Red Cedar Hiking Trail

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Trail Distance: 12 miles
Time Estimate: 5 hr 30 min +
Elevation Gain: 1269 feet
Leash Rule: On Leash
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Free
Route Type: Loop
Restroom: Yes
Description

The Red Cedar Hiking Trail is a pawesome rugged trail that takes you through a forest and past stunning rock formations. This beautiful loop trail is 12 miles long, and dogs are welcome to join you on-leash.

The trail begins next to a primitive campground, and parking and restrooms are available right down the road at the Giant City Visitor’s Center. There’s no drinking water available at the trailhead or on the trail — be sure to bring plenty with you. Once you head out onto the trail, you’ll find yourself in a picturesque forest filled with wildflowers and tons of wildlife. Horses also use the trail, so be sure to look out for them as you’re walking.

The Red Cedar Hiking Trail passes through a wide variety of unique terrains. As you trek along the trail, you’ll go through a shady forest, and you’ll also walk between sheer rock walls. At one point, you’ll pass a lovely little creek with a waterfall. This creek is a great place to splash around with your dog on a hot day.

About halfway through the trail, you’ll reach the Red Cedar Campground, where you’ll find restrooms and picnic tables. This campground is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy a snack or lunch with your dog before you tackle the second half of the hike.

The second half of the path looks similar to the first half, with lots of beautiful rock formations, hilly areas, and small creeks. There are sometimes loose rocks on the trail — be sure to watch your footing as you’re trekking through the forest.

The Red Cedar Hiking Trail is a furrific, fun trail that’s perfect to do with adventurous dogs. Bring some doggy bags so you can clean up after your dog during your walk, and have a great time hiking this scenic trail!

Wag! does not allow or encourage Pet Care Providers to bring dogs to parks.
Trail Features
Rocky, Steep Inclines, Forest, River
Waterfall, Wildflowers
Cautions & Considerations

Before you head out onto the Red Cedar Hiking Trail, there are a few things you’ll want to take into consideration. Copperhead snakes live along the trail — be on the lookout for them as you’re walking. There’s also poison ivy by the trail, and so it’s a good idea to watch where you’re stepping. Also, be sure to bring bug repellent and tick repellent with you. You’ll also want to check your dog carefully for ticks after your hike. Hunters are also allowed on the trail, so practice caution. Note that the trail is closed during shotgun deer seasons.

Address
248-842 Giant City Rd
Makanda, IL 62958
Hours
Mon 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tue 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wed 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thu 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Fri 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sat 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sun 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Address
248-842 Giant City Rd
Makanda, IL 62958
Hours
Mon 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tue 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wed 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thu 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Fri 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sat 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sun 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM