Friday, September 29, 2017

Pere Marquette Get Together

We had a family get together in Pere Marquette State Park along the Illinois River near Alton Illinois.

On the way there we stopped at the railroad lift bridge in Boonville Missouri to check out the progress in making it a part of the KATY bicycle trail. The approach on the west end is complete and turned out well. Much more work is still required to allow use by bicyclists.











We arrived at the Lodge at Pere Marquette. This is the work of the Civilian Conservation Corp and is a spectacular bit of construction.


The main area of the Lodge is timber construction with sweeping panoramas of roof

Cabins are found around the grounds for those not staying in the Lodge.



We took off on a bike ride along the bike trails along the Illinois river. Lots of history in that area.

My cousin Phillip and Brother in Law John





The Village of Elsa is full of historic homes worth seeing


Julie and sister Carol


A strenuous ride on the roads above the lodge provides views of the river and Indian burial mounds 




Julie enjoying the day

The Lodge has a museum highlighting the wildlife in the area. It includes a simulated  bald eagle nest for the kids to explore

Nearby Alton Illinois has a tribute to Miles Davis. This was his birthplace.

This was a nice place to visit. Lots of things to see and do along the river.









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