Massac is a region in southern Illinois, characterized by its diverse natural landscapes and historical significance along the Ohio River. The area encompasses the scenic Fort Massac State Park and portions of the expansive Cache River State Natural Area, featuring ancient cypress and tupelo swamps, bottomland forests, and sandstone bluffs. This varied terrain provides a suitable environment for several sports like touring cycling, road cycling, hiking, and jogging.
Massac offers a range of outdoor activities…
29
Routes
4.6
(11)
Average rating
140
People visited

44.9km
02:38
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(4)
28
riders
40.5km
03:17
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
21
riders
56.4km
03:46
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
riders
32.3km
02:00
260m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
hikers
9.72km
02:37
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
4
hikers
14.7km
03:51
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
1
hikers
6.80km
01:46
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
hikers
5.68km
01:28
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
riders
57.3km
02:14
230m
230m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

9
riders
63.7km
02:40
240m
240m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

3
riders
71.9km
02:54
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

4
riders
73.6km
02:59
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.0
(1)
7
runners
8.07km
00:54
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
runners
9.71km
01:03
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
runners
8.32km
00:54
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

3
runners
9.75km
01:10
120m
120m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Massac offers a variety of outdoor activities, including Touring cycling, Road cycling, Hiking, and Jogging. The region features diverse natural landscapes and historical sites, providing options for different interests. More information is available in guides such as Cycling around Massac.
The George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail is a prominent cycling route in Massac, spanning 8.7 miles (14.0 km) and offering scenic views along the Ohio River. This paved trail connects Metropolis and Brookport, passing through Fort Massac State Park. For more options, consult the Road Cycling Routes around Massac guide.
Massac provides several hiking opportunities, particularly within Fort Massac State Park and the Cache River State Natural Area. Trails like the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) Hickory Nut Ridge Trail offer scenic views along the Ohio River. The Todd Fink-Heron Pond Trail, with its floating boardwalk, is another notable option. Explore more in the Hiking around Massac guide.
Jogging routes in Massac include trails within Fort Massac State Park, such as the 1-mile loop through grassy woods, and the 2.5-mile (4.0 km) Hickory Nut Ridge Trail. The George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail is also suitable for running. Additional routes can be found in the Running Trails around Massac guide.
The Ohio River is a major natural feature, bordering Fort Massac State Park and offering scenic views. The Cache River State Natural Area, located within Massac County, features ancient cypress and tupelo trees, bottomland forests, and sandstone bluffs. Halesia Nature Preserve also contributes to the region's natural appeal.
Fort Massac State Park is a significant historical site, marking where Lewis and Clark added George Drouillard to their expedition in 1803. A replica of the 1802 American fort stands today. The park hosts historical programs and the annual Fort Massac Encampment.
The George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail, an 8.7-mile (14.0 km) paved path, is suitable for families and offers scenic views. Within Fort Massac State Park, a 1-mile loop trail provides an accessible option for a shorter outing. The Todd Fink-Heron Pond Trail also offers a unique and engaging experience with its floating boardwalk.
Massac's outdoor routes have received an average rating of 4.72 out of 5 stars from more than 19 ratings. Over 234 visitors have explored the region's offerings. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users.
Komoot offers several guides for Massac, covering various sports. These include Cycling around Massac, Road Cycling Routes around Massac, Hiking around Massac, and Running Trails around Massac.
Official information for Fort Massac State Park is available through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The park's website is dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/Pages/FortMassac.aspx. For general inquiries, the park can be reached at (618) 524-9321.
The George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail is an accessible option for beginners, being a paved, relatively flat path. It offers a straightforward 8.7-mile (14.0 km) ride with scenic views. This trail is suitable for those new to cycling or seeking a relaxed experience.
The Cache River State Natural Area is a significant natural landscape in Massac County, spanning nearly 15,000 acres. It is known for its ancient cypress and tupelo trees, some hundreds of years old, and features diverse ecosystems including bottomland forests and sandstone bluffs. The Todd Fink-Heron Pond Trail is located within this area.

