Trip report
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.