The Shawnee National Forest, deep in the heart of Southern Illinois, is home to one of the Midwest’s most epic long-distance hiking trails. One such beauty is the River to River Trail. This trail goes up to 160 miles from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River, and it’s more than just a walk in the woods. With scenic views, peaceful forests and sandstone cliffs, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting to get into long-distance hiking, the River to River Trail in Illinois is an adventure.
In today’s blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know so you can enjoy it to the fullest. Keep reading to learn how to elevate your experience and where to rest before you hit the trail.
Everything you need to know about the River to River Trail
Starting near Elizabethtown at Battery Rock on the Ohio River and ending at Grand Tower on the Mississippi River, the River to River Trail is a 160-mile trail. Established in the early 1990s, this is one of the best-kept secrets for long-distance hiking in the US, perfect for a Spring or Fall hike.
Why is Experiencing the River to River Trail in Illinois a Must?
Simply put, there is no reason why you should not experience this literal heaven on earth with your loved ones. This section offers a fun-filled long-distance hiking in the Shawnee National Forest. Here, you will have a great time because:
- Diverse Landscapes
You’ll see everything here. From limestone cliffs and waterfalls to forests, sandstone canyons, and open meadows, every section of the trail offers something new.
- Hidden Gems
Along the trail, you’ll find rock carvings, cemeteries, and old settler cabins. Each one adds to the history and experience of your hike.
- Encounter Wildlife
If you love wildlife, we have good news for you. Here you’ll see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, frogs, and maybe even bald eagles soaring overhead. It’s a nature lover’s and wildlife photographer’s paradise.
- Backcountry Experience
This trail isn’t commercialised, so you’ll experience nature’s raw beauty. Unlike the busier trails out west, the River to River Trail offers solitude and quiet.
- Test your Endurance
Completing the entire River to River Trail is no small feat. It’s a journey that tests your physical endurance, patience and mental strength. So if you want to get your adrenaline fix while having an epic journey, this is the place for you!
Where to Stay Before or After Your Trek?
Once you have entered the Shawnee National Forest, you should first consider getting enough rest before you kickstart your adventure. For that, you can pre-book your Shawnee Forest Cabin, where you can not only rest but also enjoy:
- Peaceful stay amongst the woods
- Private hot tub
- Cozy beds
- Fire pits
- Easy access to the prime locations, including the River to River Trail.
(Also read from our previous blogs: Embrace Nature with Sustainable Treehouse Rentals)
What Else Can You Enjoy on the River to River Trail?
This place is not just about trekking, but here, you get to experience the best sections of River to River Trail beauties like:
- Garden of the Gods
- One Horse Gap
- Lusk Creek Wilderness
- Panther Den Wilderness
- Little Grand Canyon
- Ferne Clyffe State Park
What Do You Need to Travel Here?
Focusing on the River to River Trail backpacking is essential. Considering it is a 160-mile-long trail, you must carry every vital item for the sake of your safety. The following is a list of all the essentials you are going to need:
- Extra batteries
- Tent
- Water filter
- Cooking essentials
- First Aid kit
- Layered clothes
- Rain coats
- Sleeping pads and bags
- Headlamps
- Navigation tools
- Food worth 7-14 days, just in case
- Comfortable hiking boots
What to Avoid here?
Ensure to avoid the following for an enhanced experience in Shawnee National Forest:
- Unmarked areas are a big NO.
- Unreliable water areas
- Sudden weather change
- Forgetting mosquito repellents
Bottom Line
The River to River Trail in Illinois is not just a trekking trail but a hidden beauty where you can reconnect with wildlife and nature. It is a place where you can enjoy scenic beauty, create unforgettable memories, and take some of the most aesthetic pictures of all time.
Grab your shoes and book your Shawnee Forest Cabin today! Contact us to book your cabin.
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