CHICAGO - This September hundreds of riders will have the opportunity to experience Illinois' natural beauty and magnificent destinations as they wind their way along three of the state's great rivers during the first annual Illinois Great Rivers Ride, sponsored by Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich's Opportunity Returns Economic Development program, the Illinois Department of Transportation and the Illinois Bureau of Tourism.

The seven-day noncompetitive, 385-mile bike ride begins Sept. 11 in the northern region of the state in Rockford and concludes on Sept. 18 in the southwestern region of the state at Pere Marquette State Park making stops each day for various activities, performances and more. Each night riders have the option to sleep beneath the stars in tents at state parks and campgrounds or in designated hotels or motels.

"The Illinois Great Rivers Ride will heighten interest and appreciation for the unique destinations along the Rock, Mississippi and Illinois rivers by creating a new experience for travelers to explore many of Illinois' treasures," said Gov. Blagojevich.

A few highlights of the ride include:
* Disc golf and camping along the Rock River in Rock Falls
* A visit to the Rock Island Downtown Arts & Entertainment District for dinner and entertainment
* Bluegrass music under the stars at the Big River Forest Preserve in Henderson County
* Other activities include camping at Nauvoo State Park; night golf; a historic tour by horse-drawn wagon; a tour of the state's oldest vineyard, Baxter's Vineyards; an architectural tour and evening entertainment at the Back Water Night Club in Quincy; a celebration at the Heartland Lodge in Pleasant Hill; and hayrides, bonfires and more.

The final day takes riders on a ferry ride across the Illinois River and then onto Pere Marquette State Park in Grafton for a Jimmy Buffet-themed party and fireworks.

The cost for the seven-day ride is $300 and is limited to the first 300 cyclists who sign up before Monday, August 15 at 9:00 a.m. (CST). Children under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. An opportunity for adults and children to ride for a shorter number of days is also available.

Registration includes camping, breakfasts, dinners, evening festivities, snacks and beverages. Use of a support and gear truck, as well as transportation from Pere Marquette State Park back to the various starting points, is also included in the registration fee. Lunches will be available for purchase, as well as additional snacks and beverages. Hotel accommodations will be available each night for interested participants at an additional cost.

For more information or to register, visit www.illinoisgreatriversride.com or call 877-477-7007 x217.