Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail

The 80-mile journey along the Illinois River is like a trip back in time. Native tribes once used these waters for fishing and hunting, while early pioneers and settlers used the connection to navigate between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River. Nowadays, you can cycle along this same 80-mile route to see a diverse mix of historical sites and awe-inspiring natural wonders. There is a lot to see here, so it is best to plan out a route ahead of time. A couple of must-see spots include the replica canal boat in LaSalle, the bustling Ottawa Riverwalk, and the 473-acre McKinley Woods Forest Preserve in Channahon.