Garden of the Gods Gate Closure
Contact Information: Samantha Stoffregen samantha.stoffregen@usda.gov
HARRISBURG, IL, January 08, 2025—Due to the recent winter storm, approximately 20 large trees are currently blocking the road into Garden of the Gods on the Shawnee National Forest. Many others are top-heavy and leaning within falling distance of the road. The road itself is also ice-covered and treacherous.
For the safety of visitors and Forest Service employees, the gate will be closed until further notice, to get through the next winter weather event forecasted for Friday and allow for safe conditions for employees to take care of the downed trees. Shawnee National Forest employees plan to re-assess and hopefully start removing trees with equipment next week, as long as weather and safety conditions permit it.
Updates will be posted to the forest’s website and social media accounts.