Biking Illinois :: Ambling Among the Amish

Ride 44: Ambling Among the Amish

Biking Illinois: 60 Great Road Trips and Trail Rides

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Arcola, IL July 11, 2005

Illinois' Amish Country is a great place to ride. I scouted routes here in December 2004. It was cold then, but at least the sun was shining. It was overcast but not quite dreary the day I finally covered the route on my bike. The folks at the Arcola Visitor's Center (housed in the depot below) are very helpful. They know western Douglas County is great for biking, and they would like to promote cycling in the area.

Johnny Gruelle is a favorite son of Arcola.

I got the impression that the Hippie Memorial was less adored. There was a flatbed trailer parked in front of it when I rode.

The dedication speech gives a little insight about this objet d'art but doesn't quite explain it.

This old bridge crosses the Kaskaskia River north of Chesterville.

The Kaskaskia River is not far from its source here.

This is probably the narrowest road in Biking Illinois. You'd best pull over to the grass if a car is coming.

There's an Amish clothesline on the left, while a common obstacle lies on the road ahead.

This sign in downtown Arthur is misleading. I confirmed at the Arthur Welcome Center that it applies to the sidewalk, not the road. Ride on!

And of course, it wouldn't be a ride through Amish country without some buggies!

Here is another view of the Kaskaskia River, just a bit south of the previous photo.