer Trail Loop hike
Begin the hike at the Forest Park Nature Center where there are signs and maps for how to get started.
What people are saying about this hike
This is an excellent trail. It’s super quiet, well-marked, and beautiful.
This is the perfect trail for families. I loved how peaceful it was and my kids loved seeing the deer, rabbits, and beavers.
Conclusion
No matter the time of year, Deer Trail Loop is always an enjoyable loop and the perfect distance.
Hardest hikes in southern Illinois
Experienced hikers are welcome to test their skills on any one of these challenging trails.
Stone Fort Nature Trail
- Location: Giant City State Park
- Distance: 0.3 miles
- Difficulty level: moderate
- Time needed: 30 minutes
- Elevation gain: 82 feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: year-round
- Dog-friendly: Yes but on a leash
- Highlights: The hike leads to an abandoned prehistoric fort
Short description of the trail
The Stone Fort Nature trail leads to the ruins of an old military fort that is much older than the country itself.
While it may appear to some as a pile of rocks, this fort is believed to have been built around 600-800 AD.
Along the way to this historical site, you’ll find wildflowers, wildlife, massive boulders, and plenty of trees.
Where to start the Stone Fort Nature hike
The trail starts in the parking lot of Giant City Park Road, the parking lot is shared with the Trillium trailhead.
What people are saying about this hike
I loved seeing the sights but I wouldn’t bring young kids on this hike because the path is really narrow with quite a few steep falls.
Very rugged but definitely worth it!
Conclusion
Stone Fort Nature Trail is like no other trail because of its archeological significance in addition to beautiful water and rock features.
Inspiration Point Trail
- Location: Located within the Shawnee National Forest in Wolf Lake, Illinois
- Distance: 0.75 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate due to steep areas and loose rocks
- Time needed: Up to one hour
- Elevation gain: 164 ft
- Route type: Out and back
- When to go: Accessible year-round
- Dog-friendly: Yes but dogs need to remain leashed.
- Highlights: Enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and the Big Muddy bottomlands
Short description of the trail
Shawnee National Forest offers the best hiking in southern Illinois and Inspiration Point Trail is one of the hikes you cannot miss.
The overlook at the top of the hike earns its namesake as truly inspirational and breathtaking.
Where to start the Inspiration Point hike
There are two trailheads: the lower trailhead at McCann Springs Picnic Area, and the upper trailhead across from Clear Springs Wilderness.
What people are saying about this hike
Truly breathtaking views from Inspiration points, probably the best view in the state, and the hike to get there was scenic and enjoyable.
Conclusion
If you’re on the lookout for gorgeous overlooks and breathtaking views, put Inspiration Point hike at the top of your list.
The sights are best enjoyed at sunrise or sunset.
Trillium trail
- Location: Giant City State Park
- Distance: 2 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate for its rugged terrain.
- Time needed: 1 hour
- Elevation gain: 164 Feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: Year-round
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome
- Highlights: Trillium trail is an ideal hike for bird watchers, wildflower enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Short description of the trail
Trillium Trail has it all: from blooming wildflowers and unique plant species to sandstone bluffs, rocky creeks, and unique ice formations (seen in the winter).
At times the hike can be a bit uneven and rugged which makes it even more interesting.
Where to start the Trillium Trail hike
The trail is located within Giant City State Park. The trailhead is located on Giant City Park Road.
What people are saying about this hike
I loved the rock formations and found the trail very scenic. The best part was that it was very doable with kids.
Great hike! Halfway through there are stairs that were pretty steep, but the rest of the hike was a breeze.
Conclusion
Trillium Trail is a gorgeous route, but hikers must be mindful as there are steep cliffs that can be slippery when wet.
Panther Den Wilderness Quest
- Location: Panther Den Wilderness
- Distance: 2.5 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate to difficult
- Time needed: 3 hours
- Elevation gain: 285 feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: Year-round
- Dog-friendly: Yes but must be kept on a leash
- Highlights: Panther Den is known for its hiking, equestrian activity, and bird watching
Short description of the trail
Panther Den is named after the den-like, rock cave located in the Panther Den Wilderness.
Along the trail, you’ll find steep terrain, huge rock formations, rolling hills, and some pretty spectacular spots for camping if you’re looking for overnight hikes in southern Illinois
Where to start the Panther Den hike
The Panther Den trailhead is located on Panthers Den Lane in Makanda, Illinois.
What people are saying about this hike
Even though there are lots of fallen trees and greenery, the trail is very well kept which made seeing the amazing rock formations all the more worthwhile.
Download the map before you go because the hiking trail can be confused with the horse trails!
Conclusion
Be mindful that the loose rocks, creek crossing, and oftentimes muddy trails can be very challenging but well worth it for seasoned hikers.
Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop
- Location: Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve
- Distance: 2.9 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Time needed: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Elevation gain: 452 feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: This trail is open and accessible throughout the year but if you come during the spring and summer, you will be able to see more flowers and plants throughout
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash
- Highlights: Distant views across the plains along with an abundance of wildflowers in spring
Short description of the trail
While hiking the challenging Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop, don’t forget to look for remnants of the limestone quarry that used to sit on this stretch of land.
In addition to a rich history, you’ll find towering rock formations, steep inclines, colorful wildflowers, and several overlooks with scenic views.
Where to start the Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop
The trailhead is easy to find, right off the Salt Lick parking lot.
What people are saying about this hike
If you take the loop counterclockwise, the first half is really steep but the views from the top are absolutely amazing.
Love this hike. Once you’re past the first ¾ mile, the last section is flat and decorated with moss-covered boulders. One of my favorite hikes I’ve done.
Conclusion
Opt for a more challenging hike with the Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop. The steep climb leads to stunning overlooks and panoramic views of southern Illinois.
Pere Marquette Outer Loop
- Location: Pere Marquette State Park
- Distance: 5.9 miles
- Difficulty level: Moderate
- Time needed: 3 hours
- Elevation gain: 990 Feet
- Route type: Loop
- When to go: Year-round
- Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash
- Highlights: Beautiful trail to spot wildlife like swallowtails and star-spangled fritillary
Short description of the trail
If you’re looking for some hiking places in southern Illinois to connect with the outdoors, Pere Marquette Loop trail is a great place to hike.
The different sections offer unique experiences, such as interesting geology, McAdams peak, tall grass fields, and plenty of river overlooks.
Where to start the Pere Marquette Loop Trail hike
Begin the hike in the northwest corner of the Visitors Center parking lot
What people are saying about this hike
The hike was a bit strenuous but had many lovely overlooks
While the views of the hills are breathtaking, the hike can be pretty challenging. The trail has eroded quite a bit but is still worth the visit.
Conclusion
This hike is a bit challenging and not as well maintained as others but the nature is bountiful and the challenging hike rewarding.
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Red Cedar Trail
- Location: Giant City State Park
- Distance: 12 miles
- Difficulty level: moderate
- Time needed: 1 day
- Elevation gain: 1,263 feet
- Route type: loop
- When to go: Late fall to spring. The trail is closed during deer shot-gun seasons
- Dog-friendly:
- Highlights: Enjoy forests, wildlife, bluffs, and rock formations.
Short description of the trail
Red Cedar Trail is one of the best places to hike in southern Illinois for an immersive wilderness experience. It’s the only trail at Giant City where there is a specific camping area for the trail.
Once hiking, you’re likely to spot a plethora of wildlife along the rugged, back-country route past bluffs, rolling hills, and rushing creeks.
Where to start the Red Cedar Trail hike
Begin at the trailhead which is located next to the parking area off the main Giant City Class A Campground. There are restrooms as well as signs indicating where to begin.
What people are saying about this hike
This trail is definitely not for beginners as it’s a pretty good workout.
Rough terrain but enjoyable.
Conclusion
If you’re a nature enthusiast looking for a rugged hiking experience, Red Cedar Trail is the route for you.
Unlike most of the other trails on the list, Red Cedar is not commonly walked on and not maintained, adding to the challenge of the trek.
Conclusion
Southern Illinois’ varied landscapes are beautifully showcased in each of these wonderful and unique trails.
There are hikes for the experienced and novice, young and old, as well as campers and dog owners.
Get outside and enjoy the outdoors on one of these beautiful trails.
See the web story that accompanies this post.
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