Contact Information
Shawnee National Forest | Southern Illinois
Book Your Guided Hike | Plan Your Itinerary
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Hiking with Shawn
Originally started as a way to promote hiking to his friends, Hiking with Shawn has become the number one hiking and backpacking resource community in the Shawnee National Forest. Founder, Shawn Gossman, hosts the YouTube Channel, Hiking with Shawn as well as Hiking with Shawn LLC. Shawn offers guided hiking experiences and customized itinerary planning throughout Southern Illinois, with a focus on the Shawnee National Forest and nearby state parks. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or looking to explore the region more intentionally, Shawn provides local insight, route expertise, and a deep appreciation for the landscapes that make Southern Illinois unique.
Highlights
Guided Hiking Services
Shawn hikes, bikes, backpacks, and visits various forested areas in the Shawnee National Forest, local state parks and other areas promoting outdoor recreational activities to obtain video to show to locals and non-locals alike. Shawn now offers paid guided hikes, available weekends year-round, within the Shawnee National Forest and Illinois state parks.
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1–2 people: $65 per person
3–8 people: $55 per person
Pricing covers up to 10 miles in a selected area
Hikes are tailored to group ability, interests, and conditions
Itinerary Planning
For visitors who prefer to explore on their own, Shawn also offers custom itinerary planning for the Shawnee National Forest and surrounding outdoor destinations.
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Starting at $50 per itinerary
Ideal for weekend trips, multi-day stays, or first-time visitors
Plans can include hiking suggestions, scenic stops, and pacing recommendations
Tips for Visitors
Blogs – Don’t miss Shawn’s free articles and marketing blogs like “Hiking with Kids” and other tips.
Trail Guide Series – Explore Hiking with Shawn’s Trail Guide Series: “Rocky Bluff Trail & Wild Turkey Trail” and follow Shawn as he hikes both trails found in the Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.
Water, Woods & Wildlife – Check out Hiking with Shawn’s article “Hiking & Biking at Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge” published in visitSI’s outdoor guide: Water, Woods & Wildlife in Williamson County.
