Southern Illinois offers many places to catch scenic vistas. One of my favorites is from Bald Knob, where you can find the Bald Knob Cross (www.baldknobcross.com). The now restored cross stands on one of the prominent hilltops in Southern Illinois. From the base of the cross, you have an outstanding view to the east, south and west! At 1030 ft above sea level, Bald Knob is the 11th higher point in Illinois.
Awesome view of Southern Illinois from water tower at Giant City Park
Another great view can be had from within Giant City Park from the water tower! Before or after you walk the parks impressive rock formations, also know as the “City Streets”, climb the narrow staircase of the water tower for a great view!
These are but a few of the places to check out great vistas in the Southern Illinois region. Drop a note via email if you have one you would like to share. Chances are it will get posted and not only will I, but all those who enjoy it, will be grateful!
A Few Views of Southern Illinois
THE GIANT CITY STATE PARK WATER TOWER
Giant City State Park
235 Giant City Rd,
Makanda, IL
618-457-4836
Giant City Water Tower offers a spectacular view of Southern Illinois. Located in the Giant City State Park, the water tower is an easy drive south from Carbondale, this tower gives you a commanding view of the region. You can see Bald Knob Cross from here! Once down, stop in at the lodge for some famous fried chicken!
Little Grand Canyon Trail
Hickory Ridge Road
8 miles S. of Murphysboro, IL
Moderate to hard trail. Great view of sandstone cliffs that create a deep canyon. Use caution if loop and descend into valley. In the fall, the “green wall” goes colorful, then sheds altogether, offering a spectacular view of a canyon. Trial descends at up to 80% about halfway through. For a short, easy to moderate hike, proceed to the left, then turn around and return at point where trail takes steep descent. Half trail hike is about 1.5 miles. Take water, leave no trash!
Trigg Tower
Rt. 147
1.9 miles N of Simpson, IL
Get the view of the forest that the old time fire rangers had from one of the remaining fire watch towers in Southern Illinois. Picnic sites available along with trails for horse and foot!
Inspiration Point
Northern Union County
LaRue-Pine Hills Ecological Area
618-687-1731
A half-mile trail offering spectacular scenic views of LaRue Swamp, the Mississippi River Valley and neighboring Missouri from atop 300-foot high limestone cliffs.
Garden of the Gods
Karbers Ridge Road
618-287-2201
Excellent vista views of the Shawnee National Forest for climbers and hikers. There is also an improved trail with access for the handicapped!
Quickie Scenic View
Exit 40 off of Interstate 57
This one is easy, just get off the freeway and take a break and take in a view! Best of all it is free!
Bell Smith Springs
Hidden Springs Ranger District – Shawnee National Forest
602 N. First Street – Route 45 North – Vienna, IL 62995
618-658-2111
Bell Smith Springs is home to a rare phenomenon of interconnected, complete, functioning ecosystems. There are four creeks which come together in the canyon at Bell Smith Springs; and even when the creeks are parched there are a dozen ice-cold spring pools which never go dry. The unique hydrology of the canyon contributes to its vegetative diversity. There are over 700 species of plants which grow at Bell Smith Springs. Bell Smith Springs is a an essential destination for anyone interested in native ecology and local history. It is designated a National Natural Landmark by the U.S. Park Service, a Natural Area by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission, and a recreation area by the U. S. Forest Service.