The portion of Great River Road in Illinois that runs from Pere Marquette State Park at the confluence of the Illinois River and the Mississippi River to the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site at the confluence of the Missouri River and the Mississippi River near Hartford Illinois is designated as a National Scenic Byway and is called the "Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway". Travelers along the route will encounter the historic cities and villages of Grafton, Elsah, Alton, Hartford and others and will enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Mississippi River. The Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail and the Confluence Bike Trail both parallel the route.
Many places along the Great River Road make excellent viewing areas during the winter for eagle watching. Check out these places to do so: Pere Marquette State Park, the Brussels Ferry landing and the Melvin Price Locks and Dam.
Great River Road
"Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway"
Runs Between Hartford IL and Pere Marquette State Park IL
Streetview in Grafton Illinois Link
Historic Alton Illinois Streetview Link
The Brussels Ferry in Grafton Illinois Link
The Lodge at Pere Marquette State Park Link
Biking on the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail Link
Confluence Bike Trail Link
The Village of Elsah Museum and Village Hall, built 1887 Link
The Great River Road between Grafton and Alton Illinois Link
Lewis and Clark Confluence Tower Link
The Visitor's Center at the Lewis and Clark Illinois State Historic Site Link
Piasa Park Link
Hartford Illinois Streetview Link
Camp Dubois-the launching point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition Link