Discover the Majestic Garden of the Gods
Explore the breathtaking rock formations and stunning vistas of the Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest, a premier hiking destination in Illinois.
Nestled in the breathtaking Shawnee National Forest, the Garden of the Gods is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its stunning rock formations, panoramic views, and diverse hiking trails, this enchanting location offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to Garden of the Gods
- Herod, Illinois, 62947, US
- +1618-658-2111
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities in the area.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views and unique rock formations.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the region.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Chicago, take I-55 S to I-57 S. Continue on I-57 S and then take I-64 E. Once you reach Harrisburg, exit onto IL-34 S, following signs for Shawnee National Forest. Continue on IL-34 S until you reach IL-146 E. Follow IL-146 E to US-45 S. Turn left onto US-45 S and follow it until you reach Garden of the Gods, located at Herod, IL 62947. The total drive is approximately 5 hours. Note that parking is available, but be sure to check for any parking fees.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, take a train from Chicago Union Station to Carbondale, IL. Once you arrive in Carbondale, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Garden of the Gods in Herod, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Be sure to check the train schedule and book your tickets in advance. The train fare can vary, but expect to pay around $50 to $75 one way. Additionally, taxis or rideshare services may cost around $50 to $100 depending on the time of day and demand.
Discover more about Garden of the Gods
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Garden of the Gods Outpost
3.1 km
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Martha Furnace (National Historic Site)
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Southeastern Illinois College
17.0 km
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Corn Crib on Potts Inn Historic Site
17.4 km
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Carrier Mills Archaeological District
22.3 km
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John Marshall House Museum
24.0 km
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Historical Marker
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Shawneetown Bank State Historic Site
24.2 km
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Miller Grove Town National Historic Site
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Berry's Ferry John Berry Homesite on Trail of Tears
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William Rondeau Hermitage Historic Site
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Four Points, River to River Trail
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Golconda Historic District
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John Dupont House Historic Site
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Shady Rest Historic Site
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Unmissable attractions to see
Camel Rock
0.2 km
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Indian Point Trailhead
0.6 km
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Shawnee Bigfoot Statue
3.1 km
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High Knob Lookout
5.0 km
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Herod Cave Historic Site
5.6 km
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Rim Rock National Recreation Trail
9.4 km
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Illinois Iron Furnace (National Historic Site)
12.7 km
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Lusk Creek Canyon Nature Preserve
16.7 km
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Indian Kitchen Trailhead
19.0 km
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Saline County Area Museum (Saline Creek Pioneer Village and Museum)
19.5 km
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Bay Creek Wilderness
21.8 km
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Burden Falls Trailhead
23.2 km
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Cave-In-Rock State Park
25.2 km
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Sand Cave - Underground Railroad National Historic Site
25.6 km
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Redbud Campground
25.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Gap Bar
5.0 km
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Double M Campground
10.2 km
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Trails End Grill
10.3 km
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The Red Onion
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E'Town River Restaurant
19.1 km
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El Ranchito Restaurant
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Johnson Southern Style Bar-B-Q
20.0 km
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steam café
20.1 km
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Bar-B-Q Barn
20.7 km
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Shotgun Eddys
20.8 km
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Don Luna
20.9 km
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Lincoln Street Grille & Pub
21.2 km
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Gillio's Pizza
21.3 km
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Dad's BBQ, Inc
23.0 km
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Liz's Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rose Clare Craft & Antique
19.7 km
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The FACTORY
20.1 km
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Shawnee Hills Antique Mall
20.5 km
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R61 Resale Boutique
20.9 km
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Friendly Farms
22.3 km
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Country Cottage
22.4 km
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The Big Red Barn
27.1 km
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Shawnee National Forest
27.5 km
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Blue i Leather and Goods
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Chocolate Factory
35.2 km
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Magpie Market House
48.6 km
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Wit and Wisdom - Creative Customs
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Glacier’s End
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Whimsy, A Children's Clothing Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jacs Place
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Aces
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E'Town Tap
19.0 km
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JoJos Bar
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Town Square Pub
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Layton's Old Town Bar and Grill
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Lusk Creek Liquor and Gaming
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The Levee Lounge
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Sullys
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Triple E BBQ Lake of Egypt
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Sunbar
49.6 km
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Ned's Shed
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Southbound Bar & Liquor
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Pookie's Beer, Burgers & Bocce
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John Brown's On the Square
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