Shawnee Group of the Sierra Club

                                 Outings    Newsletter    Local Action    Resources     Membership

National
Sierra Club Campaigns

 Sierra Club Chronicles TV

Sierra Club Radio

   Event Flyers

Adventures with Uncle Bob

Happy Hollow Trailhead.

Directions: There are two ways to approach your destination: Take I-57 to the Goreville exit. Go east to Sullivan Road. Turn right and take this road to Happy Hollow Road. Turn right and travel approximately four miles and watch for an excellent parking lot, just before a sharp curve. For hikers coming from the south, get off I-57 at the Lick Creek exit. Go east on Buncombe Road and follow a sign to Cedar Grove Church. Turn right onto Happy Hollow Road and follow it to the parking lot. This trailhead is part of the River to River Trail and is blazed, accordingly. Note the sign which says" no horses between Nov 1 to April 30". We will be traversing Illinois Department of Conservation land. In order to really appreciate its beauty, I would advise doing this hike after leaf-off, such as in December when I have a planned Shawnee Group outing planned for this trail.

During the first half hour of your hike the wide, gravel trail undulates up and down somewhat steeply but finally becomes level. Prominent features along the way include looking up at steep ravines on both sides, as well as, some scenic cliff walls and rock formations. There appear to be small caves in the cliff lines, but I'll leave that up to those who think the climb is worthwhile. Along the way, you can expect to encounter a few small creek crossings.  After an hour of hiking along the trail, you will arrive at a creek that is about 20 feet wide, and depending upon recent rainfall about a foot deep.  If you know how to safely cross swift water, proceed on ahead. Otherwise turn around as I did and backtrack to parking lot. The trail map which you can find on the back of most Ferne Clyffe State Park maps shows that this trail should eventually lead you to Goreville Falls.

During my retreat, I noted an unmarked trail leading east and found myself walking along a canyon rim, looking at a cascading stream flowing between gigantic boulders and rock formations. After finding an easy way to the bottom, I followed upstream for closer views. The canyon ends in a cul-de-sac with a 15 foot waterfall over a shelter bluff.

When you do return to parking lot, I encourage you to walk east along the road to the first opening in the woods. Walk in a short distance to a big smooth stone glade top. Note the small waterfalls over the ledges. This ridgeline is semi-circular. 

For additional information on these or other outing locations, call Bob Tyson at 684-5643, or, mailto:robkay43@webtv.net ■