Looking for good places to hang in southern Illinois

**Kona dawg** · 01-03-2016, 17:26

How far down the trail would you estimate the "x"?

**AndyG** · 01-03-2016, 17:29

I had my kid with me and it was Summer so we camped at the Red Bud campground. If I go again I'll do the 8 mile loop and camp out along the trail somewhere. Stealth like

How was the creek? Was the water up? Having any problems getting there? I was going to go hike the loop at St Francois SP in Missouri tomorrow but this thread is making me want to go to the Shawnee!

X is approximate, but I wouldn't say any further than 3 miles from the backpacker parking lot.

**Kona dawg** · 01-03-2016, 17:34

Sounds good. I crossed the creek with hiking boots but had to look for rocks. We hiked backed to Boulder falls and couldn't believe with all the rain, were only at a trickle. We back tracked because on the map it looked like the loop crossed the creek a few times and scared we couldn't cross and short on time. Actually had to get the headlamps out to get back. Nephew loved the cliff ladder

**AndyG** · 01-03-2016, 17:35

R2R guidebook says 2.38 miles from the backpacker parking lot to the scenic outlooks.

GPS is
16s 03 761 61e 41 624 84n
and
16s 03 761 48e 41 625 02n

**AndyG** · 01-03-2016, 17:38

Cool pic, I haven't seen that ladder! Yeah, I definitely wouldn't want to get caught in that valley in the dark, especially with the cold and damp. When that loop isn't crossing creeks it's on the ledge of some high drop offs, too. Sounds like a fun excursion!

**Kona dawg** · 01-03-2016, 17:56

The ladder is right down from the natural bridge. We were looking for it but never saw it til we got on top and then saw it. It was pretty cool. Thanks for coordinates.

**SwingingInTheBreeze** · 01-06-2016, 01:01

Originally Posted by AndyG

Giant City has great places to hang, as well as Fern Clyffe for State parks with long trails and car camping. Garden of the Gods, Lusk Creek, Bell Smith Springs and Max Creek are all good. I've heard about Camp Cadiz and been meaning to check that one out.

Thanks AndyG!

**Lawrence_1md** · 04-03-2016, 21:23

Lots of places to go in S.I. how far are you wanting to hike?

**AndyG** · 04-03-2016, 21:33

Originally Posted by Lawrence_1md

Lots of places to go in S.I. how far are you wanting to hike?

I'd like to plan a 25 to 30 mile point to point or loop. Having already done the river to river already I'm still kind of at a loss for a good 2 day hike in So Il that doesn't involve roads at some point.