Experience an authentic wine culture as you travel from winery to winery through some of the most beautiful Midwest countryside. Set in the Shawnee National Forest, the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail features eleven boutique wineries, more than one hundred wines to sample, and an unforgettable experience. Along the way, a wide variety of unique eateries, craft breweries, art galleries, orchards/farm markets, and more will complete your visit.

Murphysboro is Illinois’ BBQ capital, and on the northern end of the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. BBQ aficionados have long known the trip to Murphysboro is more than worth it. The town may be the only one in the country with two Barbecue Hall of Famers. In addition to the BBQ history, experience a booming craft beer movement that is vibrant and exciting. Explore a variety of shops and the General John A. Logan Museum.

Travel south on Highway 127 to enjoy the distinctive character of six wineries on the west side. Explore the scenery of the Shawnee National Forest with a hike at the Pomona Natural Bridge or a more in depth adventure at the Little Grand Canyon area.

After a visit to the village of Alto Pass, take a drive up Bald Knob mountain for views of the forest valley. Back on Highway 127 continue south to Highway 146 east to Jonesboro, where one of the historic Lincoln and Douglas debates was held. Lincoln Memorial Park offers easy paths to stretch your legs, and get your photo with Lincoln and Douglas!

Continue east to Anna. After you cross the railroad tracks, at the four-way stop, turn left and follow Old Highway 51 north to Cobden. There are five more wineries to discover on the east side of the Wine Trail. Old Highway 51 leads to new Highway 51 and crosses over to Makanda Road, which leads into the village of Makanda, the gateway into Giant City State Park, named for the unique impressions made by its massive sandstone structures and home of the Giant City Streets—huge bluffs of sandstone formed 12,000 years ago. While in Makanda, look for the “secret garden.”

Visit ShawneeWineTrail.com or call 1-800-C-IT-HERE for more information.

Points of Interest

1. Murphysboro, IL

2. Little Grand Canyon

3. Rendleman Orchards

4. Bald Knob Cross

5. Makanda Boardwalk

6. Shawnee Bluff Canopy Tours

* Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Wineries