Explore the Majestic Garden of the Gods
Discover the stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations of Garden of the Gods in Southern Illinois, a hiker's paradise and a photographer's dream.
The Garden of the Gods offers breathtaking vistas and rugged rock formations, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As a must-visit tourist attraction, it showcases the beauty of Southern Illinois with its towering sandstone cliffs, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Whether you're here for a leisurely hike, photography, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this stunning location is sure to impress.
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 during sunrise or sunset for the most spectacular views and lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the park.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure safe hiking conditions.
- Consider exploring the nearby Shawnee National Forest for additional hiking opportunities.
Getting There
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Car
From Rock River Valley, head south on IL-2 S. Merge onto I-74 E and continue for about 10 miles. Then take the exit onto I-57 S toward Memphis. After about 50 miles, take exit 40B to merge onto US-45 S toward Harrisburg. Continue on US-45 S for approximately 30 miles. Take the exit onto IL-34 S toward Herod. After 5 miles, follow the signs to Garden of the Gods, located at 37.6046° N, 88.3844° W.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Rock River Valley to Harrisburg, IL. Once you arrive in Harrisburg, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach Garden of the Gods, which is about 20 miles away. Be sure to check local bus schedules, as they may vary. Costs for the bus will depend on the service you use, and taxi fares can range from $30 to $50.
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Biking
For adventurous travelers, biking to Garden of the Gods is possible. Start from Rock River Valley and take IL-2 S, then follow the same route as cars. It is approximately a 70-mile ride, so ensure you are well-prepared with water, snacks, and a good map. This option might take several hours, depending on your cycling speed.
Discover more about Garden of the Gods
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Garden of the Gods Outpost
3.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and delicious fast food at the Garden of the Gods Outpost, your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes of southern Illinois.
Martha Furnace (National Historic Site)
13.4 km
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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
24.2 km
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Shawneetown Bank State Historic Site
24.2 km
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Miller Grove Town National Historic Site
25.4 km
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Berry's Ferry John Berry Homesite on Trail of Tears
26.7 km
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William Rondeau Hermitage Historic Site
26.9 km
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Four Points, River to River Trail
26.9 km
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Golconda Historic District
27.8 km
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John Dupont House Historic Site
34.2 km
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Shady Rest Historic Site
35.3 km
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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
14.8 km
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E'Town River Restaurant
19.1 km
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El Ranchito Restaurant
19.6 km
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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
23.1 km
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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
35.0 km
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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
49.8 km
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Glacier’s End
49.9 km
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Perfectly Posh Boutique
50.0 km
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Whimsy, A Children's Clothing Store
50.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Jacs Place
12.0 km
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Aces
18.9 km
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E'Town Tap
19.0 km
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JoJos Bar
19.5 km
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Town Square Pub
20.2 km
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Layton's Old Town Bar and Grill
24.3 km
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Lusk Creek Liquor and Gaming
27.9 km
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The Levee Lounge
28.0 km
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Sullys
40.0 km
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Triple E BBQ Lake of Egypt
48.1 km
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Sunbar
49.6 km
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Ned's Shed
49.6 km
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Southbound Bar & Liquor
49.7 km
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Pookie's Beer, Burgers & Bocce
49.7 km
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John Brown's On the Square
49.7 km
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