Danny's Missouri Backpacking & Hiking Trails Reviews

Updated 10 February 2005

River to River Trail - Shawnee National Forest - Illinois

Checkout these links for current information needs: River to River Trail River to River Trail Website

Note: Information on this trail has been added since I have had so many inquiries about trails to do a 50+ miler on and this is a good one. Even though it just borders Missouri it is not that far away. I have only been on a portion of this trail where it goes through the Garden of the Gods.

Location: Southern Illinois - Battery Rock on the Ohio River to Grand Tower on the Mississippi River.

Distance: 148 Miles Oneway with 18 Trailheads with distances of 5 to 13 miles between trailheads.

Water: The River to River Trail Guide needs to be consulted for availability of water.

Parking: Overnight parking is available at the various trailheads.

Comments: This is one of the most scenic trails in the state of Illinois and the longest. The American Discovery Trail also uses this trail as it goes through Illinois.

Maps: The best map available is the 'River to River Trail Guide' published by the River to River Trail Society. It can be obtained by calling 618-252-6789 or 618-658-8409. The guide contains topo maps and detailed information on each section of the trail between the trailheads. It is a must buy if you are trying to plan out a long trip on this trail but there are some good sections for weekend treks as well such as the premiere 18 miles stretch from Garden of the Gods Wilderness southwest to the Lust Creek Wilderness.

Cautions/Info: Mountain bikers are allowed on many sections of the trail (though not in the wilderness areas). The weather in southern Illinois is ususally mild in the winter so it makes a good place to plan that mid-winter backpack trip.

Back

Return to Top of Page