Winter getaways and adventures in Shawnee Forest Country

Discover the scenic Shawnee National Forest by getting outside and reconnecting with nature.

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Winter is a great time to enjoy the slower, quieter side of Shawnee Forest Country in Southernmost Illinois. The cooler temperatures mean no bugs or snakes, and the trees are bare, allowing you to see much farther into the forest. Bluffs hidden behind the summer foliage emerge into sight. Shawnee National Forest can be magical any time of year, but the transition to winter can be especially dramatic.

Hiking is available year-round, and winter offers a different experience than the rest of the year. The weather is generally mild, and you can pretty much have the trails all to yourself. Enjoy a peacefulness that only winter can provide. If you're really lucky, the waterfalls will be flowing or frozen—either sight is beautiful! There are also options for guided hikes with Hiking with Shawn, Bart Lane’s guided hikes, a packaged stay with Steve of Rim Rock’s Dogwood Cabins, or a photography adventure.

After a day of hiking, biking, horseback riding, or zip-lining, relax in front of a fire or roast hot dogs and marshmallows. Some cabins and cottages also offer hot tubs, as well as booking incentives for December through February. You will also find more last-minute availability during this time of year.

January and February are also a great time to visit Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, which spans 11 wineries that are open year-round. During this time, fewer people often means a more casual pace and intimate tasting experience than the rest of the year. 

The wine trail's passport program also provides great discounts on wine, merchandise, food, and more. With your purchase of a $20 winery passport, you can receive discounts at each of the member wineries and a chance to win prizes. Passports are available at shawneewinetrail.com.

If you wish to spend Valentine's Day at a Shawnee Hills Wine Trail winery, on-site lodging is available at several of the wineries.

The first weekend in March, August, and November are also Wine & Food Pairing Weekends. Enjoy a progressive tasting along the trail, and enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of the wines when paired with delicious samples. It's a great time to explore different styles of Illinois wine with delicious, comforting dishes. Make it a romantic weekend or a girlfriend getaway!

For more information, call 1-800-C-IT-HERE (1-800-248-4373), or visit southernmostillinois.com

This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau. To learn more, visit southernmostillinois.com

Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau

P.O. Box 378, Anna, Illinois 62906