Waterways to the West 2025- Adult Overnight

Mileage: 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: (We will allow 1 school-size backpack to be carried in our support vehicle to lighten your load.)

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

Pace: 12-15mph

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

Age: Adult Ride (21+)

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.

We 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 our off day from biking, we’ll host a guided hike through the park

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

Read more about the 2023 adventure in this blog post.

• Campground fees (hated cabins, firewood, etc.)
• Food for Day 1 dinner and Day 2 breakfast.
• Education about our local history and nature
• Really nice and supportive guides

• Food for Day 1 lunch
• Food for Day 2 lunch
• Snacks
• *We will stop at designated restaurants where you can buy your lunch

Our guides are part of a community of volunteers that believe in adventure and helping others find adventure right out our front door. They exude a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive spirit which are foundational values at OOFD. They have love and appreciation for their home and like sharing knowledge about that home with others, thus helping the riders to develop a stronger sense of gratitude for our local history and nature.

The guides will be set with the route and an extensive script about the area you’ll be riding through with intentionally chosen breakpoints along the way.

They are more than someone to follow on the ride. They are trained and will be there to encourage and support you as well as support with mechanicals that may arise.

Participant Cancellation: No Refunds. By registering, you acknowledge and agree there will not be a refund if you cancel or do not show up for the event. Tickets cannot be resold.

Transfers permitted before the event and to an event in the same calendar year. Check out this Transfer Policy flowsheet to determine what next steps you need to take. Contact us if you have any issues.

Organizer Cancellation: Full Refund | Nobody wants an event to be canceled. In the rare circumstance the organizer cancels the event at their discretion, registered participants will receive a full refund.To date, this organization has canceled minimal events; primarily in response to the Covid19 pandemic.

Weather and Rain: We do not cancel an event for rain, storm, or any other weather. We ride rain or shine. Chicago weather is typically passing, if the weather requires, we will pause the ride and wait in a sheltered space then continue biking. Some of the best views of the lake and greenery on the trails are after a rainstorm.

This is included in your registration form. Showing up with a welcoming and inclusive spirit is crucial and expected of everyon that rides with us.

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Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Chicago.