Pedaling Through the Prairie: The Best Backroads to Explore by Bicycle in Illinois

Illinois, a state often overshadowed by its metropolitan giant Chicago, is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Its backroads offer an intimate glimpse into the soul of America’s heartland—where history whispers through cornfields and small towns hum with life. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or adventure, these routes will guide you through landscapes that are as diverse as they are enchanting.

# 1. Great River Road (Route 84)

Stretching along the Mississippi River from East Dubuque to Cairo, this route offers cyclists a scenic journey through quaint river towns and lush forests. Begin your ride in Galena (Galena, IL 61036), where Ulysses S. Grant once called home—a town so picturesque it feels like stepping into a Norman Rockwell painting.

As you pedal southward, you'll pass through Savanna (Savanna, IL 61074), known for its vibrant arts scene and friendly locals who might just invite you for some homemade pie at Poopy's Pub & Grub—a local institution that's more charming than its name suggests.

# 2. Tunnel Hill State Trail

For those craving solitude and natural beauty, the Tunnel Hill State Trail is an absolute must-ride. This former railway line turned bike trail stretches over 45 miles from Harrisburg to Karnak (Harrisburg-Karnak Rd., Vienna Township). The highlight? A mile-long tunnel carved straight through rock—an experience akin to riding into another dimension.

The trail meanders past ghost towns like Parker City and historic sites such as the old stone bridge near Vienna (Vienna Township, IL). It's easy here to lose yourself in thought while surrounded by dense woodlands—the perfect setting for contemplating Carl Sandburg’s poetry about Midwestern life.

# 3. Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

Located just outside Wilmington (30239 S State Route 53), Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie offers cyclists a rare opportunity to explore one of North America's largest restored prairies on two wheels. With over twenty-two miles of trails winding through wildflowers and bison herds grazing peacefully nearby—it’s nature therapy at its finest.

This area holds deep historical significance too; it was once part of Joliet Army Ammunition Plant during WWII before being transformed into protected land dedicated solely towards conservation efforts today—a testament both resilience innovation inherent within Illinoisan spirit itself!

# 4. Shawnee Hills Wine Trail

Combine cycling with wine tasting along Southern Illinois' Shawnee Hills Wine Trail! Start your journey around Cobden (Cobden-Goreville Rd.), where rolling vineyards stretch out beneath blue skies dotted fluffy clouds reminiscent scenes painted Grant Wood himself!

Pedal leisurely between wineries sampling locally-produced wines each stop—you’ll find everything from crisp Chardonnays robust Cabernets—all while soaking up stunning vistas surrounding Shawnee National Forest which inspired countless artists writers alike throughout generations past present day alike...

# Conclusion:

Exploring these lesser-known corners reveals much about what makes Illinois truly unique progressive vibrant energetic cosmopolitan diverse friendly ambitious innovative historical hospitable place call home whether resident visitor passing-through alike... So grab helmet hop onto saddle embark upon unforgettable adventure discovering new aspects personality different ways being midst beautiful exhilarating backdrop only found right here Land Lincoln itself!

**Websites:**

1) [Great River Road](https://www.greatriverroad-illinois.org/)

2) [Tunnel Hill State Trail](https://www.dnr.Illinois.gov/parks/pages/tunnelhill.aspx)

3) [Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie](https://www.fs.usda.gov/midewin)

4) [Shawnee Hills Wine Trail](http://shawneewinetrail.com/)

**Twitter Handles:**

1) @VisitGalena

2) @ExploreSI

3) @USFS_Midewin

4) @ShawneeWine