Hiking at Ferne Clyffe State Park in Shawnee National Forest
We began our Ferne Clyffe State Park ramble up on top of a bluff. Upon embarking on the trails, we were unsure how far the noted waterfall would be from the trailhead. Soon, we found ourselves on a rocky descent down to the canyon floor. The descent rewarded us with intriguing views of rock formations in addition to a bit of a hiking challenge. Ferne Clyffe State Park certainly provides a landscape not to be missed nestled within Shawnee National Forest!
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| A rocky landscape with a variety of vistas entices at Ferne Clyffe State Park. |
Hiking Through a Rocky Landscape
Ferne Clyffe State Park holds 18 different trails ranging from easy to moderate to difficult. We took the Big Rocky Hollow Trail which is moderate in difficulty. Along our hike, we admired nature as a sculptor. Layered sandstone molded by the elements forms interesting shapes. The rocky landscape added challenge to the trail but also afforded amazing views.
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| Rock formations intrigue. |
Overturned boulders throughout the preserve may be reminders of earthquakes along the New Madrid Fault in 1811-1812. The overall landscape includes cliffs, canyons, dells, streams, a lake and more.
Reaching Ferne Clyffe State Park's Waterfall
Eventually, we reached the canyon floor and started meandering towards the park's intermittent waterfall. We walked along and skipped on rocks through the little stream. Soon, we curved towards the 100 ft. waterfall. As an intermittent waterfall, the waterfall's flow varies. During our visit, we enjoyed water falling in glistening pearls.
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| Glistening pearls fall in the form of a waterfall at Ferne Clyffe State Park. |
Ferne Clyffe State Park has a long history. Many Native American artifacts have been discovered in the preserve including pottery, flint chips, tools and more. George Rogers Clark reportedly camped here on his way to Fort Kaskaskia with his Kentucky band of "Long Knives." Ferne Clyffe is definitely a spot where you can feel these stories from ages ago.
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| A gentle waterfall tumbles through moss-covered rock. |
As we hiked back up the trail, we admired the gentle trickle of a little waterfall tumbling through moss-covered layers of rock while reflecting on the beauty of our rocky, nature amble. Ferne Clyffe State Park molds a dreamy scene of rock formations full of moss, ferns and lichens with the gentle trickle of a stream and waterfalls. Spectacular!
Activities at Ferne Clyffe State Park
- Hiking
- Camping
- Picnicking
- Fishing
- Horseback Riding
- Near other hiking opportunities in Shawnee National Forest
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