Ohio River Scenic Byway of Illinois

"Life is short. Take the Scenic Route!"

Introduction (page 2)

The Byway winds from the Wabash Bridge at the Indiana border south along the Ohio River before it reaches the Mississippi River at Cairo. At 188-miles, it's a four hour journey. That is, it's four hours if you can resist stopping to discover the moving stories of American's early years at historic sites, or the invitations to simply relax and enjoy one of the country's favorite and most honored roads. From New Haven to Cave-in Rock, the Ohio River valley will stir your senses and show you exotic, wild and natural beauty you may have never imagined. Here, where the river is at its most dramatic, you'll be at the edge of the Shawnee National Forest.

Drive the byway to Rim Rock National Recreation Trail to see geological wonders, and Pounds Hollow, where an ancient Indian wall still stands surrounded by sandstone cliffs. Just west is the Garden of the Gods Wilderness Area with its vast view from bluffs, eroded into shapes like "Devil's Smokestack" and "Tower of Babel."

Then take in the passing ferry boats and other river traffic from what was once a hangout for river pirates at Cave-in Rock State Park, an enormous limestone cavern. The park lodge rests high above the river. Heading south, a narrow and hilly segment of the byway leads to Tower Rock, the highest point on the byway.

From Elizabethtown to Golconda, the byway tells many parts of the American story. Hog Thief Creek near Elizabethtown is the site of the state's first iron ore furnace, a major source of iron for the Union in the Civil War. Rosiclare is home to the fluorspar industry, an important part of the history and lives of many people throughout the area for several generations.

Then remember the thousands lost on the Cherokee Indians' Trail of Tears which comes across the Ohio River at Golconda. The tragic 1000-mile march passed through here in frigid winter more than 170 years ago.