Hike Panther Den Loop Shawnee National Forest, IL

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Oct 27, 2016 — Panther Den is a delightful little feature within Shawnee National Forest. I did the full Panther Den Wilderness Loop since it wasn't much of an undertaking, but I was a little annoyed to find that the loop actually was pretty flat and boring and at times a little overgrown. The actual Panther Den rock formations were only a short hike from the trailhead (see map). Nonethless, it was a nice hike through southern Illinois forest. The loop improved significantly along its western side, where the trail paralleled a creek and some nice sandstone cliffs. The trail also actually doesn't seem to officially lead to the Panther Den rock formations, but they become obvious when you hike near them. A side trail continues toward the actual rocks, which were really interesting. Fun crevasses lead through the most enjoyable sections.

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Along the Panther Den Wilderness Loop, starting on the east side of the loop first.

The Panther Den Wilderness Loop curves back south, where the trail parallels a creek with nice sandstone bluffs.

The loop continues south, completely missing the pretty section of the Panther Den rock formations. I backtracked to see them.

Panther Den.

Blocky Panther Den rock formations.

Leaving Panther Den on the way back to the trailhead.

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Hire/refer me as a web developer or send me a few bucks if you find my site useful. I’m not sponsored, so all fees are out-of-pocket and my time preparing trip reports is unpaid. I really appreciate it!