Planning Your Trip

Looking for the perfect destination along the SOAR Route? Our SOAR Research Page is your guide to planning the ultimate outdoor adventure. Explore detailed links and resources for each stop — from trail maps and beach access to quirky shops and scenic overlooks. Whether you’re into hiking, paddling, swimming, or strolling through small-town charm, this page helps you discover what each destination has to offer so you can pick the one that fits your vibe.

A photo of a person enjoying the JAX bus system

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Giant City State Park Call to action Touch of Nature Call to action Makanda Boardwalk Call to action Cedar Lake Call to action

Giant City State Park

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Giant City State Park

Giant City State Park is a natural wonder known for its towering sandstone formations, scenic trails, and diverse recreation. Popular hiking paths like the ADA-accessible Post Oak Trail and the dramatic Devil’s Standtable make it a must-visit for all skill levels. The park also offers camping, horseback riding, rock climbing, and the iconic Giant City Lodge — home of the region’s beloved fried chicken. Open daily with trails accessible dawn to dusk, it’s the crown jewel of Southern Illinois’ outdoor destinations.

Hiking with Shawn

Hiking with Shawn is a Southern Illinois-based website focused on exploring the Shawnee National Forest and surrounding areas. It features trail guides, hiking tips, gear reviews, and personal stories to help visitors safely enjoy the outdoors. The site also promotes local tourism and offers guided tours and official merchandise.

JAX highly recommends following along on Shawn’s adventures and exploring his website.  It contains a treasure trove of helpful review and guides.

Helpful Links:

IDNR Call to action Accessibility at Giant City Call to action Giant City Map Call to action Trial Guides Call to action Hiking with Shawn Call to action

Touch of Nature

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Touch of Nature Trailhead

A scenic hub for hiking and mountain biking, Touch of Nature offers peaceful forest trails and outdoor adventure programming. Great for nature lovers, casual hikers, and anyone looking to escape into the woods for a few hours.

Helpful Links:

Touch of Nature Call to action Mountain Bike Trails Call to action

Makanda Boardwalk

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The Boadwalk

The historic Makanda Boardwalk is a small-town treasure with a big personality. Often called the “hippiest town in Illinois,” it’s lined with quirky shops, local art, vintage storefronts, and seasonal festivals like Vulture Fest. Located just outside Giant City State Park, Makanda is the perfect stop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, relaxed browsing, or snapping a photo in this creative little village nestled in the woods.

Helpful Links:

Village of Makanda Call to action Attractions Call to action Boardwalk Call to action Most Hippie Town Call to action

Cedar Lake

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Cedar Lake Beach

Cedar Lake Beach offers a peaceful swimming spot surrounded by cedar forests and limestone bluffs. The sandy beach is family-friendly and perfect for sunbathing, cooling off, or simply unwinding by the water. Maintained by the City of Carbondale, the beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and offers a quiet, scenic escape just minutes from town.

Cedar Lake Boat Ramp

The Cedar Lake Boat Ramp provides access to one of the most beautiful lakes in Southern Illinois. With a 10-horsepower motor limit, it’s ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and quiet fishing. Surrounded by over 40 miles of shoreline and peaceful coves, it’s a favorite for anglers, paddlers, and anyone seeking solitude on the water. Kayak rentals and trail access make it a great launch point for full-day outdoor adventures.

Helpful Links:

Carbondale Call to action Kayaking Call to action Beach Call to action
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