Hiking is always a great way to get some exercise, connect with nature, and explore the great outdoors. With so many trails across the state to choose from, we’re often drawn to the most scenic. Southern Illinois has its fair share of diverse natural beauty, including the Shawnee National Forest. Encompassing over 260,000 acres and hundreds of miles of pathways, it might be difficult to decide which trail (or trails) to hike here. Let’s have a look at one gorgeous option.

Located near Ozark and within the Shawnee National Forest is the Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge Trail. This gorgeous 1.4-mile trail will take you past a river, huge boulders, bluffs, and, best of all, a natural bridge.
Margaret Parks/AllTrails
This loop trail, which is best used from April through October, has a moderate amount of traffic and is appropriate for all hiking levels. With only a 164-foot elevation gain, you can bring the whole family and even your dog - just make sure your pup is kept on a leash.
kevin joest/AllTrails
This is a great trail for hiking, walking, wildlife-spotting, and birdwatching. Along the creek, you'll notice interesting rock formations.
Nicola Patterson/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
Leading up to the top of the bluffs is a set of stairs as an option to climb.
Margaret Parks/AllTrails

Related Stories

1

Explore 18,094 Acres Of Unparalleled Views Of Grassland On The Scenic Buffalo Viewing Trail In Illinois

 You Will See The Most Interesting Rock Formations Along The Whiskey Cave Trail In Illinois

You Will See The Most Interesting Rock Formations Along The Whiskey Cave Trail In Illinois

 night time on Godwin Trail in Illinois

The Godwin Trail Is The Single Most Dangerous Hike In All Of Illinois
But perhaps the most exciting and scenic part of this trail is its natural bridge. At 150 feet long, 30 feet wide, and 60 feet high, it's the largest of its kind in the state.
Nicola Patterson/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
The natural bridge is so large that it's hard to photograph in its entirety. If you are a photographer, you might want to bring along an ultra-wide lens.
Curtis Abert/Flickr
More daring and adventurous hikers can use these metal bars to climb atop the bridge for a different view. Of course, be sure to use caution if you decide to climb.
Nicola Patterson/ iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
If you don't want to trek to the top, you can always explore the underside of the bridge's arch. Talk about a gorgeous sight.
kevin joest/AllTrails

 

For more information on the Bell Smith Springs Natural Bridge Trail, visit the webpage on AllTrails here. Have you hiked this trail? What are some of the most scenic trails you have hiked in the Prairie State? Let us know in the comments below! Or, if you’d like to make an official recommendation for an upcoming Illinois-focused piece, click here to fill out our nomination form.

Can’t get enough natural beauty? Be sure to check out these breathtaking outdoor attractions in Illinois.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Illinois

Featured Addresses
Bell Smith Springs Road, Bell Smith Springs Rd, Ozark, IL 62972, USA