Heading to Arkansas ...

 Tuesday May 20th I depart for Arkansas. I plan on hunting down two lane black top and taking my time working my way towards my next adventure.

Sunday, the 18th, the Kid and Kevin took me up to Grafton, a little town along the river, about 47 miles from home, for the last day of their first bike week. For my Ohio people, it is comparable to Geneva on the Lake. Because it was bike week, there were a few vendors still hanging around. A lot of mom and pop restaurants, wineries and breweries. Tons of bikes.

Riding along the river road, which is a scenic byway, was very cool. From the internet, here is a description of the road and features...

The Great River Road Scenic Byway in Illinois is a 550 mile drive that follows the Mississippi River along the state's western border. It offers scenic views, historic sites, and a

variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and boating. The byway also features the Meeting of the Great Rivers, where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers converge. 

Key Features and Attractions:

• Scenic Views:

  The byway offers stunning views of the Mississippi River, with lots of large barges inching their way along, its bluffs, and surrounding landscape. 
• Historic Sites:

  Along the route, you can explore historic towns, museums, and landmarks, such as the Lewis & Clark State Historic Site and the National Great Rivers Museum. 
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, biking, boating, and fishing along the river and in state parks like Pere Marquette State Park.The bike trail follows along side the highway for  most of what I could see, with large tunnels to go through. 
• Meeting of the Great Rivers:

  Witness the confluence of the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois rivers at the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway. 
• Diverse Communities:

  Experience the unique charm of river towns like Grafton, Elsah, and Alton, with their local shops, restaurants, and unique attractions. 
  

  

Highlights of the Great River Road in Illinois:

• Pere Marquette State Park: Illinois' largest state park, located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois rive This park has camping, hiking trails and beautiful scenery.