Motorcycle Route Author
By Guest (0 McR Points)
on Jan 31, 2007
Rider Reviews
Written Directions
Start at Utica, IL and head south on Route 178 for just about a mile or so and you will come to the intersection of Route 71. At the intersection turn left (east) and you'll be at the entrance of the park in just a mile. Take your time and check out the park but then get back on 71 heading east and ride along the Illinois river to the town of South Ottawa. The whole ride is only about 13 miles and if I were you I would turn around and do it a couple of times! Enjoy!!Scenery
The area is relatively very hilly for Illinois, with thick woods, and deep ravines at certain points. In the fall it's especially beautiful with the fall color changes.Drive Enjoyment
Nicely paved, some areas are narrow for a two lane road, twisty like the Tennessee hills, declines from west to east.Tourism Opportunities
Starved Rock State Park has a nice lodge, camping, hiking, boat access ... the web site also list the following activities: fishing lodge, hiking, picnicking, camping, history, visitor center, horseback riding, and sports events. Make sure you take the time to read the signs in the park about how the park got its name - fascinating history.Motorcycle Road Additional info
- View the weather forecast for this area from Yahoo weather . - **Top Images
VulcanDan
April 11, 2012
129 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Other
I rode this road last year on my 2009 TW200. I always considered the start of this road where 71 and 34 meet. Not very twisty until you get to the preserve areas, but some slight hills and a lot of farms to look at, which I consider scenery. Gas stations aren't numerous, but don't seem to be more than 20-miles apart. The crashed airplane monument to the farmers is always cool to look at. I stop there anytime I rode or drive to Starved Rock.
Even with just 200cc's, it's a great road to ride. Start early in the morning to get there as it does tend to get a little busy in the afternoon with travelers going in both directions, but even with traffic, it's not bad. There are always plenty of bikes going down the road, so your waving hand has plenty to do.
Can't wait to ride it again soon with 1100cc's.
Even with just 200cc's, it's a great road to ride. Start early in the morning to get there as it does tend to get a little busy in the afternoon with travelers going in both directions, but even with traffic, it's not bad. There are always plenty of bikes going down the road, so your waving hand has plenty to do.
Can't wait to ride it again soon with 1100cc's.
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Walks
January 16, 2012
2 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
I've done this ride countless times and it never disappoints me. In 2011 they wrapped up repaving the roads within the park so they are as good as they'll ever be. The only downside is its way too short!
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Guest
October 31, 2008
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
Try this hyperlink to view the entire route for the Buffalo Rock State Park and Starved Rock State Park roundtrip from Ottawa: ** see hyperlink above in "Additional Information" section.
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