Waterways To The West: Chicago to Starved Rock Bike Tour in August with Out Our Front Door out of Chicago, IL

EVENT DETAILS

Pace: 12-18mph. Advanced level.

Trail/Route: Mixed terrain w/paved road, smooth limestone, and gravel.

Lodging: Tent (camping gear not provided). The group will stay at Starved Rock State Park Campground (IL DNR) located in the State Park at Utica Township, IL 61372 (map).

Itinerary:

Day 1: 110miles | Day 2: Varies | Day 3: 110 miles

Support: Semi supported – you carry the majority of your own camping gear, etc. on your own bike. OPTIONAL: (organizers will allow 1 school-size backpack to be carried in the support vehicle to lighten your load.)

Meals: Some meals are included.

Day 1: Lunch stop at Mexican Sunshine Cafe in Joliet, Dinner is provided by guides at the campground upon arrival.

Day 2: Meals will be at the discretion of participant. The Starved Rock Lodge provides two food options to choose from throughout the day. Dinner will be cooked by guides;

Day 3: Group to pick from local Joliet restaurants.

TRIP DESCRIPTION

One of the most beloved jewels near Chicagoland is Starved Rock State Park. It is one of Illinois’ ​most beautiful destinations. The park’s 18 canyons feature vertical walls of moss-covered stone and multiple waterfalls. Formed by glacial melt water that slices dramatically through tree-covered sandstone bluffs, the Illinois River bluffs in Utica, Illinois will surely percolate anyone’s curiosity.

The group will learn about the world’s first major natural waterway reversal in human history as we traverse along the Chicago River, from the heart of Chicago to the Illinois and Michigan Canal. Cold air starts to sweep across the land when we go back in time to relive a catastrophic flood that occurred between 14,000 and 18,000 years ago in the Midwestern United States and reshaped the land. On the off day from biking, organizers will host a guided hike through the park

This is not your average group bike ride. At each break point and along the way, Out Our Front Door guides will immerse and educate in the history, geography, architecture and the uniquely beautiful natural habitats and ecosystems of North Eastern Illinois. Out Our Front Door groups are small and personable to ensure the knowledge of the land is passed on to riders.

Transfers: Out Our Front Door has limitations for ticket transfers, but may accommodate in the event certain criteria are met. You may review this updated Transfer Policy flowsheet to determine what next steps you need to take.

WHAT TO BRING

Required Items:

• Your bike!
• Helmet – encouraged but not required
• Tent & Camping Gear
• Head Lamp
• Cash/Debit/Credit Card for your food and your drinks
• Photo I.D. and Emergency Contact Info
• Two spare inner tubes and tools to replace a flat (guides will be able to assist)
• At least 2 water bottles
• Bike lights, front and rear
• Lock for your bike
• High energy snacks
• Change of clothes, including swimsuit and/or rain gear!
• Phone battery pack
• Camp mug, plate/bowl, eating utensils
• Welcoming, adventurous, can-do attitude

WHAT IS INCLUDED

• Campground fees (sites, firewood, etc.)
• Food for Day 2 dinner and Day 3 breakfast
• Emergency vehicle support
• Education about our local history and nature
• Really nice and supportive guides

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

• Food for Day 1 lunch and dinner, Day 2 breakfast and lunch, and day 3 lunch (we will stop at designated restaurants for food, but the guides will not pay for these meals).
• Snacks