Meeting of the Great Rivers is in southwest Illinois about 20 miles north of Saint Louis, Missouri. The byway begins in Alton at the Melvin Price Lock and Dam and travels north to Kampsville. It follows IL 100, Eldred Road, and IL 108 for a total of 50 miles. The byway reaches Kampsville via a ferry across the Illinois River. The roads followed are two-lane paved roads suitable for all vehicles.

Meeting of the Great Rivers follows the Mississippi River between Alton and Pere Marquette State Park and the Illinois River to Kampsville. Dense woodland and high bluffs add to the scenic beauty of the byway. In fall, the region is decorated with vibrant color. The byway traveler passes through several small communities with Victorian homes and rural areas with charming farmhouses and barns. A variety of wildlife inhabits the region including deer, otter, and beaver. In January and February, bald eagles can be seen. In November and March thousands of white pelicans stay a week or two during their migration.

Camping is available in the Pere Marquett State Park. It has 117 RV and tent sites; 82 have electric hookups. It also features nature trails, horseback riding, and fishing. The state park is open all year.

Information: Greater Alton/Twin Rivers Convention and Visitors Bureau, 200 Piasa St, Alton IL 62002 / 618-465-6676 or 800-258-6645. Pere Marquette State Park, PO Box 158, Grafton IL 62037 / 618-786-3323