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Recreation
Just three miles from the Brussels Ferry is Illinois' largest state park.
Pere
Marquette State Park has more than 8,000 acres for visitors
to enjoy. The park offers horseback riding, camping, biking, fishing,
boating, birdwatching and hiking. There are 10 trails totaling 12 miles
where more than 230 species of birds can be seen. For those who enjoy
fishing, bluegill, catfish, crappie, and bass are popular with park anglers.
Two thousand acres have been set aside for public hunting. Squirrel, deer
and turkey are abundant and available in their respective seasons. Call
the park superintendent at (618) 786-3323 for specific hunting information.
The park was named after Pere Marquette, a French missionary, who was
among the first Europeans to reach the area. There is evidence of life
in the park as far back as 9500 B.C. with Native American burial mounds,
artifacts and dwelling sites. Today the park has historic lodging with
all the modern day amenities. The park lodge was built in the 1930's and
houses a 50 foot high, 700 ton stone fireplace. The lodge offers overnight
accommodations, an indoor pool, lounge, and fine dining for its visitors.
Call (618) 786-2331 for more information.
The Sam
Vadalabene Bike Trail gives its riders some of the most picturesque
scenery available in Illinois, not to mention a smooth ride. With 20 miles
of paved trail, the path starts in Alton, travels along the scenic Mississippi
and Illinois Rivers, and ends up at the Pere Marquette State Park. Call
(800) 258-6645 for a trail map that includes historic information, restaurants
and local attractions.
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