If you have been planning for the best hikes in Shawnee National Forest, this is your call. Every year, tourists from all over the world take in the beauty of the Little Grand Canyon. Standing among the on-lookers, you, too, will be taken aback by what lies before you. From breathtaking views of bluffs, waterfalls, rock formations, and rock windows, there’s so much waiting to be discovered!
Connect with a sense of adventure and come along to explore the Little Grand Canyon in the Shawnee National Forest—a backpacking adventure on paths less travelled. When you get off the “corridor” to explore the other side, beyond the most populated trails that take visitors to the common picnic areas, you’ll find incredible views, excitement, and solitude.
Read on to know the best reasons why you should be exploring the Grand Canyon in Illinois!
Little Grand Canyon: A brief
Although there are several ways to explore the breathtaking trails in the Little Grand Canyon, the National Park has a lot more to offer. There is a trail that is ideal for you, regardless of whether you want to explore the area’s wild side or just follow the journey.
Why should you come here and explore? The list of reasons is endless. But we have compiled a list of the top six reasons to set out on the Little Grand Canyon adventure.
1. Solitude
If you wish for a quiet experience, get off of the well-maintained trails. When you exit the corridor, you will find fewer people as you hike—-meaning there’s more likelihood of seeing wildlife! Plus, you can have campsites to yourself, which is one of the best things about the Grand Canyon trips.
Quiet leads to heightened senses. Take in the pleasant scent of the sage and listen to each wren’s echoes. Picture yourself falling asleep to the sound of a creek. And then, you wake up to chase a mule deer around your tent. You won’t see this kind of solitude in the corridor, so go big!
2. History
Many trails here are said to have started as Native American pathways that were then used by miners and people looking for shelter. A trip to this region can lead you to experience trails steeped in the canyon’s mining history. Keep your eyes open as you hike, and you may even see artifacts of greater historical significance.
3. Adventure
The Tourism Department regularly maintains the corridor trails. But the greater adventure starts on the other trails in the canyon, which receive little maintenance! When you hike the trails that have not been maintained over the years, you are actually in the wild. If scrambling around boulders and shimmying through slot canyons is what you call fun, consider exploring the less-traveled paths of the Little Grand Canyon in Illinois.
Also, read Hiking Trails in Illinois You Don’t Want to Miss
4. Photography
A side trail at the top of the asphalt walking path is worth the effort. It provides visitors with an extensive view of the Big Muddy and Mississippi Rivers. Even the magnificent white face of Swallow Rock is visible to the north. Imagine watching sunsets over the wooded landscape and snapping excellent Instagram-able pictures!
5. Challenge
Hiking the Little Grand Canyon as a beginner is not simple. Going here usually involves heightened feet of elevation. There isn’t an easy way to reach the bottom of the canyon—–and every hiker who makes it there feels an unmatched sense of accomplishment.
If you have come this far, or you are a hardcore hiker who enjoys long days, you can take some of the most challenging and secluded trips guided by experienced ones!
6. Epic Scenery
When you get off the beaten path, you will discover campgrounds, lakes, and magnificent views—some of which you’ll have to yourself. Those of you who are willing to hike the less-traveled trails will be rewarded with plenty of stunning views of the canyon to behold.
Also, read Top 5 Southern Illinois Lakes For Bass Fishing.
The bottom line
Set out on an adventurous trip like never before. Explore the stunning Little Grand Canyon in Illinois and take back memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime! For more information about the best places to visit in Southern Illinois, read our blogs here!
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