DAVENPORT, IOWA (June 12, 2019) — See the river from a unique vantage point; ride one-way east from the YMCA on 2nd Street in Davenport across Arsenal Island from the Davenport gate and exit to Moline’s riverfront trail. Ride up river to the Celebration Belle dock in Moline, board the boat (bikes will be in a secured area) for a river cruise near the I-74 bridge construction, and more. Due to closure of some riverfront trails and high-water at Leach Park, there will be no boat/barge crossing on this year’s ride. Organizers have created a route using streets and select trails to host a memorable event on and along the Mississippi River on Father’s Day, June 16, 2019. From the Celebration dock, ride to The Bend in East Moline to take in the view from the 9th floor River Room at Hyatt Place for a 35th birthday celebration with cake compliments of HyVee, and ice cream compliments of River Cities Rotary.
Also at The Bend, Tales on the Trail, a River Cities Rotary initiative, will feature two short-story "tale trails" for kids to enjoy while they walk and stretch their legs. The first walking "trail" at The Bend will feature Wink Kids R&R (Rest and Read), providing shade and books for kids to read. The second will feature another "tale trail." Both areas will provide information about local libraries’ summer-reading programs.
Head back along the same route, then continue west on the bike trail to Rock Island for the fun in Schwiebert Park for lawn games, more good food, and cold drinks. Final stretch is crossing Centennial Bridge back to Davenport and the YMCA Headquarters.
The roughly 16-mile route is open, 7AM-3PM.
Bike-repair stations are located along the route and at headquarters.
Headquarters and the Start: Davenport YMCA, 606 West 2nd Street, Davenport
- Saturday, June 15, 9AM-Noon: Packet Pickup and bike helmet sales. All riders will receive a free Ride the River reusable water bottle compliments of Davenport Noon Kiwanis Club.
- Sunday, June 16, registration is open, 6:30AM-Noon. Sales of bike helmets, 2019 and vintage T-shirts. Food trucks and the HyVee Healthy You Mobile with the Blender Bike will be available in the Y parking lot. (Use your pedal power to make your own smoothie!)
To Register: On line at www.riveraction.org/ridetheriver through noon Friday, June 14;
Registration also will be available Saturday, 9AM-Noon, and Sunday, 7AM-Noon, at the Davenport YMCA Headquarters, 606 W 2nd Street in Davenport. Brochures and registration are available at River Action’s temporary office, 736 Federal Street, Suite 2302, Davenport, and area bike-shops. Packet pickup and volunteer check-in available Saturday, 9AM-Noon, at Headquarters.
