This award recognizes innovative and successful trail sharing efforts, programs, and systems.
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, part of the historic Route 66 Scenic Byway System, was restored in 1999 by Trailnet and the City of Madison, Illinois, as a bicycle/pedestrian bridge.
The bridge is a key link connecting trails in Missouri and Illinois and is a shared venue for many outdoor recreational activities, including: the Lewis and Clark Bicycle Ride, the Bridge Birthday Bash, Tuesday Night Trail Rides, Route 66 Motor Tours, the Companion Mississippi Mile, and kite flying.
Eagle Days is a bi-state youth and community educational program held annually on the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. Each winter, the Mississippi River is host to one of the continent's largest concentrations of America's national symbol, the bald eagle. The bridge deck is handicap accessible, making a safe, readily available trail and eagle-viewing platform for all ages.
Eagle Days is a unique program that encourages visitors to get out on the trail during a time when they are likely to experience cabin fever. Viewing scopes staffed by trained volunteers are set up in the middle of the bridge.
This and the numerous other activities held there makes the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge a destination shared by many.
2015: Northumberland County Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area
2013: Colorado Responsible Recreation Foundation’s “Stay The Trail” Campaign
2010: Ride With Respect
2008: Bill Manning
2006: Ann Hill, BLM Training Center, Phoenix
2004: Jefferson County Open Space, Colorado
591 views • posted 12/25/2017
