Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road Itinerary
Take a journey through the Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road and discover the beauty of Southern Illinois. Starting in Harrisburg, this 106 km route takes you through Mitchellsville, Karbers Ridge, and Cave-In-Rock, offering stunning views of the Shawnee National Forest, the Ohio River and the Shawnee Hills. Along the way, you can explore the historic sites, such as the Cave-In-Rock State Park and the Garden of the Gods.
This trip is suitable for all drivers, with good road conditions throughout the year. The best time to drive this route is in spring and fall, when the temperatures are mild and the colours of the landscape are at their finest. With a moderate budget, this trip can easily be managed in one day, making it perfect for a weekend getaway.
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number of days
106 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Harrisburg
Distance 106 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
27.5 kWh
Airports
BNA
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STL
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Harrisburg, the capital city of Pennsylvania, is a great starting point for any road trip. The city is located in the heart of the Susquehanna Valley and is home to many interesting sights. The most popular sights in Harrisburg include the National Civil War Museum, the State Museum of Pennsylvania, and the Pennsylvania State Capitol.
For travelers coming from abroad, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is the closest international airport. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road trip. The road trip takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Pennsylvania, including the Appalachian Mountains, the Susquehanna River, and the Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore, including historic sites, state parks, and wineries.
Harrisburg is a great starting point for any road trip. From the city, you can explore the beautiful Susquehanna Valley and take the Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road trip to experience some of the most picturesque parts of Pennsylvania. With its abundant attractions, Harrisburg is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the best of the Keystone State.
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Harrisburg
- Mitchellsville
Distance 11 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: fast
3.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Harrisburg, United States, and travel 7 miles to Mitchellsville. The drive will take you less than an hour and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places along the way.
In Harrisburg, you can visit the National Civil War Museum, a great place to learn about the history of the American Civil War. The State Museum of Pennsylvania is also worth a visit, as it houses collections of art, science and history.
As you drive to Mitchellsville, you can stop at the Appalachian Brewing Company, a microbrewery with an impressive selection of craft beers. You can also visit the Indian Echo Caverns, a great spot for a fun and educational experience.
When you arrive in Mitchellsville, you can explore the historic town center, take a stroll along the Susquehanna River, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!
Mitchellsville - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Mitchellsville
- Karbers Ridge
Distance 23 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
7.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to Mitchellsville and Karbers Ridge! This 15 mi drive will take you less than an hour, and it is a part of a larger tour.
Start your journey in Mitchellsville, a small town located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains. Here you can visit the beautiful Old Town Square, the historical Mitchellsville Church, and the Mitchellsville Museum.
Continue your journey to Karbers Ridge, a small village located in the Shawnee National Forest. Here you can visit the Karbers Ridge Nature Preserve, the Karbers Ridge Overlook, and the Karbers Ridge Wildlife Area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Karbers Ridge - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - diq.m.wikipedia.org
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3
Karbers Ridge
- Cave-In-Rock
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
9.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip stage from Karbers Ridge to Cave-In-Rock? This 20mi drive will take you less than one hour. You will start in Karbers Ridge, where you can visit the Garden of the Gods, a stunning outdoor recreation area with spectacular rock formations. You can also explore the Little Grand Canyon, an impressive natural area with breathtaking views.
Once you hit the road, you will be surrounded by the beauty of the Shawnee National Forest. You can take a break and enjoy a picnic at the Rim Rock Recreational Area, with its stunning views of the Ohio River.
Your destination is Cave-In-Rock, a small village located on the banks of the Ohio River. Here you can explore the Cave-In-Rock State Park, a historic site with a beautiful waterfall, and the Cave-In-Rock itself, a 55ft-high cave carved into the limestone bluff.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. This is one of the most interesting stages of a larger tour so don’t miss the chance to explore Karbers Ridge and Cave-In-Rock!
Cave-In-Rock - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Cave-In-Rock
- Elizabethtown
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: modest
4.0 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in Cave-In-Rock, United States and ends in Elizabethtown, a distance of 9mi and a driving time of fewer than 1 hour.
In Cave-In-Rock, you can explore the majestic Cave-In-Rock State Park, with its breathtaking views of the Ohio River. You can also visit Cave-In-Rock Ferry, the oldest operating ferry on the Ohio River, and the Cave-In-Rock Historic Site, where you can learn about the history of the area.
In Elizabethtown, you can visit the Elizabethtown City Park, which offers a variety of activities and attractions, such as a swimming pool, picnic areas, and a playground. You can also explore the Elizabethtown Historic District, with its many historic homes and buildings.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Elizabethtown - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Elizabethtown
- Golconda
Distance 25 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
7.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Elizabethtown to Golconda road trip! This stage of your tour is a 15mi drive that will take you less than 1 hour to complete.
Your journey begins in Elizabethtown, a small town located in Hardin County, Kentucky. Here, you can visit the Elizabethtown Nature Park, a great spot for outdoor activities and exploration. You can also check out the local museum, the Hardin County History Museum, and the historic Freeman Lake Park.
Your next stop is the city of Golconda, located in Pope County, Illinois. This city is home to the Golconda Marina, where you can enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Ohio River. You can also explore the local nature trails and the historic Golconda Fort.
Be sure to check out the itinerary for this stage of your tour for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great trip!
Golconda - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.wallpaperflare.com
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Golconda
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Golconda is a small city in the United States located at the end of the "Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road". This scenic route is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Southern Illinois and the Ohio River Valley. It offers spectacular views of rolling hills and valleys, as well as historic sites and interesting stops along the way.
Golconda is the perfect place to end your road trip. It offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. The Ohio River, located just outside of town, is a great place for fishing, boating, and other water activities. There are also nearby state parks, golf courses, and campgrounds.
In town, visitors can explore the historic sites of downtown Golconda. The Abraham Lincoln Memorial is a popular attraction, as is the Old Fort Massac State Park. There are also a number of unique shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.
For those looking to extend their trip, the closest international airport is Evansville Regional Airport (EVV). It is located just under an hour away and offers regular flights to major cities throughout the country.
No matter how you choose to end your road trip, Golconda is the perfect destination to experience the best of Southern Illinois and the Ohio River Valley.
Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Harrisburg
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End:
Golconda
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Distance:
106 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Nashville International Airport (BNA),
St Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Shawnee Hills Scenic Byway, a breathtaking 106-km journey through Southern Illinois' most picturesque landscapes, beginning in Harrisburg and meandering through delightful towns like Mitchellsville and Karbers Ridge, before reaching the majestic Cave-In-Rock. This Road Trip offers an immersion into the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, showcasing the spectacular vistas of the Ohio River and the enchanting Shawnee Hills.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Harrisburg: Known as the `Gateway to the Shawnee National Forest,` Harrisburg serves as the perfect starting point for your adventure.
- Mitchellsville & Karbers Ridge: These communities provide a serene backdrop, nestled amidst lush hills and valleys.
- Cave-In-Rock State Park: An iconic feature known for its massive riverside cave that was once a hideout for river pirates, providing a glimpse into the area's storied past.
- Garden of the Gods: A geological marvel offering panoramic views, unique sandstone rock formations, and popular hiking trails like the Observation Trail, which leads visitors to the most awe-inspiring vistas.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal times to undertake this Road Trip are during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and nature's palette is at its most vibrant, with wildflowers blooming in spring or the foliage turning fiery hues in fall.
Potential Risks:
While the journey is typically safe with well-maintained Roads, travelers should be vigilant for wildlife on the Roads, particularly during dawn and dusk. It's also wise to stay updated with weather forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly, especially within forested regions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This scenic byway is part of the Illinois State Scenic Byway system and has been recognized for its outstanding natural beauty.
- Archaeological evidence suggests that Native Americans inhabited the areas around the Shawnee Hills for thousands of years.
- The Shawnee National Forest covers over 280,000 acres and is home to diverse ecosystems and an array of wildlife.
- The Road Trip can be a day-long excursion, but many choose to extend their stay to fully explore the area's hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and local wineries.
A good choice for:
The Shawnee Hills Panoramic Road is more than just a drive; it's a journey through time and nature. It's an accessible and rewarding experience for Roadtrippers who desire to discover the historical richness and stunning landscapes of Southern Illinois, with engaging and educational stops sprinkled along the route. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, this Road Trip is sure to leave you with lasting memories.
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