A wonderfully scenic trail, Rim Rock National Recreation Trail leads around the rim of a rock escarpment, hence its name. Rim Rock has a long history of drawing people to its forested bluffs for hiking and picnicking. In 1980, it was designated a national recreation trail because of its exceptional scenic beauty and historic
values. To early settlers this unique formation was known as ‘the Pounds,’ an old English term meaning “some sort of enclosure.” This is how the valley lying to the east got its name, Pounds Hollow.
Trail Highlights
This area is known for its spectacular show of spring woodland flowers along both its upper and lower trails. The upper trail however is paved and less strenuous for hikers. The lower trail has a dirt surface and leads along the base of the bluffs before looping back to the parking lot.
Along the lower trail, you will find impressive sandstone rock formations, massive bottomland hardwood trees and Ox-lot Cave, a massive rock overhang where 19th century loggers kept their oxen and horses. The upper trail features interpretive signs explaining the past uses of the area and the natural and cultural characteristics found today.
The trail leads past remnants of a stone wall built by prehistoric Native Americans, a CCC plantation and an observation platform. Here you have the option of descending the stairs to the valley and Ox-lot Cave. floor and Ox-lot Cave. Be aware that large icicles form along the bluff walls during the winter months.
Length: 0.5 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour
Surface Type: Flagstone
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Recommended Season: All year
Facilities:
Accessible Indian walls picnic area and vault toilets; interpretive signs and Beaver trail connects to Pounds Hollow Recreation Area.
Access:
From Harrisburg,IL follow Highway 34/145 south 6 miles, then continue on Highway 34 south for 9 miles. Turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road, 8.3 miles to the Rim Rock entrance road. From Evansville, IN, take Highway 62 west & continue on IL. State Route 141 to Highway 1. Go south on Highway 1 about 24 miles to Karbers Ridge Road, then west 3 miles to the Rim Rock entrance road
Picnic area is open 6 am–10 pm. Stay on the designated trail, rappelling and rock climbing are prohibited, pack it in-pack it out and pets are allowed only on a leash.
Safety:
Be prepared in spring, summer and autumn for rapid changes in weather as thunderstorms may develop rapidly. Timber rattlesnakes and copperheads may occasionally be present so please stay alert. None of these snakes tend to be aggressive but they will defend themselves if stepped on or threatened at close range. Just watch the ground as you walk and you should not have any problems. Be aware of pedestrians in the parking areas. Summer temperatures can be high, 90 to 100 F but are generally less in the mesic forests and canyon floor along the creeks. Bring plenty of bottled water as creek water is not suitable for drinking. Wear appropriate clothing for the outdoors. Be sure to bring sunscreen and insect repellant. Wood ticks are always present, except for winter months. Be sure to check yourself out for ticks after you visit. Poison ivy is common; remember, "Leaves of three let it be!"
Surrounding Area :
Pounds Hollow Recreation Area, Camp Cadiz Campground, High Knob Picnic Area, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, Ohio River National Scenic Byway and the River to River Trail.