Life in Karbers Ridge

Velna Dobbs, postmistress, lives in a small white house in Karbers Ridge with her dog Barney. But she's not alone... View Now

Elite-8 Landmarks

From the Little Grand Canyon to Lusk Creek Canyon, national natural landmarks abound around the SNF View Now

Saloon style root beer

Thirsty? Take a trip beyond the boardwalk of Alto Pass into an eclectic establishment that serves a sweeter stout. View Now

Make sugar

See how maple trees lead to gooey treats and join a group that learns how to tap into syrupmaking during the spring at SIUC's Touch of Nature...View Now

Float along the Cache

Take a trip back in time with Curt Carter to discover how the Cache River revived in this award-winning treat by photojournalist Emily Sunblade. View Now

Hit trails on horses

The Shawnee National Forest offers spectacular views for communities of horseback riders who enjoy camaraderie on the many trails... View Now

Duck Inn, waddle out

Join photojournalist Suzanne Caraker for a visit to the local tavern known for its mascots, chickens and a pot-belly pig... View Now

Chocolate choices

After burning calories in the SNF, travelers often stop by a Golconda factory where the "deviled eggs" might not taste good with bacon. View Now

Vulture culture

Entertainers, vendors, and craft makers hit the Makanda boardwalk for the annual Vulture Fest, a celebration of art, music, and people... View Now

Glimpsing petroglyphs

The late Jim Jung dedicated his life to studying the marks early forest dwellers made in the rocks of the ShawneeView Now

Chasing the Dream

Alex Mitrevski pursues the American dream serving ham and cheese sandwiches -- his own slice of heaven.View Now

Connecting the spots

John O'Dell took inspiration from an SIUC president's map and helped volunteers forge the River to River TrailView Now

History of unrest, legal challenges

WSIU shares documentaries about the fight to save the Shawnee National Forest from timber interests. A major battle took place at the Fairview timber sale.

Were you involved? If so, send a note to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Volunteers rebuild trails

Did you know that to rebuild a wilderness trail, no modern implements are allowed? Using only human power and traditional tools, volunteers tackle the task.

Watch this report by Ashley Parham about how people can and do make a difference in the Shawnee Forest...