Snake Road Facts: 2-Mile Stretch Closed For Reptiles And Amphibians

Snake Road in Southern Illinois is reportedly closing to vehicles so the snakes can cross without getting killed.

For about two months, the amphibians and reptiles in Shawnee National Forest near Wolf Lake are going to migrate from the LaRue Swamp across the Snake Road to the limestone bluffs for the fall and winter periods.

Some of the most common snake species that cross include the copperhead, the Timber Rattler and the cottonmouth.

The forestry service usually closes off a portion of the road each spring when they come out of hibernation and the fall when they go back to make sure they cross safely.

From Sept. 1, the road is going to be closed to vehicular traffic between mileposts 3.0 and 5.8. The road is more than 2 miles long and will stay closed until late October when the first part of the migration is over.

As implied, it's not just snakes that will make the journey across the road. Turtles, newts and salamanders also make use of the migratory route to the limestone bluffs.

The reason for close the road other than the fact these animals do not have other avenues is some are endangered. The Forest Service has taken it upon themselves to ensure their safety. People are allowed to walk the road while it is closed though they are prohibited from handling the species.

The Shawnee National Forest released a statement saying the gradual, two-month migration event attracts people from across the country eager to witness the diversity of the local species along the road.

More than 60 percent of the amphibians and 59 percent of the reptiles in Illinois will pass through the stretch of road during the time of closure.

To reach Snake Road from Jonesboro, tourists need to take Highway 146 for 8 miles to Highway 3 and then North 8 miles to the Muddy Levee Road. The road goes east 3 miles to LaRue Road at the T junction.

The next thing is to turn right to Winters Pond parking lot. People can also get here from the south entrance off from LaRue Road.

To get to Snake Road from Murphysboro, one can take highway 149 west for 7 miles to reach highway 3. From there, they can go south for 14 miles on Highway 3 and stop at Muddy Levee Road. The road goes east 3 miles to LaRue Road at the T junction.

Snake Road is going to be closed again in March when the animals head back to the swamp.