We in the tourism industry are well aware of the magnificent scenic beauty that is so abundant in Illinois. Our rivers and the Great River Road are already host to many amazing outdoor adventures. But the first-ever Illinois Great Rivers Ride is sure to be one of the most exciting events so far.

Cyclists from all over the world will converge on our state this fall to follow a path that traverses some of the most breathtaking natural spots and showcases some of the most impressive vistas of Western and Northern Illinois.

The Illinois Great Rivers Ride will begin Sept. 11 and continue for a week, concluding Sept. 18. As many as 300 bicyclists will gather in Rockford for this non-competitive, hard-surface ride following the path of the Rock, Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Stops along the way include Rock Falls, Rock Island, Big River Forest Preserve, Nauvoo, Quincy and Nebo, with the ride concluding at Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton. Each leg of the trip will average 55 miles, so riders will be able to maintain a relatively steady pace and enjoy the sights along the way.

The cost to participate is $300 and riders will be able to camp each night should they wish to do so, a cost included in the registration fee, or they can stay at specially discounted sponsor hotels in each area. Beyond the ride itself, many fun activities are being planned by host communities to make the excursion even more memorable.

Extra activities will run the gamut from live entertainment and night Frisbee to hayrides and night golf. Architectural and winery tours will also be offered, and a Jimmy Buffet-themed party complete with fireworks will greet cyclists at the finish line.

Registration will be open through Aug. 15 and riders can register by calling 1-877-GRR-7007 (ext. 217) or by visiting www.illinoisgreatriversride.com. We’re very excited about this new event, which is sure to have a significant economic impact on the areas of the state it touches. After all, not only will many riders be staying in local accommodations, but many will also bring family and friends.

The ride is a key component to a broader effort to promote our Illinois bike trails that includes media buys, public relations initiatives, Web enhancements, printed rack cards and flyers, and trade show materials. To publicize the ride, we’ve already placed ads in a number of cycling magazines, including Adventure Cyclist, Windy City Sports and Chicago Athlete.

A great deal of the ride will take place along the Great River Road, long one of the state’s key scenic locations. I’m pleased to announce that the Federal Highway Administration had dedicated $271,600 for the design and construction of seven large kiosks that will be located along the byway in Fulton, Albany, Quad Cities, Quincy, Ellis Grove, Cairo and Warsaw. These kiosks are made of steel and aluminum and will provide up-to-date tourism information for the surrounding region.

Thanks to everyone who has had a hand in preparing for our inaugural ride – especially Roger Carmack who continues to work diligently with key Opportunity Returns, IDOT, DNR and IBOT staff to ensure that the Illinois Great Rivers Ride is a great success and the first of many.

Best wishes and I look forward to working with you in the summer months ahead.

Sincerely,