Hike the Stonefort Trail

The massive stone wall was at one time 285 feet long, six feet high, and nine feet thick. The appearance of a “stone fort” or stone wall here at Giant City is one of at least ten in

Southern Illinois. 

The trail begins at the parking lot and traverses a intermittent cascade waterfall that is amazing after snow melt or spring rains. It is steep and rugged, so be sure to wear quality shoes. Once atop the bluff the stone wall that gives the trail it's name begins to come into view. The wall is over 1,000 years old and is though to have been used as a neutral trading ground for various Woodland tribes in the area.

Today, the wall and barrens of the cliff top provided unique living areas for various wildflowers, plants, and rare animals. large shelters reside within the sandstone walls, and massive boulders provide climbing challenges for novice to experienced climbers. 

The path then moves along the top of the cliff, rappelling here is restricted so please look at the parks website for more information. The trail then loops back to where one started.