Posted in Illinois Hiking, Nature April 02, 2021 by

The Godwin Trail Is The Single Most Dangerous Hike In All Of Illinois

Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking for your next challenge? Well, then you’ve come to the right place. The Godwin Trail in Illinois is one of the most challenging hikes of all. Why? Because not only is it a lengthy hiking trail at over 10 miles, but it’s also a mix of terrain including water, sand, and forest that will have your glutes working overtime. Locals and visitors agree that this trail is well worth the effort because of its forest and river views. So what are you waiting for? Here are some more reasons you’ll love Godwin Trail.

The Godwin Trail is a 12.4-mile loop trail that is located near Alto Pass, a village in Union County, Illinois.
part of the Godwin Trail in Illinois
Chris Rockwood/AllTrails
A lot of the pathways along the Godwin Trail are actually on old roadbeds, as there used to be houses and homesteads in this area.
an overgrown trail on Godwin Trail in Illinois
Ken Gotsch/AllTrails
The Godwin Trail is in Shawnee National Forest, which sits between the Ohio River and the Mississippi River.
sign for Shawnee National Forest on Godwin Trail in Illinois
Rachel SchwartzkopfAllTrails
The forest features scenic waterfalls, sand formations, and several cliffs. So there is a lot of beauty to take in along the trail!
There is also a great deal of vegetation to observe along the trail, such as mushrooms, white oak trees, sugar maple trees, and pecan trees.
a mushroom on Godwin Trail in Illinois
Kitty Gray/AllTrails
You will also notice a variety of wildlife as you hike the trail, both day and night. Turkey vultures, foxes, rabbits, bobcats, and muskrats are all common sightings along the trail.
night time on Godwin Trail in Illinois
Chris RockwoodAllTrails
Although the trail is oftentimes hard to navigate because of fallen timber and worn markings, horseback riding is still an option on the Godwin Trail.
people on horseback on Godwin Trail in Illinois
AllTrails User/AllTrails
The Godwin Trail is lightly trafficked and a secret to many, but those who do know it, love the challenge it offers.
sloping woods on Godwin Trail in Illinois
Ken Gotsch/AllTrails

Have you taken a hike on the Godwin Trail in Illinois? Did you find it difficult? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!

And for more epic hikes in Illinois, be sure to check out these waterfall trails, all of which lead to stunning natural wonders.

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