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The Top Hikes of Shawnee National Forest


One of the main reasons people stay with us is their love of nature, quality time with family, and adventure. Our luxury cabins can certainly fulfill the first two priorities, but if you want to satisfy all three, you'll have to hit the trails and see what lies beyond the trees. You'll explore Shawnee National Forest, find rock formations uncommon to the Midwest, and make memories with your family along the way.

When you first look at the myriad of trails you can try out, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones you should do with your family and friends. Some are absolute musts for every one of our guests, others work better for families with younger children, and a few are only for the most avid hikers. 

Little Grand Canyon


Length: 2.9 miles (in a loop)
Difficulty: Everyone

No, you're not in Arizona, but this hike will make you feel like you are. Every turn and peak will leave you speechless, with beautiful forest views and vibrant landscapes. There are several uphill sections, but they aren't too difficult for even your younger explorers.

Your walk will loop you around the Little Grand Canyon, from which the trail gets its name. Because of the dense forests layering the trail, you'll only be able to see the geological features of the canyon for a short span of the hike. The Little Grand Canyon Trail is worth your time, and can be a great starting adventure after you check in with us!
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Little Grand Canyon


Length: 2.9 miles (in a loop)
Difficulty: Everyone

No, you're not in Arizona, but this hike will make you feel like you are. Every turn and peak will leave you speechless, with beautiful forest views and vibrant landscapes. There are several uphill sections, but they aren't too difficult for even your younger explorers.

Your walk will loop you around the Little Grand Canyon, from which the trail gets its name. Because of the dense forests layering the trail, you'll only be able to see the geological features of the canyon for a short span of the hike. The Little Grand Canyon Trail is worth your time, and can be a great starting adventure after you check in with us!

Giant City State Park


Length: 0.3 miles - 10.8 miles
Difficulty: Everyone/Younger Families

If you are looking for something easy and worthwhile, you may want to try the Giant City State Park trails. None of these are very exerting, and most of them can be done within a half-hour. The shortest hike is the Devil's Standtable Trail (0.3 miles), and the rest of them are slightly longer than that. It's perfect for making your own route!

The exception in the park is the Red Cedar Trail, which is an astoundingly long 10.8 miles. You'll find gorgeous outdoor views and possibly see local wildlife. However, this length of hike isn't for everyone, so keep the needs of your traveling group in mind.

Garden of the Gods


Length: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Everyone/Avid Hiker

Perhaps the most renowned trail in all of southern Illinois, the Garden of the Gods is an experience you shouldn't sleep on. No matter the time of year, you will always find something beautiful in this ever-stretching valley. Like many of the other trails we mentioned, Garden of the Gods has lush, green forest views and unique flora and fauna.

However, the key ingredient to the Garden of the Gods' popularity is its unique geology. Peer over the valley and you'll see rock formations line the horizon. Some you may even be able to climb on. You'll definitely think this trail ROCKS!

Garden of the Gods


Length: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Everyone/Avid Hiker

Perhaps the most renowned trail in all of southern Illinois, the Garden of the Gods is an experience you shouldn't sleep on. No matter the time of year, you will always find something beautiful in this ever-stretching valley. Like many of the other trails we mentioned, Garden of the Gods has lush, green forest views and unique flora and fauna.

However, the key ingredient to the Garden of the Gods' popularity is its unique geology. Peer over the valley and you'll see rock formations line the horizon. Some you may even be able to climb on. You'll definitely think this trail ROCKS!

River-to-River Trail


Length: 160 miles
Difficulty: Avid Hiker/Everyone (Depending on length)

Whether you want to go on a ten-hour long hike or just go on a short nature walk, the River-to-River Trail is likely the place for you. Don't plan on walking the whole thing during your stay, as the trail joins both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers--160 miles total! If you want to hike with a destination in mind, select one of the many stopping points and just flip around when you get there.

However, if you are an avid hiker and backpacker, you may want to do the full trail. If this is the case, contact the trail managers in Elizabethtown to get your journey started on the right foot!