The next morning, we rose at 7:30 AM, tore down camp, and hiked from climber camp down the trail to Jackson Falls, Illinois. We reached the edge of a horseshoe shaped canyon lined with cliffs. Climbers have rigged a hand line down a steep slope I'd normally rappell. Kyle Lapczynski went down first and I cautiously followed. At the bottom, we saw Jackson Falls, a 20' Illinois waterfall above a wide pool. Then we walked around enjoying the huge sandstone boulders and cliffs that looked excellent for climbing. After a short loop tour of the excellent climbing area Kyle first ascended the hand line followed by me. I found going up much easier than descending. After that we walked back to the cars and drove to Dryers Bluff. To Drapers Bluff
Jackson Falls
Our campsite.
Our campsite.
Jackson Falls
Looking up into the sky from our campsite.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
Looking up into the sky from our campsite.
Looking up into the sky from our campsite.
Jackson Falls
Looking down from the top of Jackson Falls.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
Kyle descends into the horseshoe canyon.
Kyle descends into the horseshoe canyon.
Jackson Falls
Kyle descends into the horseshoe canyon.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
Kyle descends into the horseshoe canyon.
Brian descends. Taken by Kyle Lapczynski.
Jackson Falls
Kyle photographs Erin atop Jackson Falls.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
Pretty sandstone boulders dot the landscape.
This huge boulder looked excellent to climb.
Jackson Falls
Kyle walks around the canyon.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
A pool of water below Jackson Falls.
Kyle prepares for his ascent.
Jackson Falls
Kyle prepares for his ascent.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
Kyle begins his hand over hand ascent.
Kyle muscles himself back to the top.
Jackson Falls
Kyle muscles himself back to the top.
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Viewed:
Jackson Falls
Kyle muscles himself back to the top.
Jackson Falls
Brian quickly climbs to the top. Taken by Kyle Lapczynski.