Pomona Natural Bridge – Shawnee National Forest
Shawnee National Forest – Pomona Natural Bridge Located within the Shawnee National Forest lies one of most spectacular examples of a natural bridge in Illinois. The trail that loops around the area is approximately 1/3 mile, but what it lacks in distance, it makes up in scenery. Why is it Here? Standing high atop a bluff one can look out over a natural wonder that appears as though it could have been chiseled by the hand of man. Man had... Read More
Cedar Creek – Winter Series
February 7 - by Gary Marks A Dream What I see before me is a masterpiece, created by a great unseen artist. I look around trying to take in every single detail, but I am soon overwhelmed. I feel as though I am walking through a dream and will soon wake up and all of this will be gone, but it is not a dream. The temperatures hover around the 30′s and I know that within a matter of time this great piece of canvas will be wiped clean. ... Read More
Bell Smith Springs – Winter Return – Part 4 – Finale
January 11, 2010 Missed Part 1 of Bell Smith Springs – Winter Return? Click here to read. Missed Part 2 of Bell Smith Springs – Winter Return? Click here to read. Missed Part 3 of Bell Smith Springs – Winter Return? Click here to read. - by Gary Marks The Finale First of all, I would like to thank you the reader for continuing to read the articles on Bell Smith Springs. This will absolutely be the final post for the Winter... Read More
Bell Smith Springs – Grand Staircase & Natural Bridge – Part II
This series, Notes from the Trail, focuses on thoughts and events that happen with the interactions in nature. Did you miss part one? Click on the following link to get caught up on all the action – Bell Smith Springs: Part One – Devils Backbone. Monday July 12, 2010 I walk amongst the trees and shrubs that thrive within the canyon. In places it feels like a jungle as I move branches away from hitting me in the face. Another web wraps... Read More
Bell Smith Springs – Devils Backbone – Part I
This series, Notes from the Trail, focuses on thoughts and events that happen with the interactions in nature. Monday July 12, 2010 As I head off the main road on the outskirts of Ozark, IL, the road turns to gravel. All roads leading to my destination are made of rock bringing to this area a sense of remoteness. The truck bounces along the uneven road. The familiar clouds of dust that usually bellow from the tires are absent. Last nights... Read More
