Written Directions
Starts at Crab Orchard Lake Spillway Road, South to Little Grassy road. West on Little Grassy Road to Giant City Road. South on Giant City Park road and through the park to Makanda. West out of Makanda on Makanda road to Old US route 51. South on Old US route 51 to Skyline drive. Follow Skyline drive to IL-127. South on IL-127 to IL-146. East on IL-146 to Vienna and turn north on US-45. North on US-45 to IL-166. Follow IL-166 to Creal Springs. Just passed Creal Springs turn left on Lake of Egypt Road. Follow Lake of Egypt Road to IL-37. Turn north on IL-37 and proceed to Marion. Ends at Marion IL
Scenery
I ride this route because the roads are smooth, curvy, hilly and very little traffic. From the start to Alto pass you'll be able to visit multiple wineries. Giant City park on the first section has dozens of walking trails. After the park in Makanda is a few places to shop for antiques and whatnot. When you reach Skyline Drive be sure to stop at the roadside lookout right before Alto Pass and you'll get a good view of Bald Knob Cross of Peace. The next section is just long stretches of hills and forests. After turning north at Vienna be sure to watch out for Tunnel Hill. It's worth the short walk to the tunnel. After that it's a leisurely twisty ride to Marion IL.
Drive Enjoyment
Twisty Roads throughout the whole trip. Every road as of October 2021 are in excellent shape. Also expect lots of hills
Tourism Opportunities
Tons of walking trails at Giant City Park and Tunnel Hill
Multiple wineries and shopping between Giant City and Alto Pass.
