Mile 176.8 - LBD Cahokia Church of the Holy Family

176.8 LBD Cahokia Church of the Holy Family

(Access from sandbar at LBD 176.8) Paddlers wanting to stretch their legs might enjoy a 2-mile round trip walk into Cahokia to visit the Holy Family Catholic Church, the oldest church between the Alleghenies and the Rocky Mountains. The route is not marked, but will be fairly obvious. Bushwhack through the shrubs above sandbar (watch out for poison ivy!) to Cargill Elevator Road. Follow road SE to Cahokia. Cross Hwy 3 to get to church. Constructed of black walnut timbers in the traditional French Colonial style, the Log Church is only one of five built in this style that still exists in North America. Holy Family Catholic Church, 116 Church Street, Cahokia, IL 62206-1852, Phone: (618) 337-4548.

On the way back, pick up some hot food to go from the Brandy Inn, W 1st Street and Hwy 3 in Cahokia (618) 337-1101. Brandy Inn has pizza, burgers, chili, and cold beer. River rat heaven.