Saline County High Point Trip Report

Horton Hill

Author: John Mitchler

In deep southern IL, this distinct, wooded hill requires a hike to visit and is in the Shawnee National Forest. Jon Mann and Tim Worth both used a 2-mile hike to reach the summit. I tried and got lost in the failing light and sleet. Instead, I took a new approach across unposted land.

Reach Herod on IL34, 9 miles north of IL146 and 7.5 miles south of IL145. From Herod, go north on IL34 and at mile 1.8 cross the Pope-Saline county line. At mile 2.0 turn right (east). This turnoff is 5.4 miles south of IL145. At mile 0.9 cross the stream and continue past the Mann-Worth trailhead at mile 1.0. At mile 1.9 the road crests at the Horton-Wamble saddle. Park.

Walk northeast uphill for 0.4 mile, gaining 360 feet to the summit of Horton Hill. Look for Jon Mann's Blair-Witchesque tripod along the hiking trail. I took 20 minutes to gain the summit.