You already know how beautiful Shawnee National Forest is, but what’s inside is even more beautiful, photogenic, and literally heaven on earth. Nestled deep in the scenic Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, the Panther Den Loop Trail is a hidden gem for hikers. Known for its rugged rock formations, peaceful forests, and unforgettable hiking experience, this hidden gem has everything you need.
If you’re new to the Panther Den Loop Trail or Shawnee National Forest in general, this blog is for you. In today’s blog, we’ll tell you what makes Panther Den Loop Trail one of the best trails for peaceful hiking and what you need to carry for a smooth and safe experience with your friends and family.
Keep reading to know more.
Everything you need to know about the Panther Den Loop Trail
A great hiking trail, the Panther Den Loop Trail is famous for its sandstone bluffs and caves that look like giant natural dens. With less foot traffic than other parts of Shawnee National Forest, this trail is peaceful and meditative. Plus, with mossy boulders, crevices, and large overhangs, the trail offers many opportunities for nature photography and adventure.
Why is Experiencing the Panther Den Trail in Illinois a Must?
The Panther Den Trail in Illinois is more than just a hidden trail in Shawnee National Forest; it is more than just that. Here, you get to experience:
- Rock formations from millions of years ago that occurred due to natural erosion.
- From natural photography to rock climbing to experiencing natural habitat, this is where you get every bit of nature.
- Here, you can enjoy a beautiful, dense forest and even more beautiful early morning fog. Trust us when we say this place is a literal heaven on earth!
Where to Stay Before or After Your Trek?
While you can always put up a tent and enjoy your weekend amongst the wildlife and nature habitat, there is something you must not miss: a cabin in the woods for an elevated experience.
Before you start your journey to the Shawnee National Forest bluff trails, you must consider resting in a cabin by the Shawnee Forest Cabin. Here, you get:
- Precise location, with a short drive to the Panther Den Trail.
- Modern amenities like a private porch, a hot bath-tub, a kitchen, a lakeview, and so much more.
- These cabins offer soft, comfortable beds and food options that make you feel at home.
- If your pets are tagging along, they can rest here as well!
(Also read from our previous blogs: Book the Best Hotels Near Garden of the Gods for Your Next Adventure)
What Do You Need: Expert Tips
Considering this is a natural habitat, it is pretty natural not to find certain necessary items around the forest. This is why our experts offer the following Panther Den Trail hiking tips:
- Start early to enjoy every beautiful element of the forest.
- Always stay on the trails and avoid visiting the off-trail areas for safety concerns.
- Carry plenty of water and avoid drinking from random water bodies.
- Use GPS, but also consider carrying a physical map for better support.
- Follow the No Trace principle- do not leave behind the trash. Keeping the forest clean and natural is your responsibility.
- Keep taking breaks; getting exhausted would mean missing out on great opportunities to experience out-of-this-world scenic beauty.
- If you are travelling solo, ensure to inform about your hiking plans with a responsible person.
- Get suitable clothes and shoes.
- Avoid stepping out during the monsoon.
Bottom Line
Ensure that you get every required item into this wonderful land of Panther Den Loop Trail. When you have all the necessary items with you, you can enjoy most of them with your loved ones. However, ensure to take serious care of your safety. Apart from that, from scenic beauty to a comfortable stay at Shawnee Forest Cabin, this is a once-in-a-lifetime package you must not miss.
Need to pre-book your cabins? Contact us directly.
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