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Visit Iron Furnace Historic Site

Elizabethtown, Illinois

Description

Added by Lucas Bremer

See a part of history dating back to 1837.

Originally built in 1837, this thirty two foot tall structure was constructed on a limestone foundation and erected with limestone blocks quarried locally from the town of Cave-In-Rock. This iron furnace is the last remaining of its kind in Illinois. It is thought that some of the iron produced here was transported to the Union Army during the Civil War.

Today visitors can enjoy a sheltered picnic area along the banks of Big Creek. The water is often deep enough for swimming.

A 1/2 mile trail leading from the back of the picnic area features bottomland habitat and bottomland tree species. The trail winds along Big Creek and offers 2 or 3 deep old-fashioned fishing holes. 

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Features

Chillin
Swimming
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Wildflowers
Swimming Hole
ADA Accessible

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Explore the Arch of the Gods

Hike Rim Rock National Recreation Trail

Garden of the Gods Trail

Hike the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail

Paddle or Swim at Pounds Hollow Recreation Area

Hike to Cave-in-Rock