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Smuggler's Cave Trail

Shawnee National Forest, Illinois · 3 min read

Distance
3 mi
Elevation Gain
300 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
April through November
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
3 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Large river cave with documented use by river pirates in the early 1800s
  • Limestone bluffs above the Ohio River with long-distance views
  • The Ohio River visible from the bluff overlooks
  • Rich local history connecting to the Old Northwest Territory era

Overview

The Smuggler's Cave Trail connects Cave-in-Rock, one of the most historically significant sites in southern Illinois, with a limestone bluff traverse above the Ohio River in the eastern portion of Shawnee National Forest. The cave itself sits at the foot of a 50-foot limestone bluff on the Ohio River bank and has an entrance large enough to admit a small boat which is exactly how river pirates in the early 1800s used it. The cave's documented history as an outlaw hideout gives it an unusual character among forest attractions.

The 3-mile loop uses the cave area as a starting point and then climbs to the top of the limestone bluff for views across the Ohio River into Kentucky. The bluff section is the topographic highlight: the river is wide here, and barge traffic moves upstream and downstream continuously. From the bluff edge, you can see for several miles in both directions along the river corridor.

The trail sits at the boundary between Cave-in-Rock State Park and Shawnee National Forest, and the jurisdictional line is not always obvious on the ground. The state park manages the cave attraction and facilities; the national forest manages the bluff trail.

The Route

Miles 0 to 0.7: From the parking area near the state park, the trail passes the cave entrance and begins climbing toward the bluff top. The climb is steady but not steep.

Miles 0.7 to 1.8: The bluff top section provides the best views of the Ohio River and the most dramatic terrain. The limestone rim is more rugged than the sandstone formations in other parts of the forest.

Miles 1.8 to 3: The loop descends through oak-hickory forest on the inland side of the bluff and returns to the parking area via a more gradual route.

When to Visit

April through November is the main season. Spring migration brings birds along the Ohio River corridor this is a documented migration hotspot. Fall is popular. Check conditions before visiting.

What to Bring

  • A liter of water. No water sources on the trail.
  • Hiking shoes with good grip for limestone sections
  • Binoculars for river watching and bird-watching on the bluff
  • Tick repellent from April through October

Practical Details

A vault toilet at the state park facilities. No fee for the trail (as of 2026). The state park charges a separate fee for some facilities. Follow Leave No Trace principles. Stay back from the bluff edge.

Getting There

From Elizabethtown, Illinois, take State Highway 146 east to Cave-in-Rock. The state park and trail parking are in the town of Cave-in-Rock on the Ohio River. GPS coordinates are approximately 37.47°N, 88.16°W.

Trailhead Parking

Parking near Cave-in-Rock State Park, which borders the national forest. Small lot near the cave entrance.

← Back to Shawnee National Forest

More Trails in Shawnee National Forest

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Camel Rock Trail

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A short 2-mile out-and-back hike to Camel Rock, a distinctive sandstone formation in the Garden of the Gods area of Shawnee National Forest, with views across Illinois hill country.

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Garden of the Gods Loop

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A 1-mile loop at the Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest, passing ancient sandstone formations and a dramatic overlook with some of the best views in the Midwest.

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Jackson Falls

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A 1.5-mile loop to a sandstone waterfall grotto in Shawnee National Forest, one of the most photogenic natural features in Illinois with excellent swimming in summer.

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Little Grand Canyon Loop

6 mi600 ft gain
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A 6-mile loop through the most dramatic canyon in Illinois, descending into a sandstone slot canyon with a seasonal waterfall and traversing the canyon rim in Shawnee National Forest.

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Ohio River Bluffs Trail

5 mi400 ft gain
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A 5-mile out-and-back trail along limestone bluffs above the Ohio River in Shawnee National Forest, with panoramic river views and access to one of the largest rivers in North America.

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Pounds Hollow Recreation Area Loop

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A 3.5-mile loop around Pounds Hollow Lake in Shawnee National Forest, through oak-hickory forest with lake views and access to one of the few public swim lakes in southern Illinois.

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Rim Rock Trail

3 mi300 ft gain
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A 3-mile loop in the Shawnee National Forest passing ancient Kaskaskia Indian grinding stone, sandstone cliff overlooks, and dense bottomland hardwood forest near Elizabethtown, Illinois.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of Smuggler's Cave?
The cave at Cave-in-Rock was used by river pirates who preyed on flatboats traveling the Ohio River in the early 1800s. Samuel Mason and other outlaws used the cave as a base. Interpretive signs explain this colorful and dark chapter of early American history.
Can I enter the cave?
The cave at Cave-in-Rock is accessible from the adjacent state park side and is a popular attraction. The cave is a large chamber, not a maze system. Check with Cave-in-Rock State Park for current access rules.
Are there views of the Ohio River on this trail?
Yes. The bluff section of the loop provides views across the Ohio River to the Kentucky shore. The river is wide and active with barge traffic at this point.
Is this trail in Shawnee National Forest or Cave-in-Rock State Park?
The trail traverses both units, starting near the state park cave attraction and continuing onto national forest land for the bluff section. Check current signage for jurisdictional boundaries.