Before the Shawnee National Forest became a National Forest, newspaperman L.O. Trigg, known as Col. Trigg, recognized the potential for this part of Illinois in the early 1930s when he began organizing an annual “Ozark Tour.” Each year a group of about 20 men would spend three days traveling with Col. Trigg, visiting unique sites in the area.
Many of the locations visited are now part of Illinois State Parks or the Shawnee National Forest. Col. Trigg recognized the importance of sharing the natural beauty of southeastern Illinois with others and was instrumental in building support for the Shawnee National Forest. Starting in 1931 and continuing annually until his death in 1949, Col. L.O. Trigg led expeditions into the forests of southern Illinois to demonstrate to the public at large the natural beauty of this corner of the state. In a large part due to these annual Ozark Tours, the National Forest Commission authorized the purchase of lands in southern Illinois resulting in the establishment of the Shawnee National Forest in 1939.
Col. Trigg was part of a movement to promote the area as the Illinois Ozarks. Today we have embraced the spirit of Col. Trigg and others as we continue to invite visitors to “Experience the Illinois Ozarks.” Fall is the ideal time to join the Ozark Tour on Sept. 30. And, it's a wonderful time of year to view scenic and historic sites in southern Illinois, of which among these are Indian rock art site, a state champion cypress tree, Cache Wetlands Center, site of Cantonment Wilkinsonville, and Rainbow Arch.
Join The Fall Ozark Tour Of Southern Illinois
Registration is $50/person and includes transportation, lunch, fees, experienced guides, and a souvenir T-shirt. All sites visited will be within 200 feet of the bus and will involve minimal hiking. Please plan appropriate footwear and clothing. Participants will meet at the Vienna Ranger Station in Vienna, IL at 8:00. Advance registration is required: [email protected] or 618-499-9174.
To explore more of the Ozark's visit the Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau website at www.southernmostillinois.com for upcoming events, entertainment, area specials and local winery news.
