Hike or Climb Devil's Standtable

Devil's Standtable was once a large block of the bluff that cracked loose during earth movements. The wind and rain erosion of the surface removed the softer areas of sandstone in the mid-section of the pillar leaving the large base and iron embedded cap much larger, which creates the mushroom-like appearance. These types of spires are often seen in Utah or Arizona, so to see one in the Midwest is an added treat on a visit to the Shawnee National Forest and Giant City State Park. Iron deposits within the sandstone gives the formation its reddish orange coloring. 

This is the main bouldering and climbing area of the park. Boulder problems have been filed here. Traditional lead climbing and repelling are also very popular in this section and is good for the novice all the way to professional. Climbers need to bring their own equipment and no check in is required. No permanent anchors are allowed. Also the bluff communities are fragile so please use care and be wary of snakes on sunny ledges.