BIKING AND HIKING:

• The Great River Trail recreational path extends 62 miles from the Quad Cities to Savanna, providing fantastic biking, hiking, running and walking opportunities.  The trail starts just behind the Savanna Railroad Car in downtown Savanna and meanders past several wildlife viewing areas and through the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge.  Bikers can stop at the Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center for a restroom break and to view the exhibits.  Rest areas and picnic areas are scattered along the trail.

• The Mississippi Palisades State Park offers several hiking trails through both moderate and difficult with some stopping or starting at scenic overlooks of the river.  Picnic tables and restroom facilities are available.  Located north of Savanna on Hwy. 84.

 

MARINAS AND BOAT LAUNCHES / RENTALS

• Fin & Feather – Thomson – 815-273-3302 – Boat and canoe rental
• Lazy River Marina – Savanna – 815-273-2955 
• Savanna Marina – Savanna – 815-273-2955 – storage and café available
• U.S.A.C.E. Big Slough – Thomson – 815-259-3628
• Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge – Thomson – 815-273-2732

 

OTHER OUTDOOR ADVENTURES:

• Eagle Point Paintball – Milledgeville – The paintball field is on an island off of Elkhorn Creek.  Reservations are necessary please call 815-225-7473

 

• Captain Ron’s Adventures – Savanna – Captain Ron’s Adventures offers backwater airboat tours on the gorgeous Mississippi River, guided rock climbing at the Mississippi Palisades and guided fishing tours.  Combo tours are available please call 630-531-1172 for reservations.

• Rack & Wing – Lanark – Guides provide NW Illinois hunts for whitetail, wild turkey and game birds.  Call for reservations -815-493-6443

 

• Mississippi Palisades State Park Rock Climbing – Savanna – Rock formations for climbing picnic areas and restrooms available.

• McMotopark – Mt. Carroll - 40 acres of fun, challenging track of natural terrain.  Elevation changes, jumps and obstacles for beginner to pro-level riders.  Call for hours 815-238-1614

 

LODGING: - After a busy day on the river or the bike trail, check out these accommodations to relax and re-energize.

• Buck’s Barn Golf Resort – Thomson – 55 room lodge, indoor pool, and hot tub.  Restaurant and lounge on site.
• Executive Inn – Thomson – 40 rooms, microwave, refrigerator, and laundry facilities.  Restaurant and bar on site.
• Trailside Inn – Lake Carroll – 12 rooms, microwave, refrigerator, continental breakfast. General store on site.
• Blackhawk Motel – Savanna – 4 miles north of Mississippi Palisades State park – welcomes hunters, fisherman and all outdoor enthusiasts
• Indianhead Motel – Savanna – next to cliffs of Mississippi Palisades State Park and boat ramp.  Large rooms, grills, picnic areas – welcomes hunters, fisherman and all outdoor enthusiasts.

Please visit the Lodging or Restaurant pages for full listings.