Today, we explored a swath of the Shawnee Hills, southeast of Marion, Illinois. Rather than describe the adventure in detail, I have decided to offer a few photos that depict the geography of that region. These landforms reflect the cap of Carboniferous sandstone that lies across the region and the erosive forces that have been active for millions of years (especially during the Pleistocene).
As is usually the case, I enjoyed the journey as much (if not more) as the destinations. To paraphrase James Taylor, "It's enough to cover ground. It's enough to be on your way."
Sand Cave:
Jackson Falls:
Fern Clyffe State Park:
