Jackson Falls Trail, Illinois, United States

5Taylor B 5:00 PM May 25, 2016

Another gem in the Shawnee National Forest
As a native Chicagoan, who is used to tall buildings and flat landscapes and lots of paved roads, I wasn't aware of all the wonders--or even the presence--of Shawnee National Forest until I was a college graduate. In the last 25 years, since I began to travel Illinois from Cairo to Galena, I have learned that Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois is a sanctuary for many natural wonders and home to many recreational areas and wildernesses and winding trails and lakes and rivers and wooded hills and wildlife areas that annually draw thousands of people for a variety of activities. Jackson Falls offers many opportunities for technical climbing and is a beautiful scenic area of the Shawnee National Forest. This non-developed area has a small trailhead that leads to the top of Jackson Falls. There are high, dangerous bluffs in the area and visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Camping is permitted at no cost. Jackson Falls offers a remote experience in nature even though it is easily accessible by vehicle. Visitors enjoy hiking, rock climbing, mushroom hunting, wildlife hunting, horseback riding and nature viewing. Waterfalls in this region are seasonal, meaning flow depends upon the amount of recent rainfall. To reach Jackson Falls, drive east from I-57 at the Carbondale/Marion exit to Harrisburg. Take Highway 145 south 11 miles to Burden Falls Road. Turn west onto Burden Falls Road, go 5 miles, then turn right at the "T" and continue 3.7 miles to Glen Street Falls Road. Turn left (south) onto Glen Street Falls Road, got 2 miles to the Jackson Falls Trailhead. Compared to some of the other more challenging trails in the region, Jackson Falls is a relaxing stroll in the park on a warm summer day.

4jmpncsu 5:00 PM Dec 7, 2020

Seasonal Waterfall
Jackson Falls is a seasonal waterfall in Shawnee National Forest. The steep ravine made by the falls is a popular area for rock climbing as well. As a seasonal waterfall, it can completely dry up, so plan your visit after heavy rain. A short trail from the parking area leads to the top of the waterfall. Because the canyon is so steep, it is difficult to get down to the base. Since the waterfall was dry when we visited, we didn't bother. It's a really pretty area and we took a short hike with our dog. Lots of wildflowers to see and scenic views from the rim of the gorge.