Hike Rocky Bluff Trail

Makanda, Illinois

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Details

Distance

1.7 miles

Elevation Gain

157 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Lucas Bremer

Waterfalls and wildflowers enjoy sanctuary in this section of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.

Rocky Bluff Trail in Southern Illinois is part of the Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge near Carbondale. It's a relatively easy loop hike at 1.7 miles. This trail is not stroller or disability friendly. The parking lot is small and requires a $2.00 daily use tag you can obtain at the Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge Headquarters at 8588 Rt. 148, Marion, Illinois. Dogs can also enjoy this trail, but on a leash.

In the first half mile you will come to Rocky Bluff Falls. at 40 feet tall, it is best to visit this waterfall soon after it rains to see it in full force. Seeing this bluff line with the falls is a breathtaking sight and the most spectacular scenery on the refuge.

Along with this waterfall, sandstone cliffs, and plentiful wildlife make up the remainder of this trail.

Over 60 varieties of wildflowers call this section of forest home.

If fishing or hunting are on your itinerary, public access for hunting and Devil's Kitchen Lake are nearby.

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Features

Photography

Hiking

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Food Nearby

Forest

Scenic

Waterfall

Wildflowers

Wildlife

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