Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is known for its diverse landscape that includes sandstone cliffs, bluffs, waterfalls, and some of the most intriguing rock formations you will ever see. Within this forest lies a section that is known as Pounds Hollow Ecological Area. Here you can hike along a trail to find a cave and some incredibly unique rock formations.
Within the vast 289,000 acres of the Shawnee National Forest, you’ll find Pounds Hollow Recreation Area. A popular section of the forest to hike, visitors can take the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail for 2.3 miles past numerous fascinating natural features.
John Gray/AllTrails
This loop trail is rated moderate and has a 221-foot overall elevation gain. Along the way, the trail leads through the forest, past extraordinary geological wonders, and eventually to Pounds Hollow Lake.
Isaac Orr/AllTrails
On this trail, you’ll walk along the edge of a bluff and have spectacular views of the forest and the canyon below.
Brenda Corey/AllTrails
At one point, you’ll descend a staircase through a narrow set of sandstone blocks. It’s quite an adventure!
Tina Farley/AllTrails
There’s nothing quite the experience you’ll have walking through these rock formations.
Stephanie Rhoades/AllTrails
Perhaps the most fascinating feature along Rim Rock Trail is the Ox-Lot Cave. This cave is more like a rock overhang that provides a natural shelter.
Melanie Hunter/AllTrails
Ox-Lot Cave was first used by Native Americans and, eventually, European settlers. The settlers also kept their livestock in the area. You can learn more about the cave here.
Jen B/AllTrails
John Gray/AllTrails
Isaac Orr/AllTrails
Brenda Corey/AllTrails
Tina Farley/AllTrails
Stephanie Rhoades/AllTrails
Melanie Hunter/AllTrails
Jen B/AllTrails
Have you hiked along the Rim Rock National Recreation Trail before? If so, what did you think of the cave and rock formations? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! To learn more about the trail, head to AllTrails.
The Whiskey Cave Trail in the Garden of the Gods Wilderness is another trail that leads past fascinating rock formations. You can learn more in this post.
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