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Listed in Hiking area, Visited by Old Folks Adventures

• Shawnee Forest Rd
  Herod, Illinois 62947
• +16182527114
• https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/shawnee/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=10685&actid=51

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1. Overview
2. Reviews
3. Map & Directions
4. Contact/Other

Description

In the hills near Herod, Illinois, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area brings visitors into one of the most memorable landscapes of Shawnee National Forest. Weathered sandstone has been shaped into towering formations, narrow passages, and broad overlooks with views across the forested southern Illinois countryside.

The area’s signature walk is the Observation Trail, a short route that leads among the rock formations and out to scenic viewpoints. The footing can be rocky and uneven, and some overlooks are exposed, so take your time and stay on the established trail. Garden of the Gods is a rewarding stop for photography, geology, quiet sightseeing, and anyone who enjoys seeing how erosion and time have shaped the landscape.

Historical References / Learn More

• Garden of the Gods Recreation Area — U.S. Forest Service, Shawnee National Forest
• Shawnee National Forest — U.S. Forest Service

Listing Tags

Geology, Hiking, history and nature, nature photography, rock formations, sandstone, scenic overlooks, Shawnee National Forest, Southern Illinois

Street

Shawnee Forest Rd

Latitude

37.592665

Longitude

-88.399462

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Highlights

Picnics

Offerings

Hiking Trails, Picnic Areas, Scenic Overlooks, Outdoor Seating

Activities

Hiking, Wildlife Watching, Picnicking, Loop trail, Walking

Amenities

Picnic tables, Public restroom

Crowd

Family-friendly, Tourists

Children

Good for kids, Kid-friendly hikes

Parking

Free parking lot, On-site parking

Pets

Dogs allowed

Country

USA

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