The Metro East Park and Recreation District has spent a great deal of time refining, correcting and updating: Google's Bicycling Layer in and around Madison and St. Clair Counties in Illinois.

This free and public mapping layer is utilized by Google not only for online use, such as Google Maps, but also Google's ever-growing mobile map application. For example, Android smart-phone users already have access to Google's Mobile Map App where the Bicycling Layer can be viewed and utilized for real-time (GPS) bicycling directions from MEPRD's Trailhead. Be among some of the first in Madison County to replace your old bike computers with your phone in order to access information about distance, speed, timing, elevation, recorded routes, suggested routes, real-time GPS directions, etc. Click here to get started.

NEW - Ready, Set, Explore MEPRD's brand new "Trailhead Specific" Brochure (an MEPRD exclusive)!

In a never-ending attempt to provide trail users the necessary tools and resources to make their trail experience as enjoyable as possible, MEPRD will be printing and making available online a "MEPRD Trailhead Specific" brochure (an MEPRD exclusive) that contains pertinent information about the most frequently asked questions by users of MEPRD's Trailhead located at 104 United Drive in Collinsville, IL.

Frequently asked questions include: Is there a map of all the trails in Madison and St. Clair Counties? MEPRD's brochure contains a detailed, yet user-friendly trail map of both counties. How far is it from MEPRD's Trailhead to there, and back? MEPRD's brochure lists round-trip trail routes starting from MEPRD's Trailhead ranging from 2-miles to 31.1-miles ...and everywhere between. What amenities does MEPRD's Trailhead offer? From free tire air, to a pet drinking fountain, to clean restrooms, the brochure lists them all. What do I do if my bike breaks down while I am on the trail? Another exclusive to MEPRD's Brochure, Riverbend Taxi has confirmed they will pick you and your bicycle up if you break down. (Taxi rates apply and cyclists are responsible for getting themselves and their bicycle to a vehicle-accessible road for pick-up).

The MEPRD "Trailhead Specific" Brochure is a must-have item while exploring the trails of Madison and St. Clair Counties.

MEPRD's other popular online trail resources include: 1. Google Bicycling Directions from MEPRD's Trailhead in Collinsville,
2. MEPRD's online trail and park map with important trail notices, suggested routes, etc., and 3. MEPRD's Trailhead webpage.

The Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park has quickly become a regional hotspot since opening in June 2009. The park features the Mississippi River Overlook, which offers the region's most spectacular views of the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis skyline, as well as a terrific vantage point to view the Gateway Geyser eruptions during the months of April thru October.

The Mississippi River Overlook is a handicap-accessible structure made up of five tiered observation areas, that it is highlighted by an illuminated stainless steel railing system so visitors can enjoy both daytime and nighttime views. ...click here for more information.