Bicyclists from across the region are invited to take in some of Vermilion County’s most scenic landscapes during the 2025 River to Rail Ride on Sept. 13, starting at Kennekuk County Park’s White Oak Barn.

Hosted by the Vermilion County Conservation District, the annual event offers a variety of well-marked, low-traffic routes that wind through the Middle Fork River Valley. Three of the four routes include a stretch of the Vermilion County section of the Kickapoo Rail Trail, featuring the trail’s signature ¼-mile Trestle Bridge — an awe-inspiring ride 90 feet above the Middle Fork River.

For those looking for a more relaxed pace, a fourth route stays entirely within Kennekuk County Park, making it a great choice for beginner cyclists and families with young children.

This year’s distances include a 63-mile route, a new 50-mile route, a 30-mile route, and a 7.5-mile family-friendly route. Registration fees, which have remained unchanged since 2022, include SAG (Support and Gear) stops, route support, lunch, and a commemorative t-shirt for participants who register by Aug. 28. Registrations after that date will not include a shirt.

Event proceeds will support the continued development of the Kickapoo Rail Trail. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For full details, including route maps and registration, visit RtoR2025.eventbrite.com. For questions, contact Lara Danzl at ldanzl@vccd.org or 217-442-1691.