🥾 ActiveWeekend · from St. Louis, MO

Crimson Rocks & Ancient Forest Trails

Explore towering crimson sandstone cliffs and misty ancient forest trails in a breathtaking landscape just hours from home.

Day 1 — Garden of the Gods Recreation AreaDay 2 — Shawnee National Forest

Day 1 — Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

🚗 2 hr 57 min driving📍 5 stops

🌅

Morning

🚗

Drive

St. Louis, MO → Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

2 hr 37 min

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

★ Reviews →

Scenic hiking, camping & picnic area featuring sandstone rock formations & a trail with benches.

~2.5 hrs📍 See location

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Lunch

🍽️ Lunch~1 hr

The Fish Dock River Restaurant

Savor fresh, expertly-prepared seafood and river views that complement your weekend of exploring Southern Illinois' natural wonders.

★ Reviews →Restaurant📍 Maps →

3 options · tap to switch

☀️

Afternoon

🚗

Drive

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area → Rim Rock National Recreation Trail

12 min

Rim Rock National Recreation Trail

★ Reviews →

Hike scenic bluffs overlooking the Meramec River valley while traversing rocky outcrops and forest canopy. Stop at dramatic overlooks for sweeping views of the surrounding Ozark landscape.

~1.5 hrs📍 See location

🌙

Evening

🚗

Drive

Rim Rock National Recreation Trail → Trails End Grill

8 min

🍽️ Dinner~1 hr

Trails End Grill

Refuel with hearty, satisfying cuisine after a day of outdoor adventures in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.

★ Reviews →Restaurant📍 Maps →

4 options · tap to switch

🛏️

Shawnee Forest Cabins

Wooded cabin rentals at the edge of the Shawnee National Forest, minutes from the Garden of the Gods overlooks and the hidden sandstone canyons of southern Illinois — a 4.9-rated retreat that earns it. One of the most underrated overnight destinations in the Midwest.

Day 2 — Shawnee National Forest

🚗 3 hr 59 min driving📍 4 stops

🌅

Morning

🚗

Drive

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area → Shawnee National Forest

1 hr 28 min

Shawnee National Forest

★ Reviews →

Immerse yourself in 289,000 acres of pristine wilderness featuring waterfalls, canyons, and diverse hiking trails perfect for every skill level.

~2.5 hrs📍 See location

🍽️

Lunch

🍽️ Lunch~1 hr

The Iron Whisk Bistro & Bar

Indulge in upscale, locally-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails that provide the perfect evening complement to your weekend of outdoor exploration.

★ Reviews →Brunch Restaurant📍 Maps →

2 options · tap to switch

☀️

Afternoon

🚗

Drive

Shawnee National Forest → Giant City State Park

19 min

Giant City State Park

★ Reviews →

Explore towering sandstone cliffs and squeeze through narrow canyons on the Giant City Trail, then scramble across massive boulder fields and experience the cool shelter of the shade-filled gorge.

~2 hrs📍 See location

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Evening

🚗

Drive

Giant City State Park → Giant City State Park Lodge & Restaurant

3 min

🍽️ Dinner~1 hr