Stonefort Nature Trail, Shawnee Hills Travel Guide

4.6 (125)

Explore a reconstructed Native American stone fort and scenic bluffs on this short, moderately challenging trail in Giant City State Park.

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Stonefort Nature Trail

Hike a 1/3-mile trail to a reconstructed Native American stone wall in Giant City State Park, Makanda, Illinois. Experience natural beauty and a glimpse into the past with moderate terrain and scenic overlooks.

A brief summary to Stonefort Nature Trail

2368-2380 Stonefort Rd, Makanda, Illinois, 62958, US

Monday 7 am-10 pm
Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
Thursday 7 am-10 pm
Friday 7 am-10 pm
Saturday 7 am-10 pm
Sunday 7 am-10 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Stonefort Nature Trail.

Visit after a rain for the best views of the Stonefort Cascades waterfall along the trail.
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail is steep and rocky in places.
Be aware of potential hazards such as poison ivy and snakes.

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Explore Stonefort Nature Trail on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Stonefort Nature Trail, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Giant City Lodge, head east on Giant City Road, then turn right onto Route 51 South. After approximately 2 miles, turn right onto Stonefort Road. Follow Stonefort Road for about 1 mile; the Stonefort Nature Trail parking lot will be on your left. Parking is free.
Walking

From the Giant City State Park Visitor Center, follow the park road towards the south, then turn left between the dumpsters and the building to go down the hill. Take the right turn and drive a couple of miles. The Giant City Stonefort Trail will be on your right. There is adequate parking across from the trail. A restroom, picnic area, and trail information are located at the trailhead.

Discover more about Stonefort Nature Trail

The Stonefort Nature Trail in Giant City State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. This 1/3-mile loop trail leads to a reconstructed stone wall, believed to have been built by prehistoric Native Americans during the Late Woodland Period, between A.D. 600 and 800.The trail itself is considered moderately challenging, with a short but steep climb featuring large sandstone boulders. This climb leads to the stone wall, which was once 285 feet long, six feet high, and nine feet thick. The wall you see today is a reconstruction from the 1930s, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) using original materials. Early settlers had dismantled the original wall for building purposes.Along the trail, keep an eye out for a seasonal waterfall cascading down the bluffs to your left, especially stunning after heavy rainfall or when frozen in winter. The trail also offers scenic overlooks and interesting bluff formations.Archaeological digs have revealed that the site was likely a meeting place for different groups to socialize and trade on neutral ground. Artifacts discovered include pottery and stone tools, suggesting sporadic use of the area for short periods.