Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Trail of Tears State Forest, located in Union County, Illinois, encompasses over 5,000 acres and presents a rich mosaic of natural habitats. The forest is part of the larger Shawnee Hills section, exhibiting a varied topography characterized by steep hills, deep hollows, and a mixed hardwood forest. Established to protect the area's unique geological features and to promote sustainable forestry practices, this state forest also represents a piece of tragic history, associated with the forced relocation of Native American tribes during the early 19th century, known as the Trail of Tears. Visitors to the forest can engage in a plethora of outdoor activities, such as hiking along the various trails that wind through shaded valleys and up steep inclines, camping in one of the scenic areas, and observing the rich biodiversity that ranges from white-tailed deer to a multitude of bird species. The forest is also a haven for botanists and nature enthusiasts eager to explore an array of plant species native to the Shawnee region. Key attractions include the scenic views from the Limestone Bluffs and the tranquility of the interior woods, making it a favored retreat for those seeking solitude and nature immersion.
