Garden Of the Gods via River to River Trail

Starting your adventure near Pope County, Illinois, the Garden of the Gods via River to River Trail is a captivating loop trail that spans approximately 19 kilometers (around 12 miles) with an elevation gain of about 500 meters (1,640 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If you're driving, the nearest significant landmark is the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, accessible via Garden of the Gods Road. For those relying on public transport, the closest major city is Harrisburg, Illinois. From Harrisburg, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the trailhead, which is about a 30-minute drive.

Trail Highlights The trail begins at the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, renowned for its stunning rock formations and panoramic views. As you embark on the loop, you'll encounter the iconic Camel Rock, a must-see landmark that offers excellent photo opportunities. The trail meanders through dense forests, open meadows, and along the banks of the Saline River, providing a diverse range of scenery.

Flora and Fauna The area is rich in biodiversity. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species. The forested sections are home to oak, hickory, and maple trees, which offer vibrant foliage in the fall. In spring and summer, the meadows burst into color with wildflowers like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans.

Historical Significance The Garden of the Gods area holds significant historical value. The rock formations are estimated to be over 320 million years old, formed during the Carboniferous period. Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, once inhabited this region, and you may come across ancient petroglyphs and artifacts along the trail.

Navigation and Safety Given the trail's moderate difficulty, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on course. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable, especially in the more remote sections. Always carry enough water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. The elevation gain is gradual but can be challenging in certain parts, so take breaks as needed.

Points of Interest - **Observation Trail**: About 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) into the hike, you'll find a short detour leading to the Observation Trail. This section offers some of the best views of the rock formations and is well worth the extra effort. - **Buzzard Point**: Approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) in, you'll reach Buzzard Point, a high vantage spot offering sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness. - **Saline River**: Around the halfway mark, the trail runs parallel to the Saline River for a stretch. This is a great spot to rest and enjoy the serene river views.

Final Stretch As you loop back towards the trailhead, the path becomes less strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the final kilometers at a leisurely pace. The last section takes you through more forested areas, eventually leading you back to the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.