High Knob Lookout: Shawnee National Forest Vista

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Discover panoramic views and hiking trails at High Knob Lookout in Shawnee National Forest, a historic fire tower site with natural beauty.

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High Knob Lookout

High Knob Lookout, located in the Shawnee National Forest near Junction, Illinois, offers stunning panoramic views from the site of a former fire lookout tower. With interconnecting trails, picnic areas, and forty-foot cliffs, it's a prime spot for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to High Knob Lookout

Junction, Illinois, 62954, US
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Monday 6 am-10 pm
Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
Thursday 6 am-10 pm
Friday 6 am-10 pm
Saturday 6 am-10 pm
Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

Wear appropriate footwear for hiking the trails, as some paths can be rocky or uneven.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike, as there are no concessions on site.
Visit during the fall for stunning views of the autumn foliage.

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Getting There

Driving

From Harrisburg, Illinois, take Highway 145 south for 5 miles, then turn south onto Highway 34 and continue for 10 miles. Turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road for 4 miles, then turn left onto High Knob Road and drive for 2 miles. Finally, turn right onto Knob Hill Lane and continue for half a mile to reach High Knob Lookout. There is no fee to park, and parking is available from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Discover more about High Knob Lookout

High Knob Lookout is a scenic destination within the Shawnee National Forest, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of Southern Illinois. Once the site of a fire lookout tower staffed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the early days of the Shawnee National Forest, the area still retains concrete footings from the original tower.The lookout provides a trailhead for five miles of interconnecting trails that wind through the surrounding landscape. Hikers can explore forty-foot cliffs, clear creeks, and a vibrant deciduous forest. The area is open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., providing ample opportunity for daytime exploration.To reach High Knob Lookout, take Highway 145 south from Harrisburg for five miles, then Highway 34 south for ten miles. Turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road for four miles, then north onto High Knob Road for two miles, and finally east onto Knob Hill Lane for half a mile to the lookout.