Friday, September 16, 2011

Day 9 - Mc Gregor, Iowa to Dubuque, Iowa. (68 miles)

Hilliest day so far! But the beauty of this part of Iowa is stunning and the people are truly wonderful. Stopped at the oldest bar/restaurant in Iowa, which is located in Balltown and has been in the family for six generations. I parked my bike next to a nice Trek touring bicycle, which it turns out belongs to the sixth generation owner, who is a very gregarious guy and an avid cyclist. Also came tantalizingly close to the Field of Dreams in Dyersville, but decided to save that for a future visit with my son. Gee, two days in this state and I have yet to see a presidential candidate!!

Iowa River Bluffs

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Country church in the hills near Lansing, Iowa


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The River and distant bluffs framed by foliage - southwestern Wisconsin

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Day 8 - La Crosse, WI to Mc Gregor, Iowa. (63 miles)

I never knew this part of Iowa was so hilly!?! But it is beautiful and these river towns are authentic jewels. I am staying just down the road from the Ringling Brothers childhood home where they staged their first circus as children. Stopped at the Effigy Mounds National Monument near Marquette , Iowa and took a gorgeous hike. Nice break from cycling. This area is known as a mecca for white tail deer hunters. Fall color tours are also very popular and help fuel the economies of these small, quaint, old river towns. There are a lot of native American historical sites in this area. It is fun to stop and read all of the historical markers. Some friends from Chicago called and are going to meet me in Galena, Illinois on Saturday afternoon and ride a ways with me on Sunday. I better get pedaling!

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