TRIP 3: PDC to Galena, IL Loop

[glwilson]

TRIP 3

This ride starts in PDC; crosses the bridge to Macgregor, IA; then heads south along the Mississippi River headed toward Dubuque, IA; and then eventually to the famous town of Galena, IL. It circles back north through Dubuque, IA then back across the Mississippi River to ride along the Southwestern shoreline of Wisconsin.

Distance: Approximately 170.8 miles

Time: Around 5 hours+ (not including time for stops; of which will occur)

Skill level: Moderate level.

Road Type: The Great River Road Iowa-side: Sweeping river roads heading south along the Mississippi (as much as possible) to Dubuque, IA. Some “city” traffic in and around Dubuque is fair to moderate -- should only provide minor problems in keeping a large group together. In Galena, IL; the town is very small and the streets are congested with tourist traffic -- both auto; motorcycle; and pedestrian. Will likely provide difficulty in keeping the group together while in Galena, IL. Heading back north; once we cross back into Wisconsin; the roads are all moderate with only a few tight turns.

Highlights: Wide sweeping roads along the Eastern Iowa side of the Mississippi River. A variety of elevation changes and great river bluffs. Galena, IL is always a highlight anytime one goes there. It is one of the oldest cities in Illinois. It is an old mining town, built on the side of the hills surrounding the small Galena River. Galena is a “postcard“ town “locked-in-time“ from the late 1800‘s and was once the home of Ulysses S. Grant -- whose home is still there in pristine-condition.

This ride sweeps in and away from the Mississippi River shoreline as it travels mostly though the “country-side” without going through towns of any size until Dubuque, IA.

The northern route will be on a variety of roads (to include a brief period on an interstate road). This route will ride along the Mississippi for brief periods; and also will take us through a short section or two of "twisty-roads" in the countryside.

The famous town of Potosi Wisconsin can be made a stop on this route if the group wants. If the timing works out; they have a museum on Potosi Beer... with a restaurant and lounge.

Overall… this is a great and relaxing ride to me.

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