Southern Illinois felt like my last stop in the South with its rural character and green landscapes that even include some cypress swamps.
I visited cousin John and his wife Laurie at their home by Makanda, population 600 according to the roadside sign.
Downtown Makanda, the iconic water tower at the intersection of Makanda Rd and US 51, and souvenirs from my visit:
Hiking in Giant City State Park
A rocky stream bed next to the trail
In one spot names and dates are engraved in stone walls, some dating to the 19th century:
An afternoon canoe tour along the Cache River
Our guide Sam is studying to teach biology and told us a lot about local plants and animals.
State Champion Bald Cypress Tree said to be 1,000 years old
We saw several Pileated Woodpeckers including this one feeding its young in a cypress. On a large screen you may be able to pick out the baby birds poking their heads out of the tree trunk.
Hiking at Ferne Clyffe State Park
Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail
It was fun hiking and canoeing with you. Enjoy the rest of your trip.
ReplyDeleteThis part of your journey really had some interesting terrain and sites to see.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful!
ReplyDeleteThe stone wall was beyond fabulous!! Scary in a few spots! I really getting jealous of your trip!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful part of the country. Impressive rock features.
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