Trail of Tears

By: Author Unknown

Trail of Tears, one of Illinois' state forests, is situated in western Union County, five miles northwest of Jonesboro and 20 miles south of Murphysboro. Just over 5,000 acres are within the State Forest.

The area was used extensively by prehistoric Native Americans. Individuals and small groups hunted game or gathered nuts within the Ozarks, but established their settlements closer to the Mississippi River or Clear Creek. Chert was mined (for making tools) at Iron Mountain, east of the Forest.

As settlers of European descent entered (around 1803), Native Americans were pushed south and west. In 1838-39 the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw nations were forced by the U.S. Army to move from the southeast to reservations in Oklahoma Territory. They overwintered at makeshift camps 4 miles south of the Forest's southern boundary. Bitter cold and starvation claimed hundreds of lives. The cruel trek came to be known as the "Trail of Tears." The State Forest's name memorializes the tragic event.

Horseback riding is permitted along designated horse trails.

Access and trailer parking are available at the equestrian trailhead along the county blacktop road.

Horseback use and horse trailer parking is not permitted on or along roads or fire trails (except where those are part of a horse trail), on hiking trails or anywhere south of the blacktop road.

The horseback trails are open for use from May 1 to the first firearm deer hunting season (mid-November). These trails may be closed temporarily in the event of heavy rains during the riding season; it is best to call the site for a current report on trail conditions (618-833-4910).

This information was compiled by the crack research team at HorsebackRidingArticles.com. It is by no means complete. We have tried to be as accurate as possible.

If you have first-hand experience with this trail riding venue we encourage you to post your article here. Tell us what's good and bad, any pointers, directions, parking or camping information and be sure to say which trails you like. Articles can be easily posted using the "Submit Articles" link on the left of every page. There is no limit.

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