The best walks and hikes in Massac County
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hikes
Hiking in Massac County, Illinois, offers diverse terrain, from the historic banks of the Ohio River to the unique geological formations of the Shawnee Hills. The landscape features bottomland forests, ancient cypress and tupelo swamps, and dramatic sandstone bluffs. Hikers can explore a network of trails through state parks and natural areas, encountering varied ecosystems and natural features.
Best hiking trails in Massac County
- The most popular hiking route is Clyde F. Boyles Greenway Trail, a 4.3 miles (6.9…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
1
hikers
6.85km
01:44
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10.6km
02:45
50m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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43.2km
11:04
170m
170m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
90.2km
22:58
270m
250m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.27km
01:50
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This campground is perfectly situated next to, some sites are almost on the trail, the Tunnel Hill trail. The campground is clean and well maintained and all sites have electric. handy for charging up all your electronics at the end of the day. Water is also available. bathrooms are pit style and one negative would be lack of a shower house. Great place to stay if you are riding the entire Tunnel Hill trail.
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The Cache Wetlands center is the couthern terminus for the tunnel Hill Trail. The Barkahausen Wetlands center is a world class research facility and educational facility.
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Karnak is not the end of trail but it is the last point on the trail to camp. The Main Brothers camp ground is pretty simple but it is the only campground at the south end of the trail. The campground is clean and in the main campground there are spots for tents.
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Belknap is another one of the towns that was made by the rail road and died by the rail road. If you need a saw, there is a custom saw builder.
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Vienna is the trail HQ as well as the adjacent city park and rail museum. There is water, flush toilets, 2 museums and a beautiful park all right there. There is a trail into downtown where there is a great little place to eat called Neds Shed. Camping is available just east of the trail at the Shawnee Forest Campground. There is a recently ( 2025 ) completed concrete bike path from the trail east to the fast food restaraunts and then onto the shawnee forest campground. lots of Fast food available, a local diner, and a mexican restaraunt along this eastern extension.
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This is the longest and highest trestle on the trail over 300 feet above the valley below.
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This is a must stop on the trail. This place has cold water, ice cream treats and a place to relax in the old general store & post office of sandburn IL. It runs on the honor system. Very cool place for pics!
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The highlight of the trail as well as the highest point on the trail is the tunnel at tunnel hill. The tunnel is 542 feet long, 300 feet shorter than originally built in the late 1800's due to a cave in. the tunnel is very neat and worth a trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Massac County?
Komoot features a selection of 4 hiking routes in Massac County, ranging from easy strolls to challenging long-distance trails. These routes cover diverse landscapes, from riverfront paths to unique geological formations.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Massac County?
Yes, Massac County offers several easy trails suitable for families. The Clyde F. Boyles Greenway Trail is an easy 6.8 km path, and the Bob Noble Park loop from Noble Park Swimming Pool is another accessible 7.2 km option. For a unique experience, the 1.5-mile Todd Fink-Heron Pond Trail in Cache River State Natural Area features a floating boardwalk through a cypress pond.
Where can I find trails with unique natural features or geological formations?
Dixon Springs State Park is renowned for its dramatic rocky scenery, including bold cliffs, crags, and large boulders. The Ghost Dance Canyon Trail there features a waterfall cascade and impressive rock formations. Cache River State Natural Area, partially in Massac County, offers trails through ancient bald cypress and tupelo swamps, such as the Heron Pond and Little Black Slough Loop.
Are there any challenging long-distance hikes in the area?
For those seeking a challenge, a segment of the Tunnel Hill State Trail offers a difficult 43.1 km hike, with an even longer 90.1 km segment also available. This trail provides extensive opportunities for hikers and cyclists through varied terrain.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on Massac County trails?
Massac County's trails generally feature relatively low elevation changes, with the region characterized by smaller hills rather than mountains. You'll find a mix of paved paths, grassy woodlands, and rugged, rocky terrain, especially in areas like Dixon Springs State Park. Trails often follow riverfronts or wind through bottomland forests and swamps.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Massac County?
Yes, Dixon Springs State Park is home to the Ghost Dance Canyon Trail, which features a unique waterfall cascade. This trail also showcases large bluffs and impressive rock formations, making it a scenic choice.
Can I hike with my dog on trails in Massac County?
While specific dog policies can vary by park, many state parks in Illinois, including Fort Massac State Park, generally allow leashed dogs on trails. It's always best to check the specific regulations for each park or natural area before heading out with your furry friend.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest to see while hiking?
Fort Massac State Park offers a blend of history and nature, with the replica Fort Massac and a historic cemetery along the Hickory Nut Ridge Trail. Dixon Springs State Park features unique geological formations with evocative names like Alligator Rock, Devil's Workshop, and Pluto's Cave. The Cache River State Natural Area is known for its ancient bald cypress and tupelo trees, particularly at Heron Pond.
Are there any circular routes available for hiking in Massac County?
Yes, the Heron Pond and Little Black Slough Loop is a moderate 10.6 km circular route that offers excellent views of cypress and tupelo gum trees and swamps. Additionally, the Bluff Trail in Dixon Springs State Park is a 1.5-mile lollipop loop.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Massac County?
Spring and fall are generally considered the best times for hiking in Massac County. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant, with blooming wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter offers a different, often quieter, experience, though some trails might be muddy or have limited access.
Are there any trails that offer scenic views of the Ohio River?
Absolutely. Fort Massac State Park, situated along the Ohio River, provides several trails with picturesque waterside scenery. The Hickory Nut Ridge Trail and the George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail both offer expansive views of the Ohio River as they wind through the park.
Most popular routes in Massac County
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