First off I need to warn you, this trail is not for the faint of heart. It’s an excruciating vertical hike. However, if you make it all the way to the top, it is quite a rewarding jot. To reach Millstone Bluffs in Southern Illinois take IL-145 to IL-147. In 1.4 miles look for the signage on the right for Millstone Bluffs. Continue for 0.3 miles to the parking lot and enjoy this rare glimpse into Native American History.
The area is known as Millstone Bluff, and the trail offers a unique peak into a prehistoric Native American community offers more variety than any other archaeological dig in Southern Illinois.
This Mississippian dwelling area was inhabited between 1492, when Columbus “discovered” the New World, and 1540, the year Hernando De Soto began his trek through the Southeastern United States.
If a challenging hike isn’t what your looking for, you can still view the spectacular towering bluffs from the parking lot. This really is a sight to be seen as the bluffs stick out like a sore thumb from the surrounding flat terrain.
You can hike in at the trail-head and follow the ¾ mile path to the top of the bluffs. The incline is challenging and continues gradually until it reaches the top of the 320 foot bluff; benches are available for resting and soaking in the natural woodland splendor of the surrounding area.
Once you reach the top, you can follow the trail to see some of the Midwest’s most amazing petroglyphs etched into the rock by the Mississippians almost 500 years ago including bird and spider images or follow the circular trail to the left to see what remains of this ancient settlement.
Remember to stay on the trail, to preserve these amazing prehistoric artifacts, these are some of the most well preserved and offer unique insights into Native American history.
Several other attractions are in the area, including Garden of the Gods, Jackson Falls, and the famous Rim Rock Trail.
Need lodging? Willow-Brook Cabins is nearby and offer a nice cabin experience at an affordable rate!
