Snake Road (Union County, Illinois)

My next stop along this long drive home to Atlanta from St. Louis takes me to the infamous Snake Road. I don't recall where I first learned of this place, but since it was only a few miles out of my way, I decided to pay it a visit and see if it lived up to it's reputation. This gravel road sits in the flood plane between the Big Muddy River and the continuation of the bluff system that continues north. From my reading, many snake species can be found crossing the road here during April and October as they move between the wetlands of the flood plain and the higher ground of the bluffs. 

The road is closed to cars during these periods of high snake traffic, but a small parking area is offered at the northern end and the signage indicates that foot traffic is welcome. I leave my car and begin my trek, with eyes scanning everywhere for any dangerous species, which will likely include water moccasins and potentially copperheads and timber rattlers. I'm sure there are many more non-venomous species in the area as well, but I'm less concerned with them.

In the distance, I see a couple walking the road ahead of me and take note of where they stop along the way. While I don't see any snakes right away, I am enthralled by the beauty of the area. It's just a nice forested gravel road, which seems to be pretty well maintained. I'm sure it's a popular spot for people to hike given it's reputation. 

As I continue scanning either side of the road, some areas of which are stagnant ponds of river overflow (very "snaky"), I fail to see any of the slithering residents. I eventually catch up to the couple and we chat briefly. Apparently, they had seen a large water moccasin on a log in one of these areas, but after taking a couple of pictures, he swam off into the brackish water. I wish them well and continue south.

I climb over a couple of small inclines, but eventually decide that I need to head back and hike back the way I came, still on alert for any legless visitors. Once I reach my car, I'm thankful to have arrived safe, but somewhat disappointed at the lack of sightings. Perhaps, it was just an off day. Total distance hiked (or rather walked) was only about 2.7 miles.