Small Historic Town’s Fascinating Treasure | Alto Pass Illinois History and Geology

Small Historic Town’s Fascinating Treasure | Alto Pass Illinois History and Geology

Located in the Shawnee Hills of Illinois near the foothills of the Ozarks is a former railroad town called Alto Pass. This scenic town boasts one of the best views in Illinois at a scenic viewpoint that looks out over Bald Knob Mountain in the Shawnee National Forest.

The 111-foot Bald Knob Cross is the main attraction in Alto, along with the very first Southern Illinois Vineyard. Rendleman Orchards an historic farm is, also, nearby these former 1870’s railroad tracks.

The railroad is now a hiking path, this is popular with climbers and nature lovers.

8 Comments

  1. Russ Harrison on February 10, 2023 at 9:58 am

    History of Bush il

  2. Scott Ellner on February 10, 2023 at 10:01 am

    I just yesterday discovered your videos of Southern Illinois (I’m just starting to watch them) and… I love them! I lived with my parents in Carbondale for 6 years in the mid to late 70s. And even after I moved to California, I continued to return to So. Illinois most every year to visit with my parents. Over the years, I’ve been to Alto Pass and the Cliff View several times. But until I watched your video, I knew nothing about the Quetil Trail. Now, when I go back there for a vacation in early May, I want to check that trail out. Something else I never knew about before were tree imprints in rocks. And thank you for warning me about the snakes so I can avoid their hiding places. -Scott

  3. Hapsmig on February 10, 2023 at 10:05 am

    I used to live there on and off with my mom and grandparents. It was also on Milligan Hill Rd as another commenter stated. I went one full year at the Cobden HS. So, many great memories.

  4. David Hug on February 10, 2023 at 10:10 am

    Nice video man!

  5. Joseph Baltzell on February 10, 2023 at 10:14 am

    Loved the video. Alto Pass holds a place in my heart. My dad’s side of the family is from there. They lived off of Milligan Hill Rd. I plan on buying some land up there and building a cabin when I retire.

  6. Bleu Jean on February 10, 2023 at 10:24 am

    Love this!

  7. Janette Marks on February 10, 2023 at 10:32 am

    Beautiful area . Thanks for filming it

  8. My Corner Online on February 10, 2023 at 10:38 am

    I’ve been there on the wine trail many times and never knew this trail was there. That’s cool.

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