Panther Den Wilderness Area
At just over 900 acres, the smallest Wilderness in Illinois, Panther Den shares its northern boundary with Crab Orchard Wilderness (part of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). Together they form over 5000 acres of protected wilderness. Three fingers of Devil's Kitchen Lake extend into the northern section of this area, offering opportunities for viewing wildlife, canoeing, photography and fishing. Sandstone bluffs and multilayered rock formations are found throughout Panther Den. Sheltered overhangs beneath the bluffs provide habitat for the endangered French's shooting star. Muskrats, deer, and beavers are common sights. Mink and bobcats (endangered in Illinois) have been seen here, too.
Getting There
Take Exit 40 on I-57 (same exit for Ferne Clyffe State Park). Using the Lick Creek topographic quad map follow County Road 23/61 west to County Road 276, turn north (right). The road makes a 90-degree turn to the west (left) and becomes County Road 45. After about 2.5 miles you will come to a T-intersection; turn north (right); after another mile the road makes a 90 degree bend to the west (left); at this point a gravel road, Forest Road 725, takes off to the north (right); a small parking area is on the right; park here and walk the road to the Wilderness; about 0.25 miles up the road you will encounter a gate which may or may not be closed; walk around it and proceed towards the Wilderness; (if you find the gate open you may be tempted to drive on down the road – this not advised because the gate belongs to a private individual who lives along the road and he could easily lock the gate with you inside).
Exploring
Panther Den Loop trail begins at the end of the road -- look for signs. The trail drops down, crosses creeks and winds its way through a maze of giant boulders, and offers views of the lake before ascending to the ridge top and beginning of the trail. The Loop trail intersects the River-to-River Trail at a couple points, so be careful not to get side-tracked. Use the Lick Creek topograhic quadrangle map for Panther Den Wilderness.
