Explore the Rock River Trail a bit at a time!

You don’t have to explore the entire 320 miles of the Rock River Trail to earn a 320-Mile Award. You can break up your trip in as many sections as you like.

The Rock River offers a widely changing landscape through it’s 320 miles. Kickstands up, or tops down, pick your wheels of choice and head out to explore the 11 counties and 37 charming river communities along the way! Each region has it’s own character, history and special features for you to discover. Do it all at once, or pick sections to do over a period of time, it’s all up to you!

Last year Marc VanderPal from Beloit, WI decided to hit the road in “Angel”, his 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600 Classic motorcycle to explore the Rock River Trail Scenic & Historic Route. He made the ride in 2 days, but 9 months apart. On both days he started at in South Beloit, IL at the Rock River Trail Visitor Center at Nature At The Confluence, which is located at the half-way point on the trail. On August 1, 2019 he headed north to Waupun and on May 1, 2020, he rode south to Sunset Park in Rock Island.

Mark captured the entire 320-mile ride on his helmet camera and made two Youtube videos. For his efforts, we’ve awarded Mark with the 320-Mile patch. Congratulations Marc and thanks for sharing your journey with us!