Winter Getaways and Adventures in Shawnee Forest Country
By NewsPress Now
(StatePoint) Winter is a great season to visit Shawnee Forest Country in Southernmost Illinois, as you can explore the trails in solitude. The weather is generally mild, but the cooler temperatures mean no bugs or snakes, and the bare trees mean that the bluffs—hidden behind foliage for much of the year—emerge dramatically into view.
This is the time of year to enjoy the peacefulness that only a winter hike can provide. Whether the waterfalls are flowing or frozen, they are a beautiful sight to behold. However, if you prefer exploring in a group, you can take a guided hike with Hiking with Shawn, or Bart Lane’s Shawnee Guided Hiking Tours.
Through the end of January, give your winter hike purpose and Roam for Gnomes along the seven trails of Giant City State Park (excluding the Red Cedar Backpacking Trail). Here’s how:
• Record all seven rosy-cheeked gnomes by taking a photograph of you and the gnome, or by making a list of the items they are holding. (Each gnome is holding a different item recommended for a winter hike.)
• Record the date you found your gnome and what trail you found it on, as locations will be changing throughout the winter.
• Bring your proof to the Giant City Visitors Center for your super cool and free Giant City Gnome Roam patch!
Pair your Roam for Gnomes with a whimsical hobbit-style stay at unique, hidden-away Rocky Comfort Cabins. A one-of-a-kind place to relax in front of a fire, or roast hot dogs and marshmallows after a day of hiking, bicycling, horseback riding or zip-lining, some cabins and cottages even offer hot tubs, as well as booking incentives.
During January and February, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail provides great incentives to visit with its passport program. With your purchase of a $20.00 winery passport, you’ll receive discounts at each member winery on merchandise, food and of course, wine, as well as have a chance to win wonderful prizes along the trail. To purchase a passport, visit www.shawneewinetrail.com.
For a romantic getaway, consider booking a Valentine’s Day stay at a Shawnee Hills Wine Trail winery, where on-site lodging is available. For a couples’ trip or girlfriend getaway, wait until the first weekend in March, which is when the next Wine & Food Pairing Weekend takes place. This event happens only three times a year and is a great opportunity to sample wines from all Shawnee Hills Wine Trail wineries, along with many delicious and comforting dishes.
There are 12 wineries on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail and they are all open year-round. Fewer people means a casual pace and a more intimate tasting experience. For more information, call 1-618-833-9928 or visit southernmostillinois.com.
Photo 3 Credit: Rocky Comfort Cabins
