Saturday March 7, 2026 Hike Summary

It was perfect hiking conditions on Saturday for the 2026 kickoff hike. 60 degrees, rain and even a tornado warning blowing up our phones half way through. There were 6 of us on the hike. Chris Drone drove out just to take the group photo, but didn’t want to get wet. It was an in and out hike in the rain and fog made for some amazing views. The waterfalls and rushing water were amazing this time. There were also some great conversations along the trail. It was a great hike. Don’t the next one.

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River-to-River Trail Society Announces Spring, 2026 Hiking Schedule

The River-to River Trail Society announces its schedule of free guided hikes in and about the Shawnee National Forest for Spring, 2026. All hikes are open to the public free of charge. No reservations are required except where noted on schedule. These hikes are of at least moderate difficulty, and are intended for people in good health who have done some hiking. Boots or sturdy shoes and a walking stick are recommended for all hikes. Hikers should bring their own water and a snack. No dogs, please.

The River-to-River Trail Society is an Illinois not-for-profit corporation founded in 1993 by John O’Dell to promote completion of the River-to-River Trail, which now runs 160 miles through the Shawnee National Forest between Elizabethtown on the Ohio River and Grand Tower on the Mississippi River. The Society engages in trail maintenance and advocacy, and it offers free guided hikes to members and the public during the spring and fall hiking seasons. In addition, the Society has a Trail Guide to the entire River-to-River Trail, which can be downloaded for free from the Society’s website: http://www.rivertorivertrail.net/.