Little Grand Canyon, National Natural Landmark in Jackson County, Illinois
The canyon spans 3.6 miles through sandstone formations, featuring permanent and seasonal waterfalls that cascade through the Shawnee National Forest landscape.
The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed stone steps along sections of the trail during their work to develop recreational facilities in the 1930s.
Native American tribes maintained connections to this land before its designation as a National Natural Landmark in February 1980.
The trail system includes a 350-foot elevation change from trailhead to canyon floor, with facilities limited to a picnic area and pit toilet.
The canyon earned the name Hanging Gardens of Egypt in the 1930s due to its extensive wildflower populations throughout the geological formations.
Location: Jackson County
GPS coordinates: 37.68640,-89.39840
Latest update: May 21, 2025 19:40
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