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View Full Version : Lower IL River roads


sstodvictory
11-05-2006, 09:30 PM
Over the years I've ridden the area South of Pittsfield between the Mississippi and IL Rivers many times, but, I've usually stuck to one route that always entertains me. I've have just returned from my 3rd trip of the season to explore some other roads in the area. What an education!

As much as I like NW Illinois, I've concluded that this area has it beat for non-stop curves. I've now memorized two great routes from Springfield West to the IL River. South of Hwy 106 through the East IL River bluffs, some of the roads are gravel but there are good aspault routes as well, down to Grafton. Between the IL and Mississippi Rivers from Grafton to Pittsfield, there's so much curvy asphault it'll have you grinning ear to ear.

http://maps.google.com/maps?oi=map&q=kampsville,+IL

Take a look at this map that's centered on Kampsville. Pan upwards along Hwy 100 to Cliffdale and East Panther Creek Road. Now examine the uncolored roads between the IL and Mississippi Rivers down to where they meet. This area is totally carved up with valleys and ridges. The colored roads are great too, but most of those little ones are paved.

I'm pumped to stage some rides out of Springfield next season. Stay tuned.

Steve

BigJim
11-06-2006, 09:19 AM
I think once the dates for the VMC national meet and VMC Great Lakes Regional meet are set we should attempt to plan an IVR meet. Make it a weekend gathering in this area. It would be close enough for everyone to get to after work on Friday and we could get in a ride Sunday morning before leaving for home. I purpose we talk about this at the next IVR meeting.