Regional Summer Rides I Will Be Doing

[glwilson]

I haven't figured out dates for these trips yet; but wanted to start posting some of rides I plan on taking this season. I have been in all of these areas multiple times - thus know the areas well.

Galena, IL Area Ride: This is more of a day-ride within the Galena area; and then around the area. Those that would wish to spend a night could do so. There is not a starting point for this ride. It is rather a destination point ride. For those coming from the East of Galena; we can determine a starting-point from which to meet and ride to Galena together (I live East of Galena by 85 miles) Others that may join in can decide among themselves on their starting-point. This area is absolutely beautiful with large hills, valleys, and vista-views. If you haven't ever been to this area -- it is a must see on a motorcyle. If you have been here before... then I don't need to say any more.

Galena, IL to La Crosse, WI: One of the longer (2-day overnight) regional trips I will be doing. The starting-point will be in Galena, IL. Likely I will be doing this one twice with a bit of variation between the two trips. One will hug the Mississippi River heading north. The other will go more inland into the hills of Southwestern Wisconsin heading north. We will be staying in La Crosse overnight. In the early morning, we will cross over the Ole' Miss into Minnesota and then travel south down on through Iowa along the river as much as possible. We cross back over the river at DuBuque, Iowa and on into Galena to end this trip. This trip will take you through some of the most beautiful hills, scenery, and bluffs in the Midwest; and plenty of small quaint river towns. Most all of the roads are some of the best you'll ever ride on.

Spring Green / Devil's Lake, Wisconsin Ride: This ride starts in the general Rockford, IL area (yet to be determined and would be based on those that participate -- or don't) This would be a very long day ride. This ride takes you to the area of one of the homes of the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright's -- Taliesin East. This area is part of the unglaciated area of Wisconsin; which is known for its beautiful hills and valleys. We will continue the ride from there on the North side of the Wisconsin River heading East -- then return back South toward our starting point. (For those willing and not too tired yet; we can travel on up and around Devil's Lake from that point which is an extremely uniuque lake formed by glacier activity with high rock cliffs -- absolutely beautiful.) The area and the roads make for fantastic riding and scenery; to include several crystal-clear spring-fed creeks with trout. You shouldn't be surprised if we see one or two sports-car clubs taking to the twisty-roads of this area.

Now; these are only three of the regional-rides I will be taking yet this season. Any one that would like to join-in is more than welcome. I realize most of you are from distances relatively far from these locations; but don't let that stop you if you have the time to make one or more of these rides.

If you are from the "flat-lands" of Illinois; Wisconsin; Iowa; or elsewhere -- then these rides are a must see for you.
I will be posting some dates soon if anyone wants to join-in. I will have printable maps made-up that I can email to anyone interested.

For those that would like to make the trips yourself -- let me know and I can send you my maps and possibly give you some suggestions for your trip.

Until then... think 70+ degrees!!