The I&M Canal State Trail is the easiest way to see Starved Rock Country on two wheels. It is flat, car-free and runs right past Ottawa's historic canal sites. With an eBike, you can cover a lot of ground without feeling wiped out. This guide covers distances, towns, surface and where to stop along the way.
About the trail
The Illinois and Michigan Canal opened in 1848 and was dug by hand. Mules walked the towpath, pulling barges along the canal. Today much of the original canal and path is a 63-mile linear park between Lockport and LaSalle, owned and maintained by the Illinois DNR.
- Surface: crushed limestone.
- Terrain: relatively flat and uncrowded.
- Access in Ottawa: directly from Heritage Harbor Ottawa, where our eBike rentals begin and end.
Crushed limestone is firmer than dirt but softer than pavement. Bring a bike with tires you trust and ride a little slower than you would on asphalt, especially after rain.
Mileage from Heritage Harbor
All distances below are measured from Heritage Harbor Ottawa. Double them for a round trip.
Heading east
- 4.0 miles: downtown Marseilles, a river town with several casual restaurants.
- 4.6 miles: Illini State Park, along the Illinois River. Cross the river on the pedestrian and bike section of the Route 178 bridge.
Heading west toward downtown Ottawa
- 1.5 miles: Quest Watersports. The trail runs directly past our facility.
- 2.3 miles: the historic Fox River aqueduct. Trail users cross on a wooden footbridge built over the original steel structure.
- 2.4 miles: the northeast end of the Ottawa River Walk, a paved trail along the Fox River.
- 2.8 to 3.3 miles: the re-watered section of the canal, a half-mile stretch refilled by the City of Ottawa.
- 3.0 miles: the historic canal tollhouse, believed to be built in 1849, and a replica barge.
- 3.25 miles: downtown Ottawa, with restaurants, shops, Washington Park and the Ottawa Visitors Center.
Farther west toward Utica
- 4.75 and 6.25 miles: historic canal locks #11 and #12.
- 7.3 miles: Buffalo Rock State Park, with a bluff overlook of the Illinois River and a small herd of buffalo.
- 12.4 miles: downtown Utica, a small canal town just north of Starved Rock State Park with restaurants, shops, wine tasting rooms and beer gardens.
Suggested rides
Short: downtown Ottawa and back (about 6.5 miles)
Ride west to downtown Ottawa, stroll the River Walk, grab a snack and return. This is ideal for a first eBike ride or a late afternoon outing.
Medium: Buffalo Rock State Park (about 14.6 miles round trip)
Continue past the canal locks to Buffalo Rock for the river overlook, then turn back. Plan a longer stop to walk the park.
Long: Utica and back (about 25 miles round trip)
This is a full-day adventure. Eat lunch in Utica, explore Mill Street, then ride back. Our rental eBikes are rated for up to 40 miles per charge, but real range depends on gears, throttle use, rider weight and wind. Keep an eye on the display.
Getting into downtown Ottawa safely
Route 23-71 (Columbus and LaSalle Streets) is off-limits to bikes because of heavy traffic. Instead, take the River Walk. Just west of the aqueduct, turn south onto the concrete ramp and descend toward the stone building with public restrooms, then cross the street at the walkway to pick up the trail. Watch for pedestrians.
Alternatively, ride south from the trail on Paul Street, then west on Lafayette or Jackson Street. See our Illinois eBike laws guide for the rules on city streets.
Charging and refreshment stops
Most riders do not need a charge on a short day. For longer trips, the Quest eBike Charging Network lists local businesses that offer a standard wall outlet while you eat or shop. A few things to know:
- Bring the charger that came with your bike.
- You may need to detach the battery and carry it inside.
- Plan on 30 to 60 minutes for a useful top-off.
- Buy something while you charge. These businesses are doing riders a favor.
Participating businesses are independent of Quest, and the list changes, so check the network page for current stops. If you are riding a pedal assist bike with a modest battery, a lunch stop in Ottawa or Utica is a good time to plug in.
Renting an eBike
Our eBike rentals run from April 15 to late October, weather permitting. Pick-up and return are at Heritage Harbor Ottawa Marina. Details to know:
- Riders must be at least 16. Riders under 18 must be with a parent or guardian on their own bike.
- Rentals include a premium helmet, cable lock, signal bell and rear safety lamp.
- Arrive 20 to 30 minutes early for paperwork and orientation.
- Sport-type shoes are required. No sandals or flip-flops.
Rates start at $40 for two hours and go up to $90 for six hours, our best value for a long trail day. Fall color makes late season rides especially nice, but dates depend on weather, so call to confirm.
Trail etiquette
- Announce yourself or ring your bell before passing on the left.
- Slow down near walkers, kids and dogs. You will likely be moving faster than most.
- Stay on the trail and respect posted signs from the DNR.
- Carry water, and check the weather before you go.
Plan your ride
Our I&M Canal Trail page has the full destination list. Thinking of buying a bike instead? See our eBikes. To book a rental or ask about a test ride, call 815.433.2200 or stop in at 1851 Old Chicago Rd, Ottawa, IL 61350. Sales hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
FAQ
How long is the I&M Canal State Trail?
The restored park is a 63-mile linear park between Lockport and LaSalle, owned and maintained by the Illinois DNR.
What is the trail surface like?
Crushed limestone. It is relatively flat and uncrowded, but ride a little slower than you would on pavement, especially after rain.
How far is it from Heritage Harbor to Utica by eBike?
About 12.4 miles west, or about 25 miles round trip. Our rental eBikes are rated for up to 40 miles per charge, but actual range varies with wind, weight and how much you use the throttle.
Where do I rent an eBike for the trail?
Rentals begin and end at Heritage Harbor Ottawa Marina, right at the trail. Rentals run April 15 to late October, weather permitting.
Can I charge my eBike along the trail?
Yes, at participating businesses in the Quest eBike Charging Network. Bring your own charger and plan on 30 to 60 minutes.
Can I ride on Route 23-71 downtown?
No. Columbus and LaSalle Streets are prohibited for bikes because of heavy traffic. Use the Ottawa River Walk instead.