Makanda, IL

united states

Makanda is a small southern Illinois town of 600 people, located 15 miles southeast of Carbondale on Highway 51. Visitors typically arrive via I-57 to Highway 13 west, then Highway 51 south, with the drive from St. Louis taking about two hours. The town serves as a gateway to Giant City State Park and Shawnee National Forest. The Makanda Boardwalk offers a unique treetop shopping experience on elevated wooden walkways through the forest canopy.