Cyclists Gear UpCompletion of Illinois' Great River TrailThere's no better way to see the mighty Mississippi river and the beautiful landscape and unique towns that wrap themselves around it, then from the seat of a bicycle. Now, close to completion, the Great River Trail in Illinois offers just that opportunity for bicycle enthusiasts. Cyclists nationally and internationally are gearing up for the 62 ½ mile stretch of hard surface bike trails that will run from Quad Cities, Illinois to Savanna, Illinois. Currently, 34 miles of trail is already completed from the Quad Cities to Cordova, Illinois. The whole trail system measures 10 feet in width to allow bikers and walkers plenty of passing room. Planners believe that most of the remaining trails will be connected by the end of the year, with final touches being completed by Fall of 2000. The Great River Trail takes cyclists through 3 counties and 11 municipalities. The trails wind through some unique urban settings, but 75% of the trails are in rural settings that take the cyclist along the picturesque riverfront. The trail also features 65 public areas that include visitor centers, parks, camping, attractions, antique stores, restaurants and B&Bs. The Great River Trail is a cyclist's dream. One rider said it reminded him of a bike tour he took a few years ago in Holland. "I was cocooned in a green tunnel - a gothic cathedral overhead of high trees and flourishing bushes. My memory took me back to a bike touring vacation in Holland." A ride along the Great River Trail will take cyclists through many environments that are sure to create excitement, wonder and interest. From panoramic river views and wooded trails, to prairie areas, backwaters and marsh areas. The rider will also enjoy the unique towns and cities that call the banks of the river their home. Cyclists begin their tour in the Quad Cities at Sunset Marina in west Rock Island. The ride through the Quad Cities will provide a great view of the river, nature, parks, historical sites and industry. The trails in the Quad Cities take riders to the historical Arsenal Island railroad bridge and then on to the famous John Deere Commons - site of John Deere's first factory. The trail continues through Moline along River Drive and onward to Ben Butterworth Parkway. You're right on the river from here on out as you head on to Fulton, Illinois. The Quad Cities also features numerous kiosks along the trail that provide educational and historical information on important sites and events along the mighty river. The kiosks are part of a riverfront rejuvenation project headed by the areas' RiverWay Committee. The Great River Trail provides a one-of-a-kind journey for bicyclists of every age. It's a great experience for families and for the professional or recreational cyclist. Cyclists will enjoy the quiet runs through wooded and wetland areas, and the sights and sounds of the urban side of the trails. For more information on the Great River Trail, contact the Bi-State Regional Commission in the Quad Cities at 309-793-6300. Edited by Dave Shultz -Updated 6-23-99- |
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