Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route Overview

Confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers (IL) [1]

The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route provides an expansive view of the floodplain where the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois River join together to flow to the ocean. Rich in historic significance and natural beauty, the junction of these mighty rivers demonstrates both American river culture and American pioneer spirit.

The Piasa Bird Mural [2]

Rivers were the main transportation arteries for both Native Americans and early European settlers, and the historic town of Alton contains a record of both of these groups. Early French explorer Father Jacques Marquette discovered a large pictograph on the bluffs along the Mississippi that represented the Piasa bird, a monster in Native American folklore. Learn the legend of the Piasa bird at the Alton Museum of History and Art, and then follow the Route southward to see a modern artist's rendition of the pictograph on the side of the cliff.

The Wood River Region at the north end of the Route commemorates the beginning of Lewis and Clark's famous expedition to the Pacific. The Camp River Dubois State Historic Site has several exhibits, including a restored campsite of the Corps of Discovery and a cross-section replica of the expedition's keelboat, allowing you to experience the expedition first-hand.

Lincoln Debating Slavery in Alton, Illinois (IL) [3]

Alton played a pivotal part in events leading up to and during the Civil War. Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas held their final debate in the race for U.S. Senate here in Alton, with the entire nation watching as they contended over the issue of slavery. Life-size bronze statues now stand in Lincoln-Douglas Square to commemorate the event. Just outside of Alton lie the remains of a federal prison, as well as a sobering monument marking the mass grave of Confederate prisoners that died there during the Civil War.

Cyclists will find challenge and beautiful scenery along the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail. The trail parallels the Mississippi, running past rocky bluffs and through several historic towns. The town of Elsah is one of the only towns to be put on the National Historic Register in its entirety, as it has remained virtually unchanged since the 19th century.

The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route allows visitors to discover the natural and historical heritage of southern Illinois.