Trails to Trek

Distance Yourself in ILLINOISouth!

What is the one commodity that is available to everyone, free of charge, good for all ages, provides ample social distancing, and is great exercise? Nature trails of course! They're made for walking, running, biking and horseback riding. Some provide phenomenal views, while others are easily accessible for those with strollers and wheelchairs. As the weather warms up, so many of us will be chomping at the bit to get outside and burn off some energy – and we would love to see you do it in our 22-county region of ILLINOISouth!

Salt Lick Point in Monroe County

Andy Burns

There are a few trails that have a higher degree of difficulty, but the sights are well worth the extra effort! One such place to hike is Piney Creek Ravine, which straddles the Randolph and Jackson County lines. Widely considered to be a hidden gem in our region, Piney Creek Ravine can be a little tough for beginners – simply because of the wet, slippery surfaces you have to venture across to follow the trail. Piney Creek Ravine does offer AMAZING scenery in caverns and flowing water, as well as the largest collection of prehistoric rock art in the state – which can be found carved into one of the many bluffs at this amazing recreation area.

Silver Lake in Highland

Midwest Nomad Family

Fults Hill Prairie Nature Preserve in Monroe County is another trail with great views, but requires quite the hike to enjoy them. Upon arrival at the trail, you’re immediately greeted by a flight of stairs that takes you up a bluff about half a mile or more. Once you reach the top, the views are tremendous. It’s not uncommon to see eagles and other large birds soaring around the top of Fults Hill Prairie − giving an added reason to visit and take in nature’s beauty. If you’re up for an entire day of hiking in Monroe County, we also highly recommend Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve, White Rock, and Paul Wightman Subterranean Nature Preserve.

In Wabash County, Beall Woods State Park provides five different trails to hike − all of which are flat and easy. The great thing about Beall Woods is that it is one of the very few remaining tracts of virgin timber east of the Mississippi River. Folks can experience trees that are more than 12 stories tall, and over three feet in diameter! For another long yet easy hike, head to Washington County State Recreation Area just four miles south of Nashville. There is a seven-mile-long marked trail that circles the lake, and provides for an easy walk with tons of scenery.

Piney Creek Ravine in Randolph County

Midwest Nomad Family

For those that are looking for paved trails − providing easy paths for wheelchairs, bikes, and strollers, St. Clair County is home to several. The MetroBikeLink system features 14 miles worth of paved trails along the MetroLink transit system from the Shiloh/Scott MetroLink Station to the Memorial Hospital MetroLink Station in Belleville. There is also a new extension to the Fairview Heights MetroLink Station to explore as well! In Mascoutah, Silver Creek Preserve is a 1.1 mile paved trail with great views of surrounding wetlands.

There are also several different parks in ILLINOISouth that cater to those that love to take their four-legged friends horseback riding. One of the longest equestrian trails in southern Illinois can be found at Stephen A. Forbes State Recreation Area in Marion County. Here, a 15 mile horse trail circles the lake − offering horses and riders a panorama of natural beauty. Red Hills State Park in Lawrence County is another solid destination for horseback riders, offering a five-mile trail for equestrian use when soil conditions permit. Enjoy the outdoors in ILLINOISouth!

Sam Dale Lake in Johnsonville

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