The Great River Road runs through a landscape of forests, bluffs and wetlands. The varied landscape makes for some outstanding hiking opportunities. Hike the high bluffs at Wyalusing State Park in Wisconsin. Trek the woodlands surrounding the source of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca State Park in Minnesota. Explore the 15-mile trail system at Mississippi Palisades State Park in Illinois. Take a walk through the Mines of Spain Recreation Area in Iowa and see river views and limestone bluffs. Reflect on the past as you hike the bluffs at Trail of Tears State Park in Missouri. The hiking trails around Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee are perfect for seeing birds and other wildlife. Explore the excellent hiking trails in Arkansas’s many state parks. Hike the Civil War Trail at Columbus-Belmont State Park in Kentucky. Lace up your hiking boots and go exploring in the Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge in Louisiana. Grab your walking stick and take a stroll through the pine forests of Mississippi.
Related Articles
Flavors of the Great River Road: Kentucky
Kentucky and its neighboring Southern states often get lumped together...
Five Reasons to Travel the Great River Road by Author Dean Klinkenberg
When I moved to La Crosse, Wisconsin in 1982, the...
Spotlight Illinois: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Witness remains of the most sophisticated prehistoric native civilization north...
Top 5 birds to see on the Great River Road
With warm spring temperatures come the flocks of migratory birds,...
Cajun vs. Creole: deliciously distinct
As the Great River Road leads travelers along the path...
Find fresh flavor on the Great River Road
This summer, experience the Great River Road one bite and...
Can’t-miss restaurants along the Great River Road
While journeying down the Great River Road, you’ll pass through...
Five sweet treats you shouldn’t miss on the Great River Road
Save room for dessert—here are some of the most iconic...
Celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Great River Road
We’re celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Great River Road!...
Chasing blossoms on the Great River Road
Spring officially arrives today on the Great River Road and...
Must-see attractions in the Show Me State
The Great River Road in Missouri treats travelers to a...
Flavors of the Great River Road: Arkansas
Arkansas’ Delta Byways region is home to outstanding Southern flavors,...
Exploring Mississippi River Wine Country
The rich soil and rolling hills of the Mississippi River...
Spring is Prime Time for Birdwatching
Spring is here and it’s the perfect time for birdwatching...