Clear Springs Wilderness - Shawnee National Forest

Head out to Clear Springs Wilderness for a hiking or backpacking adventure! The elevations range from 400 to over 900 feet in this rough terrain with ridgetops, steep slopes, creeks, and sweeping views of the Mississippi River valley. Although there are several trailheads for the wilderness area on the east and west sides, the 6.7 mile one-way Godwin Trail is one of the most popular in the Shawnee National Forest. The trail crosses two of the largest wilderness areas - Clear Springs and Bald Knob. Watch for wildflowers in the spring and wildlife from white-tailed deer to wild turkey, woodpeckers, reptiles and amphibians. Dispersed tent camping is permitted in the wilderness area.

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