TRIP 1: NCR Rally Ride: Mississippi Loop Route

[glwilson]

This is the first post of several routes we have planned for our NCR rally in July. We plan on posting several of the other routes for everyone to view so you can get an idea of what is planned.

(See attachment below for this route.)

Distance & Time: This particular ride will be a 4+ hour ride covering over 170+ miles.

Skill Level: Moderate overall... Providing a comfortable ride with the opportunity to look at the Mississippi River bluffs and views.

Road Types: Mostly wide sweeping roads that run along the Mississippi River. Most all of this route is on the Great River Road on both the East and West side of the river and will travel through Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. (I, personally, like the ride along the West side of the Mississippi. It will include the most variation of terrain.)

Twisting and hilly terrain will be found on one detour near the end of the trip that will take us through a small State Forest Park in Iowa. This is one of the "have to ride" roads in the area -- thus it will be included in this route. Skill level required for this road is higher; however we will be taking it at a slower speed so everyone should be more than comfortable riding it.

Highlights: Beside the wide-sweeping roads, river bluffs, and views… this route will travel through several quaint river towns -- each with their own character. We could plan on stopping at a couple of them.

Pikes Peak State Park is an Iowa State Park located on one of the highest bluffs along the river with a spectacular overlook of the mouth of the Wisconsin River joining the Mississippi. (Great view... one of the Midwest's best.)

Overall, for many that travel to this area... this is one of the most ridden routes... thus the inclusion of it in our itinerary.

When clicking on the attachment... you'll likely see another Kawanow screen. Your pop-up blocker will likely not allow you to view the file. Be sure to allow for pop-ups. Next you'll probably see a window asking if you wish to open the file. Open the file (it is safe). If you only see the written directions... you should see an option to "Include Large Map". Click on this to see the map. The map will not show a great deal of details; but you'll get the idea of the overall route.

If anyone has problems with this; please post; as we are having to experiment with attaching these files and are having some difficulty due to the "mechanics" of "Pro-Boards".

If anyone would like to have the attachment sent to them via their email or a PM; just let me know and I'll do so.