Fountain Bluff
Cliff Prominent limestone bluffs and scenic overlook in Illinois
Dolomite ridge and nature area along the Mississippi River in southern Illinois, known for hiking trails and exposed sandstone bluffs.
How to Get to Fountain Bluff #
Fountain Bluff is accessed from rural roads in Jackson County, Illinois; the nearest small towns provide the last services and a short drive puts hikers at informal trailheads. Because parking and facilities are minimal, visitors should bring provisions and a printed or downloaded trail map.
Tips for Visiting Fountain Bluff #
- Explore early in the day to avoid biting insects, especially in summer.
- The bluff is known for sandstone ledges and informal climbing routes - don't attempt technical climbs without gear and local knowledge.
- Bring a topo map or GPS: trails can be faint and intersect old logging roads.
Best Time to Visit Fountain Bluff #
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions; summers can be hot and insect-laden while winters bring ice and difficult footing.
Weather & Climate near Fountain Bluff #
Fountain Bluff's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -5°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1158 mm/year), wettest in May.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -5°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (118 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (120 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 32°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm).
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August
August is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 18°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 14°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (107 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm).