Garden of the Gods - Karbers Ridge, Illinois

Step back 200 million years, hiking scenic bluffs and challenging trails through the sprawling Shawnee National Forest, which stretches between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Start out with the easy 1/4-mile Observation Trail to view outstanding sandstone rock formations such as Camel Rock, Anvil Rock and the Devil’s Smokestack. Then head on to the winding River to River Trail.

This 3,300 acre wilderness ranks 10th in the United States for photographing sandstone rock formations and high vistas. Five miles of trails are part of the River to River Trail, and some are difficult.

Location: Off Hwy. 34, Karbers Ridge, Illinois

Phone:618-287-2201

Written by Travel Writer · Filed Under Southwest