Sierra Club, Shawnee Group

Peabody/Forest Service Land Swap

2012-01-18T23:24:00.002-06:00

The comment period ends Jan 31. While the Shawnee would gve one property near the confluence of the Saline river and the Ohio (Gallatin county) in exchange for 2 Peabody properties, there is an environmental issue regarding the one near the Ohio River. This property protects a maternity roost colony of federally endangered Indiana bats, habitat for Gray bats, high quality natural area which includes rare hardwood forest bottomland.
Tell the Forest Service to stop this swap. Mailed comments may be sent to Hurston Nicholas, supervisor. Shawnee National Forest. 50 Hwy 145 South. Harrisburg,Ill. 62946. The subject of the letter is: ALHI-Shawnee NF land exchange proposal. You may also email to: comments-eastern-shawnee@fs.fed.us

Spring Service Outings 2012

2012-01-09T11:13:00.003-06:00

Shawnee National forest depends on volunteers to augment trail building, repair, and clearing trails. For any of the following dates call 618-833-8576 ext 103 or email shawneevolunteercorp@yahoo.com to volunteer, irregardless of the location of any trail. You will be provided with the time and meetup place. Bring lunch, water, appropiate footwear, and gloves. Tools and hardhats are furnished.
Febr 11, 25, March 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28 are all in Panther Den Wilderness. Febr 26-Burden Falls Wilderness, March 25-Millstone Bluff, April 15-Camp Cadiz, May 13 and 19-Garden of Gods.

2012 winter/spring outings

2011-12-16T23:42:00.004-06:00

jan 15. Wolfe Creek Scenic Area. car pool 12:30 Murphysboro ranger station. private property.

long pretty cliff line and waterfall.

Febr 19.. Thacker Hollow. car pool starts Murdale Shopping ctr sign in Carbondale 9am ,or former Wal-mart parkig in Marion 9:30. Deep ravines,500 shelter cave, trail bisecting parallel cliff lines.

March 11. Camp Ondessonk trails. car pool starts 11am Murdale shopping ctr sign or 11:30 former Walmart parking in Marion. trail along tree houses, continuous cliff lines,cedar falls, and cascades.

April 15. Cave Valley Trail and FS 741. car pool at Murphysboro ranger station 1pm. unique varieties of wild flowers along both trails and marshes.

May 6. Limekiln Trail in Cypress Creek Wildlife Refuge. Car pool starts Murdale 11 am or 11:30 former Walmart parking in Marion. views of swamps, tupelo and cypress trees,wildlife.
RSVP to Bob Tyson at 684-5643.
I will add the river to river trail society hikes to this page when available, so add your email to the subscribe button on the blog front page if you want to be notified.

2012 Sierra Club Calendars

2011-11-21T11:46:00.003-06:00

get yours at our monthly meetings held the second thursday of each month 7;30 pm at the Carbondale Township Building. Another place would be at the annual alternative Gift Fair the first Sunday in December, Unitarian Fellowship church in Carbondale. We will be there from 3-6pm. We can also mail a calendar to you or call 684-5643. We ask $12 for wall and $13 for desk calendars. Ours are cheaper than stores plus you help the local Shawnee group financially.

Clayton Hollow Trails

2011-08-19T14:22:00.005-05:00

Continuing with our series,"Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Clayton Hollow Trails. I used the Shawnee National Forest green interim 2011 map for this place. Keep in mind that the map is not drawn to scale, so distances are hard to determine on each trail. Directions: From Harrisburg, go east on Rt 13 to Equality and turn south on the Garden of Gods road. Travel several miles and go left at a stop sign. After a few miles, turn onto High Knob Rd. Take this until a stop sign appears and turn left on Leamington Rd. Follow this about 6 miles to Blackridge Rd. We ascend up this road, passing residences, and after the blacktop ends, start looking for a small parking lot on the right. Trail 184 crosses the road and bisects both Thacker Hollow and Clayton hollow. Cross the road and we will make 184 a loop trail.

We are gradually descending a rim trail overlooking deep ravines. 15 minutes later, we junction with #181. Follow 181 a short distance to a junction with #183. A right turn here takes you back to Blackridge Rd. We will go left on 183 and again we view deep hollows and ravines along the way. Later we reach a confusing junction: 2 unmarked trails, another says "to #184", and the 4th says 183. We continued on 183 and note Pounds Hollow Lake below the trail. At a point where the lake is no longer visible, note an unmarked spur trail (I put pink ribbons there) that took us to a free-standing natural arch 5 minutes away. It is next to a rock glade top.

I returned to 183, continuing north, and now junction with 184. We continue north on 184 with 200-300 ft Pines, fern areas, and the trail tuns west. We hit a 3 way junction: road goes to a campground, one unmarked trail, and 184 turning south. Continue 184 back to the car along deep ravines. This loop trail took 4 hours. The Forest Service did an excellent job on graveling most of the trails. The trails are wide and not very steep. If time is short, just experience the first 15 minutes of 184 along the rim until the junction with #181. GPS coordinates for the area are 37 37' 51" N and 88 17' 12" W. Due to limited parking on Blackridge, those with horse trailers may want to park at Double M campground and use trail 187-8 to access the area. Scroll down this blog to Thacker Hollow trails for more hiking without even moving the car. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

FS 001T Loop Trail

2011-05-12T11:11:00.001-05:00

Continuing with our monthly feature, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature this new Forest Service trail, which also goes by the name Cove Hollow Trail. This can be confusing since a trail south of Murphysboro already has that name. Upon inquiry, the locals have always used that term for this place. Directions: scroll down this blog to East Trigg trailhead for directions from Ozark, Illinois. Coordinates appear to be 37 30' 0"N and 88 43' 0"W. It can also be found as N 37.801994 and W-90.70985.

The trail head has plenty of room for cars and horse trailers. Cross the road and follow the River to River trail signs for 18 minutes on this old service road until the junction with oo1T. This is a graveled surface thru a pine plantation and then changes to dirt. Suddenly this impressive cliff line appears and the serpentine trail weaves in and out a different cliff line and rock formations with each turn. Height vary from 30 ft to well over 100 ft. It looks like horse riders have also discovered this trail as dips in its surface have turned to mud. At some point we encounter a junction: upper cove and lower cove. I took upper cove to continue along the base of the cliffs. Then it turns to merge with lower. Now the loop will head south back to River to River trail (oo1). Did you miss the slot canyon near this junction? Now the loop moves away from the cliff line and running parallel with railroad tracks. Enjoy steep ravine views thru a long canyon. Despite previous user-made trails, oo1T is well marked. Eventually tread turns to gravel and meets up with 001. Turn right to return to the car. Turn left if you want to travel thru the RR underpass,left again, and follow the trail along pretty ravines and go on to a pretty rock area at Bay Lake. Our trail was 2.5 miles, gradually up and down but not steep. Overall, the Forest Service did a great job creating this trail. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Native Plant Project - Vienna Ranger Station‏

2011-04-20T12:46:00.005-05:00

The Shawnee Group Sierra Club, along with several other non-profits, entered into a cost share agreement with the U.S. Forest Service to supply volunteer labor for native landscaping at the new Hidden Springs Ranger Station in Vienna. To date, students from Vienna High School have contributed a lot of time with some of the initial landscaping, but the Forest Service is in need of some additional help.

Projects that need attention now include:

Remove daffodils (you can keep what you dig if you like).
General springtime garden bed clean up.
Help with establishing a short nature trail through a tiny woodlot adjacent to the building -- requires some small shrub/tree and invasive species removal, constructing some brush/habitat piles, laying some weed fabric and mulch on trails, etc.

Please contact Terri Treacy at terri.treacy@sierraclub.org to schedule a time -- week day or weekend -- to lend a hand.

Hughes Mountain Natural Area

2011-03-23T11:03:00.005-05:00

Continuing with our series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure," we feature this Missouri Dept of Conservation area. Directions: Cross bridge at Chester, IL, then Mo 51, then Co H, then Co Z, and enter I-55 north. Take Rt 32 exit to Farmington. Proceed north to Rt 8 and then a left turn on Co M. Follow several miles until you see the brown sign for this place.

This is an easy gradual ascent of 0.75 mile along the Devil's Honeycomb trail. Upon arrival, you have a 270 degree panoramic view over distant mountaintops. At this unusual glade-top, roam around among the polygonal rock formations. The pre-Cambrian and Rhyolite rock outcroppings are among the oldest exposed rocks in the US. It looks like a giant used a cookie cutter on this huge glade-top. Retrace the trail back to the parking area.

This area was featured in the February,2005, Shawnee Sierra newsletter but never got posted on the website, so a home for it is created on this blog. While this trail is further away from our normal postings, the motive here is to afford those with more limited hiking abilities to have an outdoor experience. On Mo 21, approx 10 miles away, take the trail at Elephant Rocks State Park (http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm). This is a one mile PAVED loop around gigantic formations. If you plan a trip to Branson, continue south from there on to Rt 86 for Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. This commercial site enables the hiker to walk along a paved, flat trail along waterfalls, cliff lines, rock formations, and caves. A tram car comes by every hour for those who are weary. http://www.dogwoodcanyon.org/. More info on the above areas from Bob Tyson at 618-684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. More pictures at wikipedia.org and this place on search line. Coordinates here are N 37.801994 and W -90.70985.

Secret Canyon Trail

2011-02-07T14:51:00.007-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Secret Canyon which is part of Lusk Creek Wilderness in Shawnee National Forest. I have described other areas of this wilderness previously: scroll down this blog for Lusk Creek to see the trail for Natural Bridge/Saltpeter Cave. Also, our website to see Indian Kitchen Trail (http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm).

Directions: From Harrisburg, IL, take Rt 145 south for approx 9 miles and turn left onto Oak Road. Drive this winding paved road 4.2 miles and turn right onto Oak Blanchard Road. You can also access this spot from Herod, IL, by taking Williams Hill Road to Blanchard. Commence this gravel road and look to the left for a fantastic ridge top view over the valley! We will drive 1.7 miles until you see a small parking lot on the right and brown sign for trails 457/492A. There is also sufficient room on the shoulders of the road for 5 cars. This road was fine during my January,2011, visit; it may not be desirable after a rainy season. Since this is a designated wilderness, groups are limited to 10 hikers or horse riders.

492A proceeds in a circular fashion with excellent tread and easy grade subsequent to its reconstruction last year. Early on, there is an unmarked junction-veer left. We travel thru woods and ravines until a "T" junction. The sign says left for Secret Canyon (trail 457). Pressing on, we arrive at an overlook and waterfall at the mouth of the canyon. The trail slowly descends to the base,and now we have a continuous steep cliff line on both sides. This trail moves in a serpentine direction, showing off the long icicles, rock formations, small caves, slot canyons, and a huge shelter cave. The latter was approx 75 ft deep, 100 ft wide, and 25 ft high. There is a horse highline at that spot. GPS coordinates here are 37 32' 18"N and 88 31' 48" W.

Eventually, the trail gradually ascends thru cliffs which diminish upon arriving at a junction. The sign says left on 457 to Natural Bridge, or straight ahead for 492D. I retraced my route back to the car. While returning, there is one place that looks like an intersection-veer left at the orange ribbon. From the mouth of the canyon back to my car, it was 30 minutes. For any questions contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

11/01/2011: sign for oak blanchard rd gets turned around in the wind. If unsure, when oak rd suddenly becomes williams hill rd, start looking on the right for this road.

Photo courtesy of Scott Campbell from the River to River Trails Society.

Seventysix Conservation Area

2011-01-11T13:31:00.004-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure," we travel to Seventysix conservation Area trail 3 miles NE of Brazeau, Missouri. Directions: Cross the bridge at Chester, IL, and drive 4 miles to a left turn on County C. Follow this for approx 20 miles and look for County D. Ignore the first sign for D, and continue to the next one. So far County C is a good road, although it is hilly and winding. It suddenly ascends from a flat plain to a ridgetop road with frequent distant views. County D is paved until we reach the conservation area.

Look for the second parking area on the left and arrive at the trailhead. No information about the trail is noted at the signboard. The trail is well-marked, but its ascents and descents are rugged. We start out on a long climb with cliff walls on the right and steep ravines on the left. We switchback to the top and enter a field. The trail becomes a wide swarth between acres of soybeans, corn, and wild grasses, along with frequent views of the Mississippi River and opposite bank. There are spur trails which afford overlooks into sinkholes, including ones with ponds. After 0.3 mile on top, we descend steeply thru woods, hit bottom, and look for a bridge and stair steps. We now have a short climb which brings us to an overlook above a major sinkhole area. The trail appears to end here. The length of the hike was approx 40 minutes each way.

Upon returning to the trailhead, drive over to the river and walk along the tracks for some views of steep ravines. Note a number of places for primitive camping. Approximate GPS coordinates 37 40' 25"N and 89 31' 28"W. For better pictures at the top and cliff line, Google southeast missourian and seventysix conservation area (the website title is too long to write here). North of this area on County C, note a turn for Red Rock Landing Conservation Area. Near its entrance the road seemed very questionable, plus a creek flowing over the road. For further questions, contact Bob Tyson at 618-684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Quetil Trail

2010-12-06T11:11:00.004-06:00

Continuing with our series "Adventures With Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Quetil trail, owned by the Village of Alto Pass, IL. Directions: Take Rt 127 south from Murphysboro to Alto Pass. Proceed thru town to a small parking lot. The entrance to the trail is well-marked, along with a historical display marker. This level-grade trail is a renovated old rail bed approx 1/4 mile long. Most of it is graveled and there are 3 benches along the way. On the left we have a pretty,long cliff line averaging 40-50 ft; On the right, note all of the free-standing huge boulders. During leaf-off, note the adjacent valleys and ridge tops.

At one point there is a rock staircase in the cliffs to ascend to the top for the picnic area and further views over the horizon (you can also drive to that bluff top from downtown). Eventually, the cliff line will diminish and the trail continues thru the woods, ending at a private property gate.

This is an excellent trail for those who are more physically-challenged or unable to handle most trails in the Shawnee. GPS coordinates 37.64859 and 89.34329 Pomona Quad. Any questions, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Limekiln Trail

2010-11-05T11:21:00.009-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Limekiln Trail in Cypress Creek National Wildlife refuge. Directions: Take I-57 south from Marion, IL, to Ullin exit. Proceed east on Shawnee College Road. There are two trail heads. Turn right onto Cache Chapel Road for the west end; turn right onto Long Reach Road for the east end. The trail parking lots are clearly marked and both approx 4 miles from I-57 exit. The trail is approx 2.5 miles long. While in this area, there are other trails to the east: scroll down this blog to Cache River trails as well as our website for Heron Pond(http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm). I started at the east end.

For the first mile, we alternate prairie and floodplain forest. The refuge people indicate I am looking at giant and green Foxtail vegetation along the way. This wide grass trail is mowed well and small trees have been removed to make the trail. Tall grasses line the edges. Soon this becomes a rim trail overlooking the Cache River swamps. We arrive at a clearing point to view Tupelo and Cypress trees in the water. Note the thickets of Button bush across the river similar to Kudzu. Later, we arrive at another clear overlook with more extensive views of the same in the lake. Note the distant duck blind. Traveling on, there are private property signs - just don't venture off the trail. No fishing or hunting here. Continuing on, we cross two sets of 200-500 ft wood footbridges. Later, the trail becomes an old road thru the forest, and ends at the west trailhead parking. I clocked 1 hr and 20 minutes to complete the trail. Upon contacting their office (618-634-2231), it is suggested that April is optimal for a visit as spring flowers/vegetation proliferate. With heavy rains, a couple spots on the trail could be flooded. More info at the above number or Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. UTM coordinates are 315467 and 4128024.10/05/2011:other coordinates are 89 6' 39.83"W and 37 16' 43.09"N

Indian Point Trail

2010-09-23T14:31:00.009-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series,"Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Indian Point Trail in the Garden of Gods Wilderness Area and part of Shawnee National Forest. This trail was described in the December, 2006 Shawnee newsletter but never got placed on the website. Here it is again.

Directions: From Harrisburg, IL, take Rt 145 south to Rt 34. Follow it thru Herod, IL, and turn onto Karber Ridge Rd. Go about 5 miles and turn at the sign for Garden of the Gods. Turn on this entrance road to the recreation area and follow to backpacker parking lot. The signboard says no horses or rappelling. The trail starts as a continual gradual climb thru a pine plantation. Come to an unmarked junction: Go straight ahead if you only want to access the Indian Point overlook, or to start the loop trail from the cliff base; Otherwise, you can turn left and take in the views from the top of the cliff line and later descend on switchbacks to the base trail. Let's start from the left, knowing it will be easier to descend the switchbacks, rather than a long ascent.

Continue thru the woods until the trail skirts the cliff tops. We have frequent overlooks over distant ridge tops as well as cliff canyons below. Eventually we make a continual gradual descent on switchbacks. Watch for an unmarked junction: turn right and arrive at the base of the cliff line. The trail has been easy to follow due to blue markers.

The cliff line runs approx 3/4 mile with frequent, gentle "up and down" rocky terrain. At the point where the trail goes uphill and touches the cliff, climb uphill off-trail to a 30-40 ft shelter cave. During leaf off, we still have views over distant ridge tops. Note the anvil shaped free-standing boulder. Go another 20 ft and climb up to 2 large caves. One has a right turn inside, making the cave about 75 ft long. Back on the trail, go about 100 ft and climb a major slot canyon. Later on, we approach 2 more shelter caves: 20 ft and 40 ft. After reaching the end of the cliff line, we ascend thru woods to Indian Point with its unobstructed views over the valley. Watch all the buzzards glide thru the air without flapping their wings. The trail continues to the left. Reach the original loop junction and return to the parking lot. While here, drive over to the main parking area for the observation trail. Other nearby trails are described on this blog index. Distance on this trail was approx 2 miles or 2 hrs and 10 min with off-trail exploration. GPS coordinates are approx 37 36' 0" N and 88 23' 0" W. Further info contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Shawnee Saltpeter Cave

2010-08-10T14:11:00.008-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we present Shawnee Cave. In November, 2006 an article appeared in the Sierra Club newsletter for it, but never got posted onto the website; this is a reprint.

Take Rt 127 south from Murphysboro, IL, for 7 miles and watch for the sign at the top of the hill. Turn right and follow the road thru the gate downhill to the trailer and pay the entrance fee: $5.00 per person and kids are free. Always call 618-687-9663 to make sure it is open. The owner's main business is selling firewood and promoting music festivals at the cave. This means he cannot be home all the time. Visit the website at http://www.cavefest.com/ for upcoming music events. No glass bottles or pets allowed.

Continue downhill to the parking area. This shelter cave runs several hundred feet. Note the intermittent waterfall over the rim. Upon following the north end of the cliff canyon, note a bridge. Take this thru another parking lot and resume the trail. At some point it reaches a clearing, turn right. We come to Big Bear Den slot canyon. Further along, we cross a bridge with missing planks and continue downhill to form a loop trail. At some point note a side trail on the left to ascend 5 ft to the base of a pretty cliff line and lake. Little Bear Canyon is on the left as a tunnel thru a cliff. Retrace your route or continue the loop to arrive back at the parking area. Several picnic tables here as well as restrooms. Boating is no longer allowed for insurance reasons.

On the way back uphill to the entrance, we have signs to turn left for rim views. The road is part grass and then gravel. Due to some deep ruts in the road, you may want to park near the entrance and walk, unless you have a high clearance vehicle. Walk about 1/3 mile. There are 4 observation points to look down the canyon, the cave, and adjacent ridge tops. There is a turn around place at the end that loops around a cliff formation. There has also been a line of cliffs along the way on the right. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. The GPS coordinates are N 37.652625 and W 89.321541

Lake Glendale Trail

2010-06-28T11:04:00.005-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the above trail in Shawnee National Forest. Directions: From Marion, IL, take I-57 to I-24. Get off at the Tunnel Hill exit. Proceed thru Tunnel Hill to US 45. Go straight ahead and the road is now called Gilead Church Rd. After approx 12 miles you come to a junction with Rt 147 and turn left. Follow it to Rt 145 and turn right (south). Within 5 miles, turn at the Lake Glendale Recreation Area sign.

Just past the entrance, I turned right on a road which accesses camping, boat docks, and picnic areas. Since we start the 3.2 mile loop trail anywhere, I parked at Cardinal Bay (the road to the beach and major parking area was closed for repairs). We go north and east, cross the dam, and go past the swimming and picnic area. Note that boats are for rent and a sign says no gas-powered boats allowed. This trail will hug the lake the entire distance, including its inlets. I note this trail is easy to follow with graveled tread, and there are many wooden bridges to avoid streams and erosion.

At the first inlet (1.3 mile), I encounter one fast-flowing stream over a sharp-pointed slippery glade and 6 inches deep. This really needs a bridge-talk about a dangerous spot! Shortly thereafter, cross another 9 ft wide stream without a bridge-not as deep. Next I come to an unmarked intersection-go right. I think the other trail heads to Signal Point. We do have bridges the rest of the way. We come to Duck Bay picnic area and rest rooms. Cross the circle drive and resume the trail. Later we run along Cypress trees and knobs in low water areas. From here, the trail runs near camping and picnic shelters. One sign points to a parking area on the main road for Signal Point trail. However, if you scroll down this blog to that trail, you will find an easy way to access that trail without a long rugged hike. This means driving east past Dixon Springs State Park on rt 146 and then back north a few miles on the county road- very scenic and worthwhile!

Finally arrive back at the car with a total time of approx 2 hrs. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. GPS coordinates are 37 24' 53.60N and 88 39' 42.92"W.

Rocky Bluff Trail

2010-05-25T11:12:00.009-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventures in Southern Illinois," we feature Rocky Bluff trail in Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. This trail was previously described in the April, 2006, Shawnee Newsletter but was not posted to the website. Parking in this refuge requires a Crab Orchard $2 sticker, Golden Age or Golden Eagle pass. Stickers may be obtained at the office on Rt 148 south of rt 13, or at Devil's lake concessionaire (open in late spring).

Directions: From Carbondale, take Giant City Road several miles and look for Grassy Road. Turn left and drive 5 miles to the sign for Devil's Kitchen Lake. Turn right, and go to the "t" junction. Turn left, follow across the bridge to the parking area. For those coming from the south, take I-57 to Rt 148 exit. Turn west and travel approx 5 miles and Grassy Road is next to a utility substation and general store.

At the trailhead, note that this is a loop trail-go either way for 1.8 miles. Nice overlook over the canyon at the start. The tread on this trail is excellent and easy to moderate. Also note several benches to rest. We will take the top segment of the trail. The trail starts thru a pine plantation. At 0.18, note a connecting trail to make a short loop. Our trail continues gradually uphill for 0.29 and comes to a junction. Turn left onto this old road. Go 0.26 on this road to a junction with Turkey Trail and Rocky Bluff. Turn left again. Now we have frequent views into deep ravines (especially during leafoff). Note a cliff line on the right down in the valley. We will make a sharp descent on waterbars. The trail then ascends with more ravine views and a mess of downfalls from the May, 2009, wind storm.

Now we descend down stair steps and a handrail to a cliff line which continues for the rest of the loop. This line averages about 10-20 ft high and a creek parallels us on the right. Note the small cave and overhang. Near the end, note the circular cliff canyon and waterfall. The trail ascends to the trailhead via stair steps and handrail. GPS coordinates could not be found but for a reference to topo map USGS 1:24000 Crab Orchard lake. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Wetland Blitz

2010-05-07T15:43:00.005-05:00

Volunteers Needed to Inventory Wetlands in Southern Illinois

The Sierra Club is hosting a Wetland ID Blitz on Sat. June 5 from 9 am - 2 pm. The Blitz is part of a Sierra Club Water Sentinels and Ducks Unlimited partnership to update the National Wetland Inventory for Illinois. Meet at Longbranch Coffee House at 100 East Jackson Street, Carbondale, IL. Bring your digital camera and download cord. We'll train you and send you out to visit 8-10 wetlands in Jackson County. Then we'll meet back together to download photos and compile collected data over lunch. If you do not have a camera, don't let that be a reason not to participate. RSVP to Terri Treacy at terri.treacy@sierraclub.org or at 618-521-1030 by June 1.
We also need inventories done in other southern Illinois counties. So, if you’re interested in working in another county, please consider coming to the June 5 event in Jackson County to get trained and we’ll set you up with the materials you’ll need to work in the other counties on your own.

Project Background - The Wetland Blitz event is for volunteers wishing to visit wetlands in Illinois to help with the field verification for an update of the state's inventory of wetlands. Volunteers trained at the Jackson County Wetland Blitz will be qualified to gather inventory
data independently in counties throughout southern Illinois. Ducks Unlimited (DU) has received an Illinois State Wildlife Grant to update the National Wetlands Inventory for Illinois. For additional information on this project, see http://www.ducks.org/Conservation/GLARO/3752/GISNWIUpdate.html.

Using aerial photographs, DU is currently tracking the fate of wetlands included in Illinois' inventory from the 1980's. To check the accuracy of the photo review, a random 2% of the identified wetlands will require field verification. It is estimated that 6000 wetlands throughout Illinois will need to be visited during 2009 and 2010 to complete the inventory. Volunteers will
be trained to recognize different classes of wetlands. Wetlands which need a field verification will be located close to a road to minimize access issues. A sheet with a map to the site and an aerial photo will be provided on which the type of wetland or its conversion to agriculture, recreation or development will be indicated. Volunteers will also be asked to take and provide a digital photo of the wetland.

Volunteers interested in helping with this important wetland protection project are asked to RSVP to Terri Treacy, Sierra Club Illinois Chapter Conservation Field Staff at terri.treacy@sierraclub.org.

Southern Illinois WeedWatch

2010-04-25T10:47:00.004-05:00

Volunteers Needed for the Southern Illinois WeedWatch Project

Invasive plant species can aggressively overtake or displace native species causing a drastic reduction in our native biodiversity and natural beauty. Discovering weeds before they become well-established is critical to reducing damage to ecosystem integrity, preventing the loss of habitat for rare plants and animals, and preventing costly natural resource management. WeedWatch volunteers will learn to identify, locate and map invasive species within Illinois Natural Area Inventory sites that are located in Wilderness Areas in the Shawnee National Forest.

Will you become an Illinois WeedWatch Project Volunteer?
Volunteers will be trained to:
• identify invasive plant species in southernmost Illinois.
• map their locations using Global Positioning System (GPS).
• record data online into a web-based database.
Volunteers will:
• deepen their understanding of the natural world.
• play an important role in the protection of the unique resources in southernmost Illinois.
• aid land managers to effectively slow the spread of harmful invasive species.
• contribute to the comprehensive regional database of non-native invasive species locations.
Volunteers will agree to:
• attend 2-hour plant ID training on May 5 from 6 to 8 pm at Giant City State Park.
• work in at least one target Natural Area over the summer.
• have fun!

Attention Students!! Earn Saluki Volunteer Corps hours!!

Interested, but can’t make the May 5 date? No problem, contact Terri to discuss other options.

Contact Terri Treacy at 618-521-1030 or terri.treacy@sierraclub.org by April 30.

Max Creek Trail

2010-04-20T11:00:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Max Creek trail. Directions: From Marion,IL, take I-24 to Tunnel Hill exit and follow the road thru Tunnel Hill to US 45. Turn right on 45 and drive a few miles and look for Taylor Ridge Rd (just past a church). Turn left and follow about 3 miles to its end and River to River trail head. There is enough room to park a horse trailer. The last mile of this road leaves something to be desired-avoid it if there has been frequent rains or else have a high clearance vehicle. There is confusion here as the R-R trail has been re-routed but blue blazes on the trees go both north and east. Follow east with the Forest Service number 1737-the R-R hikers use this one anyway. I have not explored the north segment yet. I understand it to be shorter, more scenic, but has 3 creek crossings.

Trail 1737 is an old roadbed thru pine plantations and many downfalls are over the trail. After 40 minutes, we arrive at the top of a bluff line and turn right, switch-backing downhill to the creek. This is a pretty and deep canyon with a long cliff line on both sides. Cross the creek. If you want to see a 60 ft waterfall, go right and bushwhack past 2 large free-standing boulders and head for the base of the cliffs. There was only a thin stream over the cliff on Feb. 15. Back at the creek crossing, a significant number of people have experienced a vortex; manifestations include external air pressure within or against your body, optical illusions, and earth tremors. Turn left at the creek, and follow the R-R trail uphill and travel thru the woods until it ends on a blacktop road. You could make a car shuttle out of this hike. park either on the side of the road, or go uphill to a spot near a chain link fence. GPS coordinates here are 37 29' 39"N and 88 47' 31"W. If you parked here, just go left and drive 1.5 miles to the Tunnel Hill-Simpson blacktop. Turn left, and go approx 3 miles to its junction with US 45.

To clarify the approach from the east end of the hike, cite the junction at Rt 45 and Tunnel hill rd. Go straight ahead (south) as it becomes Gilead Church Rd. Go approx 3 miles to a settlement and a right on Hilltop Lane. Take this 1.5 miles, following the R-R signs. The trail head is obvious. Signage on the trail is good. At one point on the trail, look for four posts and turn left. later we cross 2 narrow stream beds and cascades. Soon we are ready to descend to Max Creek. This means a left turn at the sign. Pay attention as another unnamed trail continues straight ahead. On 3-23-10, the waterfall was dry but the creek was a deep, wide stream. While in this area, why not go the Cedar Wonders North trail-scroll this blog index for info. If you have been following this blogsite, Max Creek is the last link to complete the River to River Trail from Peter Cave junction near Eddyville to Dutchman Lake. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. For more photos, visit http://community.webshots.com/user/river2riverhiker and search for Max Creek.

Iron Mountain Trail

2010-03-29T11:16:00.009-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Iron Mountain trail in Shawnee National forest. This trail was described in the Sierra newsletter Sept, 2006 but did not get posted to the website or lost. Here it is again.
Directions: from Alto Pass, IL, continue south on rt 127 and turn left onto Mt Glen rd (sign for Walnut Grove church). Proceed a couple miles to turn right on Kaolin Road. Follow this to a right turn on kaolin Pit lane. Follow to next right turn and parking lot.
Note the large pond surrounded by ravines. This used to be a mining area for kaolin clay and a company town. After the resource was depleted, it was turned into a fishing pond. Books show a loop trail starting with the overlook near the parking lot. As of this date in January, 2010, that trail segment fizzles out after a quarter mile. The Forest Service plans to reconstruct it this spring. Instead, backtrack east down the road to the white cross and commence this trail segment to the top of the 700 ft mountain. Most of this is a gradual climb and while there are no FS trail signs, the tread seems clear. Note the 1889 ornamental grave stone along the climb. As we ascend, note the deep ravines on both sides of the trail. Near the top, the trail is steep for 100 ft. Now we reach a "T" junction with a north-south trail. Go left (mark this junction so you can find it on the way back). Enjoy the ridgetop views over surrounding valleys and six wildlife pond pits as you travel.
Come to a junction. Turning right brings us to a boundary with Myers Ranch farm -"welcome to pass thru, not responsible for accidents." Note the picnic table in the middle of the trail. Come back to the junction and turn left for more views. Another side trail noted with a sign for Myers horse loop. Pass by an old house foundation from the 1930s. Eventually the trail starts descending into thick woods. I retraced the route back to the car and estimate 1.4 miles from the parking lot to the summit. Another road access to the summit trail is off rt 127. Instead of turning onto Mt Glen Rd, continue past the bridge to an unmarked left turn onto a steep gravel road (FS 606). It is no longer maintained and often deeply rutted. You may need a high clearance vehicle for this. GPS coordinates are N 37.516161 and W 89.311754. More information from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. 10/01/11: the loop is more clear now.hiking past the picnic tables,going up the hill,the trail is headed north. Along the way,look carefully for a left turn where you follow to the top.this used to be blocked by vegetation. Miss this turn and you will continue straight on and will fizzle out.

Hitching Post Trailhead

2010-02-25T14:02:00.006-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series,"Adventures With Uncle Bob-guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the River to River trail section (trail 001) between Herod, IL and Garden of the Gods. This description will start near Herod, although you can embark either way. Directions: From Harrisburg, take Rt 145 south to Rt 34 and follow to Herod. Near the post office turn left onto the blacktop and travel uphill approx 1.5 miles to the well-maintained Hitching Post parking lot (on the left). It is not signed from the road so watch closely. There is plenty of room for horse trailers. Cross the road and commence the hike. This stretch of Shawnee National forest wilderness area is 5.8 miles.

The trail starts out as a FS fire lane and soon becomes a backbone trail with deep ravines on both sides. We come to a junction with #00lE. Go straight ahead or else you will be going in a circle. Later we find ourselves along a beautiful two-layered cliff line. After that, the trail gets more rugged as it ascends via switchbacks. We finally level out on a steep ridgetop and the trail thru the woods is clearly defined. Be on the lookout for at least four places where one can step off the trail onto rock glades for unimpeded overlooks over the valley and adjacent ridgetops. If you went no further than this point, the hike would be worthwhile. Approx GPS reading here is 37 36' 30"N and 88 24' 0"W. we have hiked about 2.5 miles at the best overlook.

We start a long descent and, at the valley floor, please note the trail junction sign. By now your sense of direction has diminished. Trail 001 points to G.O.G. and Herod. We can continue on #001 but there is a more scenic connecting trail (152A) which will eventually meet back up with #001. While trail 152A is not easy to follow during leafoff, you are rewarded with a tall cliff line on both sides of the trail in a narrow corridor. At some point we rejoin #001 and enjoy views of the cliffs below the main observation trail. Note an "H" shaped window arch about 50 ft up the cliff. As we continue on, you will note forks in the trail to either ascend to the Garden of Gods parking area or continue on to the backpacker parking lot. As of this writing on Nov 24, 2009, the trail was not muddy and suggests that views are optimal during leafoff.

If readers plan a group outing on this trail, regulations limit the group to 10 people or horses. This trail runs thru a designated wilderness area in Shawnee National Forest. For any questions, contact Bob Tyson at 618-684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. You may also contact John O'Dell at 618-252-6789.

South Atwood Ridge Trail

2010-01-25T14:18:00.006-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventures in Southern Illinois," we feature Atwood Ridge in Shawnee national Forest. Directions: From Jonesboro, IL, take Rt 127 south for approx 4 miles to turn right on Old Cape Plank road. Go 4 miles on this road as it gives way from farm land to forest. It becomes a canyon road thru deep ravines. This is worth the drive even without doing the trail. Look for a sign on the road which reads Trail 264A/1050E. Turn right and at a split, turn right again and start an ascent on this one lane gravel road. Note a parking lot as well as room for 3 cars opposite it (in case the lot is muddy). We will be walking on this gravel lane the whole distance.

From here the road makes a steep ascent. You can also avoid this first ascent by driving up further to some solid shoulder roadside parking just past the bushes lining the road. The road levels off here and there while continuing to ascend this mountain. Note the deep ravines on both sides as you continue to climb. There are frequent points where you can see distant ridgetops and valleys. Near the end, the road descends and then back up again to its end and space to turn around. I noted a narrow dirt trail continuing from here and without any information, walked a short distance without noting anything of significance. The Forest Service knew nothing of the latter. They indicate that this road was built to augment the logging industry and have no other plans for it.

This outing is best during leaf-off or when fall colors come out. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. While here, why not also drive over to Hamburg Hill Trail on Plank road. Information is on this blog as well as the website: http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm.

Thacker Hollow Trail

2009-12-30T14:14:00.008-06:00

Continuing with our series "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," this month we feature Thacker Hollow. This trail starts at Hurricane Bluff, 1/4 mile east of High Knob trail (scroll down this blog to both places and directions). We follow #106A as it steeply descends the valley after the bluff line. Near the bottom we travel in a canyon between continuous scenic cliff walls on both sides. One problem in this area shows Forest Service directional signs with trail numbers, while equestrian groups put up their directional signs with different numbers on the same route. Due to poor drainage in wet weather, we note horse damage in many places on the trail. We also circumvent downfalls.

#106 ends and we go left on #180 at a junction. Later the cliffs give way to a valley with extremely high ravines on both sides of the trail. At the next junction, go right on #104 (changes to 107). Note the moss-covered cliff walls. We arrive at a junction noted on the green interim trails map as "Initial Tree." GPS coordinates are 37 36' 25"N and 88 17' 47"W. A horse high line is available. Trail #150 on the right heads south. We continue east on trail #005 and blessed with a continuous 45 degree angle cliff lines, 300 ft rock shelter, 35 ft deep shelter cave, and slot canyons. At some point we are on private property (with permission) and come to Blackridge Road. Turn left and walk up the road to follow this cedar glade as far as desired. Shortly, we can turn right off the glade and bushwhack to the north end of Rim Rock trail. Note the staircase. Signs suggest that it is 3.5 miles from where we parked to Initial Tree.

The above description was with a group from the River to River Society. At a later date I went by myself to see if there was a shorter less strenuous route to Initial Tree. Starting at Hurricane Bluff, I descended 106A to the first junction and turned right on #180. It ascended to a scenic boulder area and horse highline. Thereafter it continued thru a pine plantation and eventually faded out before it could join #185. I returned to the car and took Blackridge Road (take Karber Ridge Road past High Knob Road) until I found a small parking area for trail #184. This road is very narrow so one cannot just park along the road. The parking area was a rutted mudhole. The map indicates that 185 should join 185 south, then to #150, and on to Initial Tree. This would be a shorter hike and I am in contact with Forest Service about the parking.On May 25 two of us checked out shorter routes and less confusing trail numbers. From lower High Knob parking, follow the River to River trail east for 1.5 mile(trail newly resurfaced all the way to Blackridge road),and come to an old unmarked parking lot.Get off R-R trail which turns south and go straight ahead on #151 a short distance to a junction with trail 150. It forms a junction with a choice of two directions. go straight ahead on 150. This trail has been reconstructed, goes thru a beautiful cliff canyon with moss covered walls, ravines, and brings you to Initial Tree scenic area . It took 50 minutes to here from that old parking area. At that destination you use #005 to go to the scenic rock caves. Another shorter route is to take Karber Ridge Rd,and go past High Knob rd, and look closely on the left for an unmarked road and has a brown sign as FS 714 upon entrance. Go up the hill,turn right to a FS gate on the road. Park here and walk approx 1.0 mile to the forementioned old parking area.

8/27/2011. found another interesting route. instead of parking on #184 on blackridge rd, go another mile south to park where possible at #183. easier to see now that trail gravel is visible. go west on 183 for little more than a mile on the rim trail above deep ravines until jct with #185. turn left (south)on 185 a short distance to join #182. the latter will take you to #005 and into the initial point scenic area. go east along the cliff line,shelter bluffs. when this ends in a field you are meeting blackridge rd. either re-trace your route or walk the road for a mile back to the car. Upon further note, I clocked 0.9 mile from that point on blackridge to go south to the jct with #001( r-r trail).This gives a short route to still experience some of this hollow.

On 12/28/11, two of us found another loop trail of interest. We parked at #184 (has gravel in the parking area now). note 2 unmarked trails plus signed 184: one is a firelane thru pines to thacker cemetary, and the other just joins 184 later. walking west on 184 has a number of switchbacks along pretty steep ravines above or below the trail. Near it junction with 185 after 20 minutes, note this long cliff lines with small caves, strange formations,and curved walls. We continued to the right on 185 just to view more cliff line and then returned to the junction to go south on 185 and enjoyed more of the same for the next 30 minutes until we turned left onto trail 183. The latter ascends gentilly uphill back to Blackford rd, turn left and walk O.3 mile to the car. Trail tread was excellent. While walking back to the car, we noted trail 105A. We checked it out and found it to be a shortcut to #185: However, it was very steep and rocky.

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 (robkay43@webtv.net) or John O'Dell at 252-6789

Bell Smith Springs

2009-11-23T12:04:00.007-06:00

Continuing with our series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the trails in Bell Smith Springs this month. Directions: Go east from Marion on Rt 13, take Rt 166 thru Creal Springs to US 45, turn right and travel to Ozark, turn at the sign for Bell Smith Springs, and go about 12 miles (turns to gravel the last 4 miles).

At the parking lot, let's turn left on the blue-signed Sentry trail. This has level grade most of the time except for a couple swithbacks. This affords continual rim views into the canyon, which are optimal during leafoff. Initially, there is a Jay's Gap sign to descend to the bottom and access the yellow Natural Bridge trail or to walk along the base of the cliff line west to another staircase to the top. Continuing on the Sentry trail, we cross Chute Gap, which is a cascade flowing between rock walls. 1.5 miles later, Sentry trail descends to the creek. Note the cave on your right-about 20 ft deep, 5' high. At this date the creek was 2 ft deep and I didn't feel like going barefoot at 60 degrees; However, blue markers are noted across the creek as one ascends to the other side to continue the loop. I returned to the parking area junction and proceeded on the white signed trail on the right-going west.

This trail will split: the white continues as a rim trail for a half mile and descends to the trailhead for Mill Branch trail (scroll this blog index for Mill Branch). At the split, I descended the staircase to another white sign base trail which follows a pretty cliff line, turned left at a split and continued under frequent rock overhangs. The trail ends at a sign which says "not maintained beyond this point."

Retuning to the area near the staircase, I find the yellow trail for Natural Bridge. This will involve a creek-crossing without stepping stones. After crossing, look to the right for rock stairs. At the cliff line one can either go right to the base of the bridge or climb the metal rungs for a loop traversing the top of the bridge. This has a span of 120 ft and 22' height. The closest GPS coordinates are 37 31' 0"N and 88 39' 0"W. Another picture of the bridge is at http://www.naturalarches.org/db/arches/illinois.htm (replace Illinois with any state to view other arches). Beyond this site, we are on the blue Sentry trail again (south side). The rim top trail has constant views of cliff walls, opposite the creek. Note the caves and rock shelters. At some point after the trail changed direction, the markers vanished and no obvious path. I returned to the parking lot. Even with the difficulty of making a loop out of the loop trail or avoiding creek crossings, this place is worth your effort. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. During a Sierra hike November,2010,after a summer drought,we were able to make both creek crossings on stepping stones. The first crossing as noted above,is correct for the loop.After doing so,climb up the rocks and the rest of the loop trail will be visible upon turning to the right.

FS 747 Trail

2009-10-23T00:25:00.004-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the above trail. Directions: In Murphysboro, take 20th street south out of town to Hickory Ridge Road. Follow for several miles to a 4-way stop. Turn right and travel to Fairview Church. The parking area is on the right. This was the scene back in the 80's when there was a long-term protest by environmental groups against East Perry Lumber and Shawnee National Forest.
The trail is an old Forest Service road, traversing continual views of deep ravines on both sides of the path. We encounter rock outcroppings several times. The trail steeply desends to a narrow creekbed. Note a spur trail on the righ whch frequently crosses acreek with some nice views. A long ascent follows to a point where we can see Fountain Bluff in the distance. Eventually we descend to a utility right-a-way and electric tower. The trail goes steeply downward to an open field. I retraced the path back to the car. This trail is worthwhile during leaf-off and the distance out and back is approx 2.5 hours. Avoid this one after frequent rains and also becomes overgrown in the summer and fall. Since this is not an official FS trail, it is not maintained.
Subsequent to this visit, I was here after our May wind storm and downfalls block the entry point of the trail. The picture, above, shows an example of serious erosion along the trail. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

Cedar Bluff Trail

2009-09-22T12:55:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our series, "Adventures with Uncle bob-Guide to Self-adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Cedar Bluff trail and a side trip to BORK'S WATERFALL. Both are on Illinois Dept of Conservation land. Take I-57 south from Marion, Ill. to Lick Creek exit. Go east thru the village, continuing about 5 miles, and come to a junction. Turn left and go to Cedar Grove Church parking lot. The trail starts in the woods on your right. It will gradually ascend for 0.3 mile to a junction with the bluff line. The cliff walls average about 80-90 ft and include several rock shelters. Note the wavy texture of the rock formations and pattern lines. Turn left and follow the cliff line until the trail ends at the private property line. Come back to the junction and continue straight ahead on this trail segment along the cliff line. It will end at approx 0.3 mile. Note the 3 story, free-standing boulder, as well as a path to the top of the cliff (don't try this when the soil is wet and slippery). At the top, turn left, and bushwhack a short distance to an unobstructed view over the valley and adjacent ridgetops. This is a major rapelling area. Return to the car.Coordinates are N37.521718 and W-89.022851.

Take Cedar Grove road north from the church about 6 miles (first 3 are paved) and note a parking lot just before a stream which flows across the road. One choice is to walk over the stream and take the rim trail on the east side of the chasm. At some point you will see an obvious place to drop to the bottom of the cliffs and go to the base of the falls. Another choice is to descend the R-R trail by the parking lot and enjoy the cliff lines as you descend on this service road to the bottom. Then turn left at the clearing and pick up the base cliff trail to the waterfall. This flows over a wide shelter bluff and approx 50 ft. Another access to the falls is available by taking Goreville exit on I-57, go east and turn right on Regent Road.coordinates at the waterfall are 89 1' 19.44"w and 37 32' 29.41"N

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

Hayes Canyon Trail

2009-07-20T10:36:00.012-05:00

Continuing with our series,"Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois", we feature Hayes Creek Canyon. Directions: follow Rt 13 east from Marion to Rt 166 thru Creal Springs and to US 45. Turn right and go to Ozark. Turn at the sign for Bell Smith Springs. Continue on Ozark Rd past Bell Smith, past the the junction with Cedar Grove Rd and continue to its end with another blacktop road. Turn right and go to the horse ranch. An alternate direction is at Eddyville, Illinois. Follow the sign thru town to the horse ranch.

Arriving at the ranch, either park by the office or take the 2nd right at the stop sign. At the next intersection, go straight ahead and park by the picnic tables and outhouse. Don't park in any spaces allocated to horse trailers/campers. The signed trail starts here and is well-graveled. Shortly, there is a signed spur to DOUBLE BRANCH HOLE. This top view on a massive stone glade looks out at two waterfall cascades which form a "V" shape. I did find a way to bushwhack to the bottom to take in the view and pictures( difficult to get both cascades into one picture). The main trail seems to veer away from canyon views;However, you can easily walk along the stone glade rim for continuous views into the canyon, which will run parallel to the main trailfor 2/3 of the distance before intercepting the gravel one. Note the shortcut spur to the highway.

At approx one mile, one has to cross a creek on stepping stones and continue west to other trails which lead to Jackson Hole, Blue Hole, Petticoat Junction,etc. Having already done these before, I returned to the car. If the horse ranch gives you any problem with parking there, drive north to the next blacktop road, turn left, and go to Mustang Lane. Once parked, go to the trail junction with Jackson Hole and hike east for 2.5 miles to Double Branch. Scroll down this blog to Jackson Hole for more detail. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

GPS coordinates are 37 30' 03" N and 88 35' 12"W

9-1-09. message from camp owner: don't park where article indicates. go to the center of the campground where the main restrooms are, and park in the labeled lot next to it. hikers can use the facilities. check in at the office first if open. happy trails! 9-15-10. one of our bloggers who is a photographer has provided a super picture that has captured both falls on the same picture at his site:http://www.flickr.com/photos/tkr2099.

10/25/2011: we tooksome trails on the west end of the canyon for exploration. In Eddyville, turn west near the post office and follow l mile to the trailhead for River to River( 001). Take this trail to the jct for 496B and follow across the creek. turn left. Later we junction with 493 and have two choices. We turned right. Soon we observe a pretty cliff line known as Buffalo Bluff. Soon we ascend as a rim trail, looking steeply down to the canyon floor. Step off the trail to peer over it. Soon we veer away from the rim and the trail becomes a muddy quagmire before reaching the jct with 498. We turned left: This will run west and then straight south as awell-graveled trail. We junction with 498J (worn off looks like an I ). Follow 498J back to meet 493 as a loop. Upon reaching the jct with 496B, we continued on 493 for a pretty cliff line. It ended at 001. Don't take 001 back to the car as it is not scenic and much longer; Otherwise, just retrace back to the car on 496B.

Jackson Hole Trail

2009-06-18T11:41:00.009-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Jackson Hole Trail in Shawnee National Forest.

Directions: Follow Rt 13 east thru Marion, Il., then turn south (right) on Rt 166. Travel thru Creal Springs to US 45. Turn right and follow to Ozark, turn left at the Bell Smith Springs sign on Ozark Rd. By pass Bell Smith Springs (ignore the jct with Watertower Rd-it goes to Rt 145) and come to a jct with Cedar Grove Rd. Continue straight ahead for 0.5 mile and turn right on Mustang Lane (used to be called McVickers Ranch lane). Thanks to the tip from one of our bloggers. This road is good for a half mile and suddenly becomes a jeep road near a farm. I talked to the resident, Mr Giuffre, who advised that permission is granted to park on the wide shoulder near his driveway. For those of you with a horse trailer and high clearance truck, continue down the jeep road past the trailhead and look for a trailer parking area. Having parked the car, walk 1/4 mile to the trail junction of #497 and #498. The first one - #497 - says 1/4 mile to Jackson Hole and 2.4 to River to River Trail. #498 says ranch and Double Branch hole. The wide, graveled trail comes to a spur for Jackson Hole: we are on a Cedar stone glade on top of the falls. On this date-Jan 22 - the falls were frozen and so were the glade and rock. Don't attempt to descend to the base of the falls under these conditions. A few months later I was at the bottom to bushwack the base of these 200 ft cliffs. We continue on a user-made trail which goes under a rock shelter and circular cliff line. I noted that continuing further on #497 there is nothing of interest for the next 2 miles until arriving at the jct with Blue Hole trail.

I returned to the junction and went east on #498. The gravel tread was excellent. There is a confusing jct with #493 which says Double Branch trail. Another sign says continue straight ahead for horse camp and Double Branch. Continuing on #498 there are some distant views of the canyon while steeply descending to the creek and entering the horse ranch. I did explore #493 as it has frequent overlooks 300 ft above the canyon floor. The trail is not in good shape. At some point I turned around and returned to the car. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. The GPS coordinates are N 37 30' 30" and W 88 36.555

4-27-10: Since the jeep road section to access Jackson Hole is private property, an owner has closed it-no trespassing. This is because some hunters killed the owner's dog along that section. Hikers will now have to access the trail via Hayes canyon (scroll this blog for directions). A hiking organization may be cleared to access but I will not be publishing the contact person in this blog.

Ranbarger Hollow Trail

2009-04-28T23:23:00.005-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the above trail in Bald Knob Wilderness. See http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm for other trails in that wilderness. Directions: Frrom the south end of Alto Pass, Ill., turn off Rt 127 at the sign for Bald Knob Road. Travel about 4.3 miles on this winding tar road and look for a parking area just uphill from the horse ranch.

We start out on the River to River Trail and soon reach a junction on the left for Ranbarger Trail (#204). The Shawnee National Forest brochure says the trail is 3 miles, but I calculate it at two. The salient feature of this trail during leaf-off is that of a ridgetop backbone trail with continuous views down steep ravines on both sides of the trail. Occasionally, one will be walking in deep gullies filled with leaves. The first junction has Bald Cross Trail on the left. That one has even steeper views of ravines but the trail becomes less discernable after 20 minutes.

Continuing on Ranbarger, the trail winds up and down but not steep. At a ridgetop (about 1 mile), note an unmarked junction-go left and head downhill. It is rocky tread for a short distance. There are few trail signs but the direction seems obvious. At 1.8 mile, another unmarked junction on the right-the sign is laying on the ground: go straight ahead and now steeply descend downhill for a short distance and come to an old Forest Service fence and creek. The Forest Service has extended the trail on the left to cross a deeply eroded creekbed; However, once across, the trail is obliterated by a huge downfall. I traced the route back to the car. The trail is only worthwhile during leaf-off and overgrown with weeds on the trail from May-October. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. GPS coordinates at the parking area appear to be 37 34' 08"N and 89 21' 42" W

Garden of Gods Update

2009-04-12T23:57:00.005-05:00

Many people who visit the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area are unaware of a roadside natural bridge in the immediate area. While checking an article on Garden of Gods Wilderness area on our website: http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm , we have made an oversight of this feature in the article. Directions are as follows: Take the entrance road to the GOG parking area wherein lie the main trail and picnic area. Look for a small parking pull-off with a rail fence. After parking, cross the road and climb up the hill approx 50 yards. On a recent outing, we measured 23 ft wide, 18 ft high, 12 ft thick, and an average of 5 ft away from the cliff line. GPS coordinates 37 36' 04.02" N and 88 22' 42.7" W

Hurricane Bluff Trails

2009-03-19T13:06:00.010-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Hurricane Bluff Trail, Grindstaff Hollow, and FS 106A Trail. All 3 are adjacent to each other.

Directions: Scroll down to High Knob Trail on this blog to get directions from Harrisburg. Rather than park at the picnic/observation site on top of High Knob, go to the lot just before the stone pillars. Cross the road and follow the River to River trail for 1/4 mile and arrive at a signed junction by an old barn. Follow Snow Cone Trail (also known as horse trail 117) a short distance to a massive stone glade with pretty boulders. This is known as Hurricane Bluff. Continue on the trail while enjoying views over the cliffs and ravines. After another 1/4 mile, things did not seem that interesting. Continue past a pond, old grave yard, rotting structures, and turn left at a free-standing chimney. At some point I turned around and returned to the stone glade Hurricane Bluff.

Note two side trails start here: Trail 106A and Grinstaff Hollow. #106 follows the base of a tall pretty cliff line and huge, free-standing boulders for 1/2 mile. At some point the cliffs diminish and the trail descends into the woods. I turned around and returned to the above junction.

Let's take the Grinstaff (#164) trail, also known as horse trail 117A. This trail gradually descends, continually. Salient features include a continuous cliff line up to 100 ft high, slot canyons off the trail, a 30 ft tunnel thru rock, and beautiful rock formations. After a half mile, the trail makes a steep descent, veering from the cliff line, and headed for a boulder-strewn valley. One can bushwhack off-trail to continue the cliff line but the brush impedes progress. I turned around and returned to the parking lot.

Trail 117 has poor tread due to horses; However, trails 106A and 164 have no damage, although they are rocky. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 and robkay43@webtv.net, or John O'Dell at 252-6789. The GPS coordinates are 37 36' 05"N and 88 20' 16"W

Cedar Grove Trailhead

2009-02-11T14:39:00.008-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature this section of the River to River Trail from Cedar Grove Road to Bay Lake. Its length is 3.7 miles, and I rate it at moderate level (alternates between level grade and stretches of up and down). 2/3 of the trail travels on old Forest Service road and the remainder along narrow paths.

Directions: Take Tunnel hill exit off I-24, follow thru Tunnel Hill to US 45, cross the latter and proceed to the junction with Rt 147. Turn left and go several miles to Cedar Grove Road; turn left, and go approx 5 miles, pass Flamini Rd and start looking for the River to River (R-R) trail crossing. Park here and go west. The first 1 and 1/4 miles are not too exciting-some overlooks over ravines. Come to a clearing and note a side trail on the right. I went down this one for 30 minutes and found it deeply rutted due to horse damage and lacks direction near a steep downhill slope. It is supposed to go to Sand Cave.

Back on the R-R trail, we walk out of the woods onto Flamini Rd. Turn right, walk past a couple residences and re-enter the woods. Tread is rocky. Come to a three-way junction: go straight ahead or slightly left. Later on we come to another junction with Ruby Falls trail-go left. Soon we encounter a steep grade and walk along the base of a high ravine. Note the boulders on top of the ravine. We can see the edge of Bay Lake now. Later we come to a cliff top glade with a lookout over Bay Lake dam and the surrounding ridgetops ( pictured above). From here the trail descends to the county road. Up ahead you will find a junction to continue the R-R trail west for 2.4 miles to East Trigg trailhead, or to turn right for the lake.

I turned around and returned to the car. Due to places where the trail is narrow, you may not want to do this trail when all the leaves are down. Put this hike together with 3 other trails indexed on this blog (Peter Cave, East Trigg, and Cedar Wonders) and you will be able to follow the River to River trail from the west section of Hayes Creek Canyon to Tunnel Hill-Simpson blacktop road. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

GPS coordinate for Cedar Grove Rd 37 29' 31"N and 88 38' 28"W.

East Trigg Trailhead

2009-01-13T10:51:00.009-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature this River to River Trail section (trail 001 or blue "I" on signs) which connects East Trigg trailhead with Bay Lake.

Directions: From US 45 at Ozark, Ill. turn left and follow the sign to Trigg Forest Tower; However, the trailhead parking area is approx 3 miles north of the tower and will be on your right. Watch closely since there is no sign on the road itself. Alternate directions are from I-24 Tunnel Hill exit. Follow thru Tunnel Hill, cross US 45, and follow to Rt 147. Turn left, go a few miles, and watch for signs to Trigg Tower. Again, the trailhead is north of the tower.

Cross the road after parking and we head east. The first 1-1/4 mile is steadily downhill, but not steep. Nothing of interest is noted. This is an old forest service road. As we approach the big culvert under the elevated railroad bed, the trail is rocky for a short distance. Go thru the culvert-now the trail is narrow, but flat. The next mile or more is impressive. We are running parallel with the railroad track, averaging about 75 ft above us. Below the tracks, we are continually viewing either a cliff line or steep ravine. In some places, vegetation is over the trail but the path is discernable (don't come here in tick season). At a later point we have a confusing junction: Note the gate on the right. You need to turn left and cross the small creek on stepping stones. Continue straight ahead on the roadbed and reach the junction with county road 463. This spot is marked with R-R(River to River trail) signs both ways. If you want to continue on R-R to Cedar Grove Rd, continue straight; otherwise, turn left and go 1/4 mile to Bay Lake. If you drive up from county 2 off Rt 147, you better park here at this junction and walk unless you have a jeep.

The Bay Lake area is very interesting. We are on top of an extensive rock glade. Below the glade are isolated rock formations, featuring a slot canyon. A trail continues across the top of the dam affording scenic views high above the lake. Upon crossing, there is no indication where this unsigned trail leads. I turned around to retrace the route back to the car. At the railroad culvert, note trail 049 heading north. That trail had some similar cliff and ravine views until I found it blocked by downfalls at some point: it may go to Jackson Hollow. While here, drive over to Trigg Tower and climb to the top for fantastic views.

At the junction of two roads near the tower, there is a wide trail which will join the R-R trail after 1/4 mile. It will go to Cedar Wonders on Gum Spring Rd. Nothing of interest was noted on this section except for one view of a steep ravine. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. There is confusion as to whether GPS coordinates are for the trailhead or for the fire tower,but try this:37 30' 0"N and 88 42' 30"W. Upon second visit,be aware that you will get wet trying to cross that creekbed after a wet spring. o7/07/2011. when tree cover is thick,it can be harder to see the parking area on trigg tower rd. If so, look for the river to river trail white and blue marker on the opposite side of the road from the parking area as your hint to look for the opening. On a further note, the brown sign at us 45 and Ozark, may say bell smith springs instead of trigg tower: turn left here no matter what. 10/05/2011: The Forest Service states that the coordinates at the tower are 88 44' 10.08"W and 37 29' 15.90"N.

Fountain Bluff Update

2008-12-10T13:35:00.005-06:00

Recently I planned to hike on the river trail in Fountain Bluff. After one-fourth mile there now is a gate across the old rail bed and no tresspassing sign. This pretty trail runs between a continuous tall cliff line and frequent views of the Mississippi River and bayous. I sent a letter to the owners about permission to hike. Check this blog index for a previous update on Fountain Bluff canyon. A good overview of trails in Fountain Bluff can be accessed at our website: http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm. Scroll to Fountain Bluff and Tyson Canyon. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net i do have permission from the owner, however since the 2008 inland hurricane, the trail is demolished. Further updates on fountain Bluff: GPS coordinates for the top of Fountain Bluff road are 89 29' 58.95"W and 37 41' 36.85"N. The coordinates for the township road running along the base of Fountain Bluff are 89 29' 58.91"W and 37 41' 56.51"N.

Blue Hole Trail

2008-12-10T13:19:00.005-06:00

Continuing with our series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the above trail this month. Find directions from this blog index for Peter Cave Trail. Again, we park at the River to River trail crossing on Cedar Grove Road, go east, and 1.5 miles later, arrive at a junction with two trails: Peter Cave and Jackson Hole. We take trail #497 (Jackson Hole). The sign says 2.2 miles to Petticoat Junction.

This Shawnee National Forest trail is adequately marked. While not level grade, it is not steep. We eventually reach Blue Hole after approx 1.5 mile. The creek water does have a blue reflection. This is a pretty cliff line, confined to a small area. Cross the creek on stepping stones to walk the base of the line. On the right, note the long line of shelf overhang as well as the small cave to the left. There is a pole line to tie up horses. Trail #497 goes north from here to Jackson Hole-still says 2 miles and a steep climb. I went one mile on it and did not that the trail is well-graveled on top-a lot of work went into this endeavor.

Back at Blue Hole, I took trail #496A. This pretty rim trail continues to parallel the creek until it seems to end at a creek crossing. Cross it on logs and arrive at Petticoat Junction. There is nothing of significance at that area. It is literally a junction of 3 trails. #496 does continue north. I turned around and returned to the car. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net .GPS coordinates at Petticoat are 37 29' 44"N and 88 36' 39'W.

Indian Bluff Trail

2008-11-12T11:18:00.005-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure," we travel across the border to visit Indian Bluff Trail in Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park.

Directions: Cross the Shawneetown, Illinois bridge on Rt 13 and the highway changes to Kentucky rt 109. Follow for 53 miles to Dawson Springs, Ky. Pick up 109 again in town and travel 10 miles to the park entrance road. Park at the lodge. The trail starts on the road to the right of the swimming pool.

The PNT trail will double with our trail for a while. Indian Bluff starts as a moderate climb thru Oak-Hickory forest and then levels off to a pretty, extensive cliff line. The trail passes thru a large shelter bluff and then descends to the valley floor and golf course entrance. Cross the road, continue on Clifty Creek Trail along the streambed. We travel along the base of a long ravine, dense vegetation, and fields of ferns. Go left to arrive to arrive at Pennyrile dam. Walk on top of the dam and ascend to your parking lot. Our journey was approx 1.5 mile.

There are 5 other trails in the park: descriptions suggest 4 are nature trails and 2 are strenuous. While in the area, we were in the Jones-Keeney Wildlife Area attempting to locate the natural bridge without success. Later, I am led to believe that one should go west on US 62 about 10 miles from town and turn at a cementary, ascend the road and look to the southeast of the plot. While traveling to the park, why not also visit Mantle Rock Nature Preserve (88 ft natural bridge): http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm.

For further info, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

Peter Cave Trail

2008-10-09T11:38:00.008-05:00

Continuing with our series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the above trail this month. It is unclear whether this is on Shawnee National Forest land or that of a willing landowner. Respect the "keep out" signs on the side trails and land.

Directions: Tunnel Hill exit on I-24. Follow thru Tunnel Hill, cross Rt 45, and proceed to Rt 147. Turn left and go several miles, and look for Cedar Grove Road (just before the Rt 145 junction). Turn left and proceed approx 2.4 miles, keeping your eye out for the River to River Trail crossing signs. Park on either side of the road and walk east (right) on the R-R trail. It starts out as a narrow trail thru pine plantations for 0.5 mile. Now we encounter an old forest service road-turn left. 0.5 mile later, we reach Crow Knob Ecological area. This is a pretty, circular bluff, although brush impedes circling the bluff at its base. You can walk on the top. Continue another half mile to a couple marked side trails. One is trail 497 to Jackson Hole; the other is for Peter Cave (no trail number). I estimate the distance to the cave as 1.1 miles. It seems to be adequately marked; however, there is a stretch of trail heavily damaged by horse traffic and no way to circumvent it. This trail is level grade up until the end approaches. Now we suddenly descend into a valley where beautiful tall cliff walls form a "U" shape configeration. Note the pole line where you can tie up horses. Climb up 30 ft to enter this huge rockhouse/shelter bluff (not really a cave). I estimate the length at 200 ft, depth at 75 ft,and 30 ft high. Take time to also hike along the base of the cliff line. Two other trails from Hayes Creek Canyon terminate here too so make note of your trail as you return to the car. Remember to turn right upon reaching the junction with R-R trail.I cannot find GPS corrodinates for the cave;However,here are the ones for crow knob which you pass on the way to the cave:37 29' 55"N and 88 37' 56"W. During a 2010 Sierra hike in the winter,there was a 60ft waterfall flowing over the top of the cave-spectacular!

I'll deal with Jackson Hole trail in the future when finding an easier access is found: Trail 497 is a real "gut buster" in the first 2 miles. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Walk-Away Trail

2008-09-17T11:20:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature the above trail in Lake Murphysboro State Park. Directions: From Murphysboro continue west on Rt 149 for a few miles and watch for the brown park sign. Upon entering, come to a "T" junction and go right. Continue east about a half mile and turn left into Big Oak campground where there is parking at the trailhead. I estimate this moderate level trail at approximately 2 miles total. This trail lacks for maintenance, judging by vegetation over the trail, downfalls over the trail, and rotting wood bridges; However, it is clear enough to follow.

The trail traverses a valley surrounded by ravine walls and climbs to a ridgetop. We cross a park road and continue on with similar features. Upon crossing another bridge, note a side trail on the left (a bench is close at hand). I took this side trail for a half mile until it disappeared. The prominent features are unobstructed views of extremely tall trees.

Back to our junction at the bridge, turn left and continue the main trail uphill where it becomes a ridge trail with continuous views of the valley floor. We reach Razorback Point. Follow the staircase to the floor. Turn right, and traverse the valley for a while until it climbs back up to the top of the ridge, making a loop at the intersection. Turn left and follow the trail back to the parking lot. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Or check out the state park at www.dnr.state.il.us and click on lake murphysboro state park.

Dutchman Lake Trailhead

2008-08-20T15:12:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature a section of the River to River Trail which starts near Dutchman Lake and terminates on US 45.

Directions: Take I-24 to Tunnel Hill/Goreville exit. Turn left and travel approx 2 miles and watch for Dutchman Lake Road. Travel on that road approx 4 miles and continue past the lake entrance to Bowman Bottoms Road. Turn left, go under the freeway, and come to an unmarked old Forest Service road. Either park roadside or on the small lot with the ecological area sign. Note the R2R trail marker about 100 ft up the hill.

As the trail ascends moderately, we pass a small bluff line. Further along, we cross several utility right-of-way clearings, affording us distant views across valleys. Next we go around a small lake and start a descent into a steep valley. We arrive at Big Bay Lake. The trail continues on top of an earthen dam. Note the dark brown cliff wall carved out from the hill. Next we cross Tunnel Hill bike trail. A nice overlook of the valley floor can be had from the nearby bridge. Continuing on, we traverse some scenic ravine views and our trail becomes a rim trail over a bluff line.

Near the end, our trail is on private property (no tresspassing off the trail) and we end up by residences on US 45. My time for this journey was one hour and 40 minutes. Across from US 45 is a building with a sign -"Red Rooster." It appears that hikers could park there if one wants to travel the opposite way on the trail. I turned around at this point and retraced the route back to the car. The trail is wide and well-marked. One note of caution on this return: On the second to last power line crossing, look for a sharp right turn (R2R sign on a pole); continuing straight ahead would take you on an endless circle. GPS coordinates at the midpoint appear to be 37 29" 39"N and 88 50"31"W. When i was here again Sept.,2010 some trail markers are missing so i abandoned the effort. The R-R trails group said they would deal with it. Another approach would be to take the Tunnel Hill bicycle trail 2.5 miles to the 90 ft tressle and get off onto the trail either left or right.During a hike 02/13/2011, it is noted that signage is repaired. If you started from us 45 going west, once you approach the second urility rightaway,turn right and walk the rightaway for 1/8 th mile or so, then turn left and reenter the woods(r-r sign is there); likewise, if you started near Dutchman lake going east, look for the clearing after the crossing of the bike trail. Upon approaching the clearing,go straight ahead and turn left on the obvious path and look for the r-r sign to re-enter the woods. Another adventure is to walk the bike trail from Tunnel Hill for 3.2 miles and then get off on the River to river Trail. The bike trail will cross 3 tressles, including one that is 90 ft above the the valley.

This section is also noted in the River to River Trail Guide Book. Photo courtesy of the River to River Society. Further information from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net.

Amidon Conservation Area

2008-07-15T10:43:00.008-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventures," we feature Cedar Glade Trail in Amidon Conservation Area. This area was featured in the Shawnee newsletter in late 2004; however, it has disappeared on the website and newsletter archives. Here it is again.

Directions: Cross the bridge at Chester, IL, and take Mo 51 thru Perryville, Missouri. Continue on 51 south for a few miles to County J (look for the fire tower). Drive approx 10 miles on J, look for the brown Amidon sign, and drive 0.9 mile on Rt 208 to the parking area. Cedar Glade trail is one mile in length. The Castor River, over time, has cut into the pink granite rock to create gorge-like chutes between the narrow shut-ins. The trail is at times both at river level with roaring cascades, as well as above it, becoming a rim trail on stone glade. At a point where the trail makes a right turn to leave the canyon, take a side trail for an overview of a gray granite glade which looks like a jigsaw puzzle put together. There must be 50 acres of this glade.

While this may seem like a short trail to be worth the drive, why not combine this with two trails at Perryville: Perry County Community Lake loop and Ball Mill Natural Area. Descriptions of both at: http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm. coordinates are 37' 33.099 latitude and 91' 47.469 longitude. As of May,2009 there was an inland hurricane with substantial damage here-better call a dept of conservation office in Cape Girardeau first to see if it has been restored.

Amidon area is further described in the book: Conservation Trails-A Guide to Missouri Dept of Conservation Hiking Trails. Further info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net

Cedar Wonders North

2008-06-16T18:12:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we re-visit Cedar Creek Wonders in Shawnee National Forest. A previous article featured the south end of this area and is indexed on this blog. Now, we visit the north end. From Tunnel Hill, Illinois continue south to the junction with US 45. Go straight ahead and set odometer for 2.4 miles. Turn left onto this narrow gravel road and go approx 2 miles to its end. There is enough parking for 3-4 cars but don't block the gate.

This trail starts out as a rocky wet gully between woods and a field, then encounters a powerline clearing. Walk down the clearing and look for the River to River Trail signs (R-R ). Soon we are at the base of a cliff line. While on the signed trail, bushwhack about 50 ft off-trail to go thru a canyon maze and also view a 10 ft deep cave. Up ahead is a huge cliff overhang. Return to the trail and we descend to parallel the creek. This creek will junction with another creek from the west. The R-R trail crosses one creek to continue straight ahead. YOU WANT TO TURN RIGHT(note a lime green dot on a tree and my orange ribbon). Follow along this creekbed approx 0.2 mile and look for an obvious path to ascend to the base of the cliff line. You are in for a treat! We will travel along a continuous cliff line for the rest of the jouney on this user-made trail. Along the way, I found a rock tunnel, rock shelters,and pretty rock formations. Soon we encounter a waterfall over a rock shelter. After viewing, cross the creekbed and continue the trail.

About a mile later, we cross another small creek and ascend a faint trail to a junction. Both segments are marked with a green dot. Go left. We are going to see a free-standing natural arch about 15 minutes away. Along the route, look above you for a small arch sandwiched between two cliff layers. Our destination is the natural arch. I measured it at 8 ft high, 6 ft wide, and 3-4 ft thick. I have not continued beyond this point and re-traced the route back to the car. Upon return, be sure to note the junction with the two green dots and make the descent to the right(miss this and you could get lost).

I estimate the distance from the car to the arch at 2.5 miles. The trail has continual short ascents and descents. The trail tread is rocky since it follows the base of thee cliff lines. Optimal views of the opposite sides of the canyons are best after leaf-off. on 3-2-11, upon reaching the natural arch, we found out that you can continue straight ahead on the trail and it will descend to th creek and hit the junction with the River to River Trail. Turn north(left) on it and have a shorter route back to the trailhead, rather than returning via the canyons you followed to the arch.
More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or robkay43@webtv.net. You may also contact John O'Dell at 252-6789. There is no map of this area from the Forest Service.

Fountain Bluff Trails

2008-05-12T14:01:00.007-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature an update on FOUNTAIN BLUFF in Shawnee National Forest. There has been two previous articles on our website ( http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm) which highlighted several trails in this place: Tyson Canyon, Mississippi River Trail, petroglyphs, and Happy Hollow Road. Now an additional feature is accessible which I will name Waterfall Canyon.

From Murphysboro, take Rt 149 west to Rt 3. Turn left and travel to the village of Gorham. In town, turn onto Second Street which will become Fountain Bluff Township Road. As you drive along the base of this tall bluff line for a mile, look on the left for a small parking area with a 5 ft waterfall. As of May, 2008, someone has put up ladders to enter the canyon. I don't guarantee that vandals could walk off with them. Despite the effort to climb up to the canyon floor, you will be rewarded with 3 big rock shelters, a waterfall cascade, a user-made trail between canyon walls on both sides, and a spectacular view of the moss-covered walls converging to a width of 5 feet. Upon narrowing, note the natural stairsteps continue to ascend as far as you can see. I did not follow up very far as the cascade made the surface slippery.

For further questions on this area, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643

(Photos courtesy of the SIU Student Environmental Council)

Rice Hollow Trail

2008-04-09T10:59:00.009-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Outdoor Recreation in Southern Illinois," we feature Rice Hollow Trail.

Directions: Travel south from Herod, Ill on Rt 34 to Karber Ridge Road. Turn left and follow to the town of Karber Ridge and note the turnoff sign for High Knob Recreation Area. Follow High Knob Road, continuing past the horse ranch, and look for the Rice Hollow sign at the bottom of the hill. Turn onto this lane and park where possible without impeding traffic from a farm further up the lane. The sign says trail #137 and also horse trail #109. Upon inquiry with the Forest Service as to why several trails have dual numbers or why trail numbers do not match what is printed on the maps, I have yet to receive a clear answer.

The first 0.2 mile is deeply rutted due to horse traffic during damp weather; however, the problem eventually becomes diminished. A long pretty cliff line appears and stays with the hiker for the next 1.5 mile. We encounter overhanging blufftops, slot canyons, and two caves behind cliff columns (see picture above right). There have been no further trail markers but the tread is obvious. As the trail descends, we now have cliff lines on both sides of the trail. The trail will cross a narrow creek several times but stepping stones are plentiful. Eventually, both cliff lines converge to a width of 30 ft and we cannot easily continue.

As I start re-tracing the route, an unmarked trail to the right is noted. Soon into this trail, a pretty cliff line appears. The shelter bluff is estimated at 80 ft in length. The next feature is an odd shaped boulder. Continuing further, there is a sign saying you are on horse trail #110 (see picture, above left). This would eventually end at Buzzard Roost on the River to River Trail (#001A). This becomes steep and hard to discern at some point. Rice Hollow is also supposed to be accessible from off #001A going west from High Knob trailhead but that spur trail is hard to follow. I continued to re-trace my route back to the car.I cannot find coordinates on this location, however the ones for the nearby horse camp is 37 36'0N and 88 20' 0"W

There appears to be no publications on Rice Hollow Trail. You may not want to do this one in early spring when creek levels are up. For further information contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643, or John O'Dell at 252-6789 (River to River Trail Society) 10/01/2011: that unmarked spur is the second left turn-don't turn on 137 or 137a. the shelter cave is known as robbers cave.

Cache River Trails

2008-02-27T13:28:00.007-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Your Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we highlight the Cache River State Natural Area and National Wildlift Refuge. Directions: Take I-57 south to the Ullin exit. Travel approx 10 miles to Rt 37. Turn north on 37 and go 2 miles to the parking area for section 8 boardwalk access. This short walk thru swamp ends with a view of the state champion Water Tupelo tree. Continue north on this road to Barkhausen Wetlands Center (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). The center has an impressive display of the natural and cultural history of this wetland. Note that the Tunnel Hill bike trail starts here. Backtrack a short distance and turn right onto Perks Road. At the first access area, turn in to note two eagle nests in treetops. Drive further on the road to the sign for the Lower Cache Access Area. Restroom and picnic facilities are here. One handicap accessible trail takes one to an observation platform over the swamp and a view of the state champion Bald Cypress. Back in the parking area, take the 2.5 mile swamp trail for a more intimate setting, bisecting Cypress and Tupelo swamps. Views are more limited in the first mile due to a forest of 8-20 ft tall Canebrake.

Drive back to the junction with Rt37 and Ullin road and turn left on to Rt 169. Near the town of Karnak, turn left onto Urban (formerly Porterhouse) Road. This delightful road goes 2 miles thru the middle of a swamp, crosses the bike trail, and comes to Big Cypress Tree Trail. Close to the parking area is the 1,000 year old Cypress tree with a base circumference of 40 ft.

Take Rt 37 north to Rt 146, turn right and proceed to the sign for Wildcat Bluff. Follow this road about 6 miles (well marked) to the parking area. This is the Upper Cache River section. Two trails start here. The one mile observation trail on the left offers rim top views into the Cache River bottoms during leafoff. Note the pretty cliff walls and rock shelters below the trail. You will encounter one spot on the trail as an unmarked junction: go right on the spur trail to reach an overlook. Return to the trail and continue until it ends in a brush pile. Backtrack to the starting point at the signboard. Just to the left of the concrete wall is an easy place to descend to the cliff base. The signboard indicates that the other trail going west travels to Boss Island and Heron Pond. Expect to get your feet wet due to creek crossings. On that trail, I noted another place to descend to a nice shelter bluff line at the second DNR tree diamond.

Leaving this place, turn on to the road which takes you to Rt 45. Along the way, there is an unmarked fork: go right. At Rt 45 turn right and go to Belknap Road. Along the way to Belknap, there is a sign for Heron Pond swamp. (This was already described at http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee. Click outings and then scroll to the bottom for self-adventures with uncle bob.) At Belknap, follow the sign to the Cache River Natural Area office and then follow the one-lane road to the parking area. Two trails start here at Marshall Access. The Tupelo trail says 2.4 mile loop. After a mile, the loop starts at a junction. Take the left fork and descend the cliff line to the swamp with picturesque Tupelo trees. Forget the right fork-poor signage. Back at the parking area, the other trail heads northeast. Except for a pretty cliff line near its beginning, the remainder is a walk in the woods.

Trail brochures are available at Shawnee National Forest offices and any Cache River visitor center. More information from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 The GPS coordinates for Wildcat Bluff are 88 55' 46.32"W and 37 22' 35.05"N. The coordinates for Heron Pond are 88 54' 35.80"W and 37 21' 12.93"N. The coordinates for Big Cypress access are 88 58' 59.61"W and 37 18' 33.69"N.

Lusk Creek Wilderness

2008-01-29T14:51:00.002-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," this article takes us to the north section of Lusk Creek. A previous article on this area covered the southern section, also known as Indian Kitchen (see http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm).

Directions: take Rt 145 south from Harrisburg. A few miles north of Eddyville look for the turn for Circle B ranch. When this tar road curves right (south), you need to go straight ahead on a narrow, unsigned, gravel road. Travel approx 3-4 miles and look for a trailhead parking lot. Walk across the road and start the hike for trail #481. The sign says 1 1/4 mile to Saltpeter Cave and 1.5 mile to Natural Bridge. Prior to August, 2007, this trail was a 6 inch wide horse-damaged mud hole with numerous, user-made junctions. Now we have excellent tread and user-made trail junctions have been roped off (plus explanation signs).

The trail gradually descends and passes steep ravines. At one point we encounter an unmarked "T" intersection. Mark this spot so you don't miss it on the way back. Go right-the trail is rocky for the first 1,000 feet. Later we travel along bluff lines on both sides. Another unmarked fork appears. Don't take the one going uphill. We arrive at a junction with Lusk Creek. You have a choice of turning right for Saltpeter Cave or cross the creek on stones to visit Natural Bridge. I made a loop of both, bringing me back to this spot. Across the creek, a pretty cliff line awaits us as well as the bridge. It appears to be 50 ft long, 4 ft high, and 30 ft thick. Trail 481 ascends to become a rim trail. Note a junction for Secret Canyon: I walked a mile or more on the latter thru woods. There was a fork where one path took me to trail #001 (river to river trail) and the other went to a ravine bottom with no further signs. Trail 481 comes to a junction with trail #457. Turn right and travel a short distance to Saltpeter Cave. For a closeup views, one needs to cross the creekbed. Walk both ways along that cliff line to view 3 major shelter bluffs (cave is the wrong term). Cross back and continue #481 a short distance to another creek crossing. Upon crossing, note another unmarked junction-go right on #486. We soon close our loop next to the Natural Bridge creek crossing. Turn left and follow #481 back to the car.

If you are ambitous for a long prettier hike and don't mind getting wet, here are the directions to the same forementioned features: Park at the Circle B ranch trailhead. Walk south 100 ft and take trail #001. After 40 minutes you arrive at Lusk Creek. Turn left onto trail #457 and follow this muddy, narrow trail to Old Guest Farm Creek Crossing. Trail #457 will continue north on the other side of Lusk Creek and junctions with #481 about an hour later.

Back at our parking lot for trail #481, I note that this county road travels further east to provide access to #457D and #483, but a high clearance vehicle or jeep would be advisable. Ask for the green Shawnee 2007 Interim Trails map at ranger stations for further assistance. More information from Bob Tyson at 684-5643. Due to creek crossings, I would avoid this hike during early spring.

GPS coordinates at natural bridge 37 32' 8.13"N and 88 32' 48.25"W

High Knob Trail

2007-12-27T13:21:00.003-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we highlight High Knob Trail. From Harrisburg, follow Rt 145 to Rt 34. 3 miles south of Herod, look for Karber Ridge Road. At the settlement of Karber Ridge, look for a small sign to High Knob. After a few miles, turn right at the horse ranch (note that the River to River Trail crosses the road to head toward Garden of the Gods). This rocky road climbs steadily to the viewpoint parking lot. Picnic tables and restrooms are noted.

Walk back down the road and find the blue markers for the loop trail. The first one is on the left(east). I walked a little further to the next marker and commenced the trail. I estimate the loop at 1.5-2.0 miles. This spectacular trail runs continually in a circular fashion along the base of cliffs. Prominent features include shelter bluffs, many slot canyons, small caves, rock formations, and unique patterns in the rock. The terrain is rocky but relatively level; Some places have descending stone steps, as well as a small wood staircase. The midway point even has a rough-hewn picnic table. Trash cans are along the route. Near the end, there is a steep ascent for 100 ft thru a narrow stone staircase between boulders.Before ascending,I hope you noted a cave which enables you to walk in 30-40 ft. Bring a flashlight.

In the parking area, note the blue markers going north from the restroom. This path accomodates those who only want to do part of the loop. As you drive back downhill, note two other trails which head east (one is the River to River Trail to Camp Cadiz). Both are a sea of mud due to horse traffic. The River to River Trail is running parallel to the road as we drive by the horse ranch. High Knob is briefly mentioned in the book, Fifty Nature Walks in Southern Illinois. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643. GPS coordinates are 37 36' 0.01"N and 88 19' 41.70"W october,2011: while talking to the owners of High Knob campground at the bottom,we are advised that new cabins are available for hikers and riders. Call 618-275-4494. this horse ranch sits on the River To River trail as well as High Knob trail, Rice Hollow trail and many others. The road up to High Knob sometimes is closed without notice. You can call that number to see if open or closed before making a long trip; Don't count on Forest Service staff to know.

Cache River State Natural Area

2007-11-30T23:32:00.001-06:00

This outing was scheduled for Sunday Dec 2 and the weather report confirms thunderstorms most of the day. If anyone is still interested in this outing, please call me to indicate what day(s) you are available between Dec 3 thru Dec 9. If i note that at least 4 agree on a date, I will re-schedule. phone (618) 684-5643. Bob Tyson

Hickory Ridge Trails

2007-11-26T13:51:00.003-06:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Shawnee National Forest trails along Hickory Ridge Road.

Directions: Follow south 20th street from Murphysboro until you ascend a hill near a church. Turn left onto Hickory Ridge Road. This road is paved all the way to Pomona. After several miles, we arrive at a four-way stop. Turn right. Note a FS trail near Fairview Church. Forget this overgrown trail-no prominent features. Continue on to the sign for Little Grand Canyon. That area was already described at http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm. Set your odometer and drive 1.2 mile to an unmarked firelane on the left (just past Mason Concrete). Park here and walk if the lane is muddy; if not, drive in to the turnabout. The ridgetop trail has good views during leafoff. Note the unmarked trail junction. I took the left fork for a while. It suddenly makes a very steep descent to the bottom of a circular cliff line. Returning to our junction, I took the right fork. At some point there is an ATV spur trail steeply descending to the base of pretty cliff walls. Returning to the right fork, the trail makes a gradual descent to go on forever. I turned around after 40 minutes.

Back on Hickory Ridge Road, drive another 1.3 mile and arrive at a gate (on your left) at the bottom of the hill. This is FS 741. This old roadbed trail runs approx 2 miles. During leafoff, our walk affords unobstructed views of the cliff line. At some point, note a large canebrake patch, creek, and boulder. Bushwhack left about 100 yards to find a pretty rock canyon, waterfall, and a shelter cave to the upper right. Back on the trail, we cross a powerline clearing and continue into the woods. We soon navigate a huge canebrake forest and the trail ends at a creek. In the spring, I noted acres of blue flowers. ,As of May 2009,due to an inland hurricane we cannot follow the trail past the powerline clearing. Unfortunately the remainder of the trail took us to several buzzard roosts high up in the trees. very impressive!

Retrace your route back to the car. Drive about 100 yards to a trail on the right (FS 346C). The first segment traverses a Pine plantation. The trail is often muddy due to ATV riders. Just before the creek, look to the left and follow a long cliff line to its end. Note the unique texture of the rock. Retrace this 0.5 mile back to the car.

Drive another 1.2 mile to find Wolfe Creek Trail. There is a vineyard on the left: continue approx 200 ft and park on the shoulder near a log pile on the right. This faint trail travels in a northwest direction thru woods to reach the start of continuous 2-3 mile cliff canyon. Prior to reaching this point, you will have passed the foundation of an old CCC camp. There is no defined trail in the canyon; Just stay close to the base of the cliff line to avoid getting lost. Do not continue past the waterfall without permission of the landowner. The private property boundary starts here, even though there is no sign. In autumn, the stretch of road from Little Grand Canyon to this point is a continuous blaze of yellow leaves.

The photos are of the bluff line on trail FS 346C and the rock cave along trail FS 741.

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643. the GPS coordinates for fr 741 are 89 22' 55.20"w and 37 40' 7.90"w.

Cedar Creek Wonders

2007-10-24T13:29:00.001-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Cedar Creek Wonders in Shawnee National Forest (this unofficial trail is not on the forest map). Directions: From Tunnel Hill village, go south, cross US 45, and continue straight ahead (Mt Gilead Rd) for approx 6 miles. Just past the church, turn left on Gum Springs Rd. Travel about 2-3 miles to a concrete bridge and note the parking area on the left. Cedar Creek divides the canyon. Take the user-made, half mile trail on your right (north).

We follow a pretty continuous cliff line along with 3 shelter bluffs. Note the solid yellow buffalo petroglyph along the last shelter bluff. The trail seems to end at a huge boulder. It would take a strenuous effort to overcome this obstacle. Upon re-tracing my route back to the car, note a faint trail which can take one to the top of the cliff line for a view over the canyon during leaf-off.

The River to River Trail crosses this area. I followed it west on the south side of the creek for over a mile but no prominent features were noted. It will come out again on Gum Springs Rd about 3 miles further north. I also followed it east from the parking area. There is an unmarked junction after a quarter mile: turn right, cross a bridge, and ascend uphill. No prominent features were noted after a couple miles. A future article will describe another trail in Cedar Wonders which also includes a free-standing natural bridge.

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or John O'Dell at 252-6789
Photo courtesy of the River2River hiking group. See more photos of this scenic area at
http://community.webshots.com/user/river2riverhiker

Piney Woods Ravine Nature Preserve

2007-10-24T13:14:00.002-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures With Uncle Bob-Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Piney Woods Ravine. An article on this area was published in 2001-2 but has disappeared off our website and the Shawnee newsletter archives. This is a re-print.

Directions: Travel west from Murphysboro on Rt 149 to Rt 3. Turn right (north) and drive approx 15 miles. Look for a brown sign as you approach the Randolph County line. Turn right on to Hog Hill Rd and continue up the switchbacks. You will soon arrive at a junction-follow Rock Crusher Rd for several miles until the sign appears again for the preserve. Another 3 miles will bring you to its parking lot.

We start out along a line of trees to an open field. Turn right and find the signboard at the woods. This trail is well-marked as we descend the canyon. We arrive at a junction and note this is a loop trail. Go straight ahead and cross the creekbed. Upon doing so, take the spur trail on the right to visit the petroglyphs. Return to the main trail and hike north and east thru the woods. It finally descends into another canyon with waterfall cascades, stone glades, and pretty cliff walls. The trail ascends and now becomes a rim trail with frequent views down into the canyon. We arrive at our initial junction, turn left and return to the parking lot. I estimate our loop as 2 miles. An alternate route to this place is to follow Rt 4 to Campbell hill, il and note the sign for the preserve,turn left onto Rockcrusher rd. Go approx 5 miles until the sign for turning onto the road for the preserve.

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 Photo courtesy of Monika Plumb.

Panther Den Wilderness

2007-09-24T13:09:00.005-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we offer an update from a previous article written on Panther Den (see the December, 2002 posting http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/news/news.htm).

Directions: From Carbondale, take Grassy Road south to Rocky Comfort Rd. Turn right and follow the signs to Blue Sky Winery. Just past the winery, turn left on Panther Den Road and follow to Panther Den Lane. The county has now reclaimed this lane along with road improvements. This lane will end at a new Forest Service parking lot and can accomodate 6-8 vehicles. The other parking area near Panther Den Road junction is still available.

Both trail loops start here. Let's take the one on the right. This access trail will meet the River to River Trail after 1.5 mile. I turned right (east) on the latter out of curiosity. This muddy, horse damaged segment traveled continuously uphill for 2 miles to end at Fairview Road. No prominent features were noted. The new forest map shows Trail #386 intersecting this trail. I also explored that trail for a short distance until it disappeared into thickets.

Returning to our junction with the access trail, I continued on the River to River trail west to the cliff canyon area. There is an unmarked trail on the right which follows the base of the cliff line for 0.5 mile. That trail passed several slot canyons and ended in a pretty circular shelter bluff. Return to the maze of cliff walls which includes a 50 ft long tunnel cave thru rock. After exploration, continue on the River to River trail as it ascends the valley, passes a small bluff line, and three creek crossings. This muddy, horse damaged trail gets worse. We finally reach a junction: The R-R trail turns west. You want the white diamond access trail straight ahead (note the concrete block). This will follow ravine bottoms back to our parking lot. Trail maps are available at the Murphysboro ranger station. More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643. GPS coordinates are 37 34' 47.46"N and 89 5' 17.25"W 04/01/2011:new trail segment 382 now runs about 1.5 mile and branches off R-R trail from east of the den. It reconnects with R-R on the north end before you ascend to the ridge. Features are ravine views and walking thru pine plantation. It by-passes the main feature of the rock maize. Be careful on the return part of the loop: the sign back to the parking lot gets vandalized and you may end up following the R-R trail when it makes a sharp turn to go east and end up on Rocky Comfort road. error: trail 389,not 382. In June,1011 it is noted that the trail marker is often stolen at the point where the R-R trail suddenly turns sharply west. In order not to get lost and return to your car,just continue straight ahead thru this long ravine even if there is no trail tread. It will bring you to the parking lot.

Mill Branch Trail

2007-09-24T12:51:00.002-05:00

Continuing with our monthly series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we feature Mill Branch Trail in Bell Smith Springs.

Directions: Going east from Marion, take Rt 166 thru Creal Springs to US 45. Turn right and proceed to the Village of Ozark. Turn left at the brown sign for Bell Smith Springs and follow approx 10 miles to its entrance road. Rather than driving all the way to the deadend and main parking area, turn at the sign for Hunting Branch Picnic area.

Upon parking, cross a small creek bed and look up to the right for the red diamonds. There is also a white diamond trail straight ahead that will take you to a huge shelter bluff; beyond that, the trail just goes in circles. Our red trail is a 2 mile easy rim loop trail and its main features include frequent views into massive stone glade canyons and waterfall cascades. Near the end of the loop, there is an unmarked trail junction; turn left and continue downhill back to the parking lot.

While here, consider driving on to the main parking area where there are more trails, including the yellow diamond Natural Bridge Trail. Brochures are available at Forest Service offices. Any questions, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643.

9-25-10. If the Forest Service still has the turn into Hunting branch Picnic area blocked, continue to the main parking area for Bell Smith Springs. Go to the stone overlook and take the trail on the right as a rim trail. Go about 1/4 mile, descend on the rocks to the bottom, and commence the trail behind the signboard.

Buzzard Point

2007-08-22T13:22:00.002-05:00

Continuing with our on-going series," Adventures With Uncle Bob - Your Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois", we feature Buzzard Point. This is part of the Garden of Gods Wilderness Area (scroll this page index to Trail #112, as well as visit http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm.

Directions: take Rt 145 from Harrisburg to Rt 34 and follow thru Herod. South of town, turn onto Karber Ridge Road. Turn at the Garden of Gods sign. Instead of turning into the main area, continue north on the switchback county road until you see the River to River trail crossing. Park on the gravel shoulder. You are now hiking east on that trail. This will travel approx 3 miles to another parking spot on High Knob Road. The first mile is scenic, and then becomes unspectacular until near the end. Expect to dodge mudholes due to horse damage.

Upon hiking about 0.3 mile on the trail, look to the cliff line on the left. Follow along this user-made spur trail to visit several slot canyons and scenic formations. This trail is obliterated when a large rock shelter comes into view. You may want to bushwhack further along the cliffs to reach a nice natural bridge (go behind the bridge and climb up to the top of the cliff line to reach Buzzard Roost: nice overlook over the area). Come back to the main trail and continue along the cliff line to Buzzard Point lookout. While taking in this magnificent view, note two nearby spur trails on the left: one climbs rocky ledges (Buzzard Roost sign) and travels thru a pine forest to reach the stone glade roost. The other is horse trail #110. The Forest Service has changed this to Trail #158 on the new map. This latter trail runs at least one mile along a scenic cliff line and beautiful rock formations.

At some point, the cliff line seems to disappear and the trail is not easily discernable. I know it is supposed to eventually reach Rice Hollow, as I have seen its junction from Trail #137 in the hollow. We will re-trace our route back to the River to River main trail. Go right to return to the car, or go left and follow the trail to your car shuttle on High Knob Road.

As to setting up your car shuttle here, just continue about 50 ft past the horse camp and look to the left for a gravel forest road which will descend to the parking lot.

For more information, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643.

Burden Falls

2007-08-22T13:10:00.002-05:00

In our on-going series: "Adventures With Uncle Bob - Your Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we offer an update on Burden Falls. Directions: From Marion, go east to Rt 166 and follow this road thru Creal Springs to US 45. Turn right, and go to Ozark. Turn left and follow the brown Bell Smith Springs signs. After several miles, there is a junction: the right fork points to Bell Smith Springs, and the left to Rt 145. You want to go left. There used to be a Burden Falls sign.

Upon parking at the falls, walk across the stone glade and locate a rim trail on the east side of the canyon. This trail will deadend at approx 0.3 mile. Look down upon a raised boulder which has a hole underneath it. Crawl thru this hole and easily descend to the bottom of the falls. The previous article took the hiker along the west rim trail for some distance before descending to follow the rugged base trail to the falls.

For any questions, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643. This wilderness area was previously featured at: http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm.GPS coodinates 37 33' 48.49"N and 88 38' 32.62:W

Trail #112

2007-07-24T13:22:00.002-05:00

As part of our on-going series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Your Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois," we turn our attention to Trail 112, also known as FR 1621. The new Shawnee Forest Service Wilderness map indicates the trail numbers will change. This is part of the Garden of the Gods Wilderness Area (see http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm). Directions: From Harrisburg, IL., take Rt 145 to Rt 34. South of Herod, take a left on Karber Ridge Road. Turn north at the sign for Garden of the Gods. Instead of turning left into the main area, continue north on the county road. After the switchbacks, look for an unmarked road on the right with a wood sign. Now we are driving beside a cliff line for a half mile.

Look for a small parking area on the right. Cross the road and descend along trail 112 a short distance to view a pretty natural bridge and its adjacent keyhole in the cliff. It is approx 4 ft high, 20 ft wide, and 5 ft thick. You can go behind it to climb up a bluff for distant views. Come back to the road and walk west about 1,000 ft and note a user-made trail along the cliffs, starting with a 20ft deep rock shelter. Continue on past interesting rock formations, a cave, and slot canyons. Further on, note the huge shelter overhang (30 ft high and 20 ft wide). Pass a couple more slot canyons and note the line patterns as the cliff line curves. At some point, brush impedes further progress and I return to the car. While this trail involves some bushwhacking, you will not get lost while staying along the cliff line.The GPS coordinates at the arch are 88 21' 48.30"W and 37 36' 26.55"N.

More info from Bob Tyson at 618-684-5643 or John O'Dell at 618-252-6789.

Hamburg Hill Trail

2007-07-24T13:07:00.002-05:00

This trail was previously featured in our on-going series: "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Your Guide to Self-adventure in Southern Illinois", in our June, 2005 Shawnee Group newsletter( see http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/news.htm). The previous article described the first couple miles, starting from its southern trailhead on Old Cape Road; This is an update from the north end of the trail (I could not find it until last year).

Directions: From Rt 146 at Jonesboro,Il., go west and turn left on to Berryville Road. At the first unmarked junction, go right and travel until you see the sign for Water Plant Road. Follow this road thru the plant and ascend the steep grade to the top of the hill. Park near the old water tower. Hike downhill on the eroded, old roadbed. Near the bottom, as the steep ravine suddenly tapers off, look for a faint trail on the left. It will soon widen as an old forest road. You will enjoy viewing the steep ravines, cliff walls, and wetlands.
My first hike on this trail was in the winter when leaf-off made the cliff line more prominent. My last hike in early April featured an impressive display of wild flowers across the wetlands, as far as the eye can behold. The total distance is approx 4 miles; Why not park cars at both ends for a shuttle? 10/05/2011: forget this trail. Recently I checked both ends and can no longer find the trail. It has been overtaken by vegetation in the last 2 years. The Forest Service indicates no plans to work on it.

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643

Cove Hollow Trail

2007-06-22T13:42:00.002-05:00

This is an update to a previous article in our on-going series: "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Your Guide to Self-Adventure"( see that article at http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm).

1. Assuming you started from the trailhead on Cove Hollow Road, the trail will wind along the cliffs for approx 2 miles before you reach a signed trail junction. About 0.2 mile prior to that junction, notice an easy access to the top of the cliff line which has a nice cave. It looks to be 20 ft deep, 5 ft high, and 10 ft wide.

2. The signed trail junction leaves something to be desired. The mileage is wrong-it should be 4 miles from Cove Hollow Road to Pomona Boat Dock Road (park on the latter for a car shuttle). The sign says go left on the trail for Cove Hollow; Go right for Wolf Den Hollow. Both trails will merge back together in less than a mile, and continue to that Pomona Road. I recommend taking the left fork if your interest is scenic cliff lines. The Wolf Den Hollow segment travels thru ridgetop wooded areas, surrounded by ravines.

3. If you traveled north from the boat dock road, the same trail intersection occurs. No signage here. I recommend taking the right fork. For further questions, contact Bob Tyson at 618-684-5643. GPS coordinates are 37.639446 and -89.29056

Cave Valley Trail

2007-06-22T13:24:00.002-05:00

As part of our on-going series:"Adventures with Uncle Bob-Your Guide to Self-Adventure in Southern Illinois", we turn our attention to Cave Valley Trail.

Directions: Take Rt 127 south from Murphysboro. Turn at the sign near Pomona for Natural Bridge. While traveling the gravel road north toward the bridge, look for a Forest Service gate and parking area on the right before ascending the steep hill. This trail is an old level-grade forest road. At approx 0.5 mile on the trail, look for an ATV spur trail on the left which will climb steeply to a line of cliff walls. Follow the unmarked trail either direction at the top until it deadends. There are nice views of the valley during leaf-off. Back on the roadbed trail, we are soon looking down into a marsh or wetlands(depending on rainfall) on both sides of the trail, as far as the eye can see. This is a natural area for non-game birds and protected as a nesting preserve. The next point of interest along the way is a marked spur trail which will take you to a large wildlife pond.
Our 1.5 mile trail ends at a wide eroded creek. One could continue across the creek on a trail if you don't mind getting wet. Re-trace the route back to the car. Views of the cliff line from the trail are better on a sunny day during leaf-off. The only detailed information on Cave Valley consists of one page in the Shawnee National Forest DEIS proposal book.

While here, why not continue up the road to Pomona Natural Bridge. The object is viewed from a short walk down steps from its parking lot. The span is 90 ft, 25 ft height, and 10 ft thick. The best photo can be viewed at www.naturalarches.org/gallery-ilpomona.htm. The GPS coordinates at Cave Valley are 89 20' 37.39"W and 37 38' 27.21"N.

For any questions, contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643.

Eagle Mountain Scenic Area

2007-05-25T14:12:00.001-05:00

This is a further installment of the on-going series: "Adventures with Uncle Bob-Guide to Outdoor Recreation Opportunites in Southern Illinois".

A Hiking Guide to Eagle Mountain

This area is bisected by the Crest Trail which starts at Glen O.Jones Lake and ends near Old Stoneface. Directions: Take rt 145 from Harrisburg and turn at the sign for Glen O. Jones Lake. You will travel approx 6 miles until the road comes to a "T" intersection. Go right and look for the next road on your left (the sign is turned the wrong way: It should say Eagle Mountain Road). Follow this steep switchback road until it levels off. Look for a boulder along the road surrounded by two trails forming a "V" shape. Either park along the road or travel another 100 yards to a primitive campsite parking area. (see http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm for a partial description of Crest Trail).

At the boulder, take the left trail and soon come to a beautiful boulder-strewn area. The brush between boulders impede an in-depth exploration; However, it is easy to climb up for overlooks. The trail continues steeply downhill and comes to a junction near a long cliff line. Go left to follow a faint trail along the base of this interesting cliff line until the brush gets thick. Return to the junction, go straight ahead, and look for two ribbons on a tree. Turn left and follow the yellow marker leading to the rim trail.

Walking along the rim trail, 75 ft above the valley floor, affords numerous overlooks on the left. Another layer of cliff line (about 20 ft high) is on your right. The line tapers off at some point and I return to the trail junction at the base. If you get confused on which of the three trails return to the top and your car, look for the one with the yellow natural area signs. I have found no brochures for this area. You may want to avoid this road in the event of winter ice, or after heavy rains.

More info from Bob Tyson at 684-5643 or John O'Dell at 252-6789. The GPS coordinates are N37.669867 and W 88.436112.

Uncle Bob: Jackson Hollow

2007-05-09T07:40:00.001-05:00

This is an update to a previous article written on exploring Jackson Hollow in Southern Illinois. See our website at : http://illinois.sierraclub.org/shawnee/unclebob/adventures.htm

1. While hiking on the north side base of the cliffs, having passed the waterfall, you are on trail 402. When you get to a junction with trail 403,make a side trip on the latter for a short distance ..to view a balanced rock resting above a 20 ft boulder. Return to 402 and continue on to the railroad track. Re-trace your route back to the rim access.

2. You may also want to visit the west side of Jackson Hollow by driving down Trigg Tower Road. Just before the horse ranch, look for a small parking area on the right and an orange electric utility box on the left. Park here, walk south about 50 ft and cross a stone glade area. Head downhill and look to your right. You will find a circular rock shelter about 500 ft long , and approx 20 ft deep. A great geological wonder! Photos are available at http://community.webshots.com/user/river2riverhiker. On the search line write: jackson hollow illinois.GPS coordinates are 37 30' 46.99N and 88 42' 5.65 W

Swayne Hollow Nature Preserve

2007-05-04T07:40:00.000-05:00

This is a further installment of the on-going series: "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Guide to Outdoor Recreation Opportunities in Southern Illinois."

A Hiking Guide to Swayne Hollow (8 acres)

This public area was acquired in November 2006 by the Illinois Nature Preserve Commission. It is 0.5 mile from the Piney Woods Ravine Nature Preserve (see the November 2001 Shawnee Trails newsletter for that hike). The trail is not yet signed, but I did an explore it last December.

Directions from Murphysboro: Take RT 149 to Rt 3. Turn right and travel approx 15 miles to Hog Hill RD (brown sign). This pretty road will soon become Rock Crusher Road. Follow the brown signs to Piney Woods. Upon arrival, by-pass the parking area and continue another half mile to the tree line. I parked along the road and followed an old path downhill to view a stream flowing under a pretty boulder area. The path seemed to vanish at some point. Returning to the car, I drove a short distance to the opening across from an abandoned barn. An ATV path went steeply downhill to the confluence of two creek beds where I viewed a long pretty cliff line and rock formations. There was no way to cross the creeks and follow the rest of the cliff line which veered in a southward direction. I continued west on the user-made trail which afforded overlooks of a creek bed, surrounded by a rock canyon on both sides. Either re-trace your route back to the car or walk uphill to an open field. Turn right and ascend back to the county road. Turn right on that road and walk less than 0.3 mile back to the car.

The Illinois Nature Preserve Commission's mission is to protect the Shining Club Moss, Ground Pine, Chokeberry and Cinnamon Fern species, as well as the aforermentioned geological scenery. No maps are available to the general public (except the one sent to me by the local contact person). For those with compass or GPS, look for USGS topographical map Welge 7.5 minute Quadrangle, Swayne Hollow, Randolph County. For more information, contact Bob Tyson at 618-684-5643 or Judy Dempsey at 687-1169.

Signal Point Trail: Adventures with Uncle Bob

2007-04-08T15:50:00.000-05:00

This is a further installment of the on-going series: "Adventures with Uncle Bob - Guide to Outdoor Recreation Opportunities in Southern Illinois".

A Hiking Guide to Signal Point Trail

This trail was first described in our December, 2003 newsletter. It involved a rugged two mile hike from Lake Glendale Road up to its prominent feature. Last year I became aware of an improved road which takes the hiker within one-third of a mile, thru level terrain, to reach Signal Point.

Directions: Take RT 146 past the entrance to Dixon Springs State Park. Continue east downhill to the first road on your left. The green sign marking is illegible. Travel north approximately 4 miles. When the road curves sharply right, pull off into a grassy area near the pine trees. After you walk about 0.3 mile on this wide trail, you will find yourself on a blufftop overlooking the forested valley. At the first stone glade take a short descent to the valley floor and look for a trail on the left. Now you can hike almost a mile along the base of this cliff line.

Notice the unique wavy patterns in the walls, rock formations, and cascades of water from the top of the bluffs. Upon reaching the end of the bluff line, a short switchback to the top brings the hiker to a "T" intersection. The trail to the right traverses a pine plantation which continues "forever". I didn't hike its full length so I don't know where it goes. I speculate that this trail would connect with the Bluff Top Trail at the state park (See the October, 2006 Shawnee Trails newsletter for this hike).

Back at the intersection, turn left and follow it to the the top of the cliffs to complete the loop and return to the parking area. Along this gladetop hike, note the plant communities and overlooks. Be sure to follow the gladetops, not the ATV path. Equestrian groups maintain the base trail; unfortunately, ATV riders tear up the vulnerable parts of the trail when the soil is damp. This trail is on Shawnee National Forest land; however, the ranger stations have no brochures on this trail. I had to get one from the Lake Glendale concessionaire.

For further information contact Bob Tyson at 684-5643.

Adventures with Uncle Bob: Trail of Tears State Forest

2007-02-27T13:34:00.001-06:00

This is a further installment of the ongoing series, "Adventures with Uncle Bob" -- a guide to outdoor recreation opportunities in southern Illinois.

A Hiking Guide to Trail of Tears State Park
Directions: Take IL Rt 127 south from Alto Pass. After approximately 5 miles, look for a brown sign and turn right on this county road. You are now on a scenic road that winds through a canyon and eventually ends at Rt 3 by Wolfe Lake. Watch for a sign that says "North Forest Road". (This road is closed to auto traffic from mid-November to April 30 each year.) This well-maintained narrow road is one-way (east to west) and winds through forested ridgetops for roughly 5 miles. Near the end, it descends through a pine plantation and into a tree nursery. After another half mile you will come to the county's North Forest Road.

This area has abundant picnic facilities and accomodations for equestrians. Along the way you will find frequent views into ravines. Note the numerous signed fire and horse trails (sufficient parking is available at each). I hiked a number of the trails, but did not observe anything that I couldn't view just walking on the road. Equestrians have a trailer parking facility on the county road one-half mile west of the forest road sign. An access trail from that facility leads to the trail system and road.

Drive further on the county road to the picnic area and sign to locate South Forest Tower Road. This is also a one-way, traveling west to east. This road similarly traverses forested ridgetops for three miles and ends at the county road. No horses are allowed on this one. There are also a number of picnic and restroom facilities.

I found the South Forest Road to show more scenic views across ravines than the North Forest Road. While one can drive a vevicle on this well-maintained road, walking the road enhances the total experience. It has a number of fire and hiking trails. Note the gated old fire tower. At the picnic area, you can hike a shorter route to the fire tower on the Heritage Trail; however, that trail is very steep.

Trail brochures for this area are available at the White Barn visitor center and also at any US Forest Service ranger station. For more information on this destination, contact "Uncle" Bob Tyson at 684-5643 The GPS coordinates for the parking area to climb up to south forest tower road are 89 21' 41.36"W and 37 28' 49.36"N. An editor labeled this area wrong. This is Trail of Tears State Forest. The Trail of Tears State Park is 10 miles north of Cape girardeau, Missouri.

Get Acquainted With the Night

2007-02-10T19:57:00.000-06:00

I have been one acquainted with the night.
I have walked out in rain -- and back in rain.
I have outwalked the furthest city light.
I have looked down the saddest city lane.
I have passed by the watchman on his beat
And dropped my eyes, unwilling to explain.
I have stood still and stopped the sound of feet
When far away an interrupted cry
Came over houses from another street,
But not to call me back or say good-bye;
And further still at an unearthly height,
O luminary clock against the sky
Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.
I have been one acquainted with the night.
~ Robert Frost

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Greetings Shawnee Sierra Club Bloggers

2007-02-05T21:43:00.000-06:00

This is my first voyage into posting on a blog. So far, it has been easy. I just have to remember my password. Hey, if I can do this, so can you!

The latest news from Shawnee Group is that we have two new lobby liason volunteers to help with lobbying our state representatives - Rep. David Reis from Olney and Rep. Brandon Phelps from Harrisburg. If you are interested in becoming a member of our Illinois Chapter Lobby Corps, please let us know - here on this blogspot, or call Barb at (618) 529-4824. You must be a Sierra Club member to be part of the Corps. You do receive training and support! Also, you do not have to travel to Springfield. Just lobby your state representative at his/her home office in a town near you! We will even make sure another member comes with you for the interview. We will give you briefings on the bills that we are working on.
If you have questions and think you may be interested, do not hesitate to call me (Barb).

Also, we are in the process of planning an Energy Film Fest, which will take place March 22-31st. If you would like to help with the film fest, please let me know (Barb, 529-4824). We need help with hosting the presentations and also with publicity. Don't hesitate - we need you! The films are all dealing with some aspect of Global Warming, Energy Conservation, Alternative Sources of Energy, etc. It is part of the National Sierra Club project to bring these films to places across the U.S.

Welcome

2007-02-04T00:00:00.000-06:00

This is the new home blog for the Shawnee Group of the Sierra Club in Southern Illinois. (Lower, dark green territory of map)

Content will include:

Announcements

Alerts

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Updates on group sponsored outings and guides to your next adventure

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