Panther Den Wilderness – Image Gallery
Panther Den Wilderness
The Panther Den Wilderness is a rugged and remote natural area offering hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities in southern Illinois.
Details
Panther Den Wilderness
The Panther Den Wilderness is a 1,080-acre natural area located in southern Illinois. This wilderness area is characterized by rugged terrain, sandstone cliffs, and dense forests. The Panther Den Wilderness is part of the Shawnee National Forest and is known for its diverse flora and fauna.Features
- Sandstone bluffs: The Panther Den Wilderness is home to several impressive sandstone bluffs that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. - Rock formations: The area is dotted with unique rock formations, including caves and crevices that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife. - Forests: The wilderness is covered in dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine trees, creating a lush and vibrant ecosystem. - Streams: The Panther Den Wilderness is crisscrossed by several streams and creeks, providing water sources for plants and animals.Ecological Significance
The Panther Den Wilderness is an important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The diverse forests provide food and shelter for numerous bird species, including warblers, thrushes, and woodpeckers. The streams and creeks support a variety of aquatic life, including fish, turtles, and amphibians. In addition, the sandstone bluffs and rock formations provide nesting sites for birds of prey, such as hawks and owls. The rugged terrain of the wilderness area also offers protection for sensitive plant species and provides a refuge for wildlife. Overall, the Panther Den Wilderness is a valuable natural area that contributes to the biodiversity and ecological health of southern Illinois. Visitors to the wilderness can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography while appreciating the unique beauty and significance of this special place.Panther Den Wilderness
Points of Interest
Panther Den Wilderness
1. Panther Den Loop Trail
The Panther Den Loop Trail is a popular hiking trail that winds through the heart of the wilderness area. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including dense forests, rocky cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Hikers can also spot various wildlife species along the way, such as deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
2. Panther Den Falls
Panther Den Falls is a picturesque waterfall located within the wilderness area. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky ledges, creating a beautiful and tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy. The area around Panther Den Falls is a great spot for picnicking, photography, and birdwatching.
3. Panther Den Overlook
The Panther Den Overlook is a scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness area. From the overlook, visitors can see miles of untouched forest, rugged cliffs, and winding rivers. It's a great spot for taking in the natural beauty of the Panther Den Wilderness and capturing stunning photographs.
4. Panther Den Campground
The Panther Den Campground is a popular camping destination for visitors looking to spend a night under the stars in the wilderness. The campground offers a range of amenities, including tent sites, RV hookups, and restroom facilities. Campers can enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and stargazing during their stay.
5. Panther Den Wildlife Observation Area
The Panther Den Wildlife Observation Area is a designated spot within the wilderness where visitors can observe and learn about the various wildlife species that call the area home. The observation area features informational signs, viewing platforms, and guided tours led by park rangers. Visitors can spot animals such as red foxes, bobcats, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.
Overall, the Panther Den Wilderness offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and outdoor adventurers to explore and enjoy.Panther Den Wilderness – Images
Description: Runoffs of Devil's Kitchen Lake flow through Panther Den. A lot of creek crossings are necessary when hiking the Panther Den Loop.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Panther Den loop is being rerouted to higher ground. Pictured here are the Americorps volunteers working on the new section of trail.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: These signs are nailed to the trees. They mark the Panther Den Loop trail
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: Panther Den road is narrow and it is gravel, not paved.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: The five-sided sign represents a wilderness area.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: There are a couple trail markers throughout the Wilderness area. The river to River trail runs through Panther Den.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: These cliffs are the reason a lot of people hike at Panther Den.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
Description: The trailhead does not include a map. This is why it is very easy to get lost at Panther Den.
Image by Meclimb4life – CC BY-SA 3.0 – Wikimedia
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