Other things

Cycling from Chicago to Iowa City (summer 2025).

Part 1: First what – Then how.

Part 2: Proof of concept to Morris IL and beyond on the Michigan & Illinois Canal trail and a few wildlife encounters.

Part 3: In western IL, we encounter some surprisingly steep terrain and explore the Hennepin Canal, a massive commercial infrastructure project that was never used for commerce. I learn that when I climb onto my bike, I leave one world and enter another.

Part 4: We overcome minor mechanical problems and a roadblock, reach the mighty Mississippi River and see Iowa at last.

Part 5: The Iowa leg is not the longest but quite possibly the toughest leg. We traverse the “Iowa highlands,” explore Wildcat Den State Park, push our way through a lot of gravel and gravel, and celebrate on the farm.