America's Byways and National Wildlife Refuges
Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route (Illinois)

The Meeting of the Great Rivers has long been an important location for travelers past and present. Today, visit the byway to gain an appreciation for the Big Muddy and Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuges. Immerse yourself in some of the best catfishing in the country, and learn about Lewis and Clark's expedition passage through the region at the Big Muddy National Wildlife Refuge, located approximately 6 miles south of the byway across the Mississippi River. Get a close-up view of Big Muddy's diverse wildlife such asbeavers, river otters, wild turkeys, bobcats, and white-tailed deer. Visit Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge, located 2 miles from the byway across the Illinois River. Experience an abundance of unique plants and animals, as well as the impressive migration of raptors, and the decurrent false aster, an endangered plant.

Learn more about Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Route