Destinations

DESTINATIONS

Country Road Cruising

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QUITE FRANKLY, IOWA IS BETter known for corn and soybeans than for exciting motorcycling opportunities. The same undulating hills and glacially bulldozed plains that encourage bin-busting agricultural production can't compete with the scenic vistas of the Appalachians or the Rockies. But while Iowa's scenery may not take your breath away, at least it has a way of encouraging you to take a deep breath, and look at the world with a more laid-back approach.

The best way to en jO\ lowa~s countryside is to do some count~ road cruising. It you enjoy planning your rides in advance. check a map for the paved county roads that make up the state's farmto-market system. These well-maintained backroads are usually lightly traveled and a pleasure to ride.

More off-the-cuff riders will do well to just find a likely looking road and follow it until it intersects another likely looking road and then cruising on it until another interesting road appears. The goal is to let the roads lead you to the simple pleasures that hide far off the beaten path. Don't look for startling panoramas or challenging twñstyturny roads. Just sit back, cruise, and let the Iowa countryside show you its subtle beauty.

So the next time you're in the Midwest, slip off the interstate, shift your mind into “cruise" and let some of Iowa's county roads sneak up on you. It may not be the most exciting ride you'll ever have, but it may be one of the most relaxing.

Dan Anderson

Information

Tourism/Film Office, Iowa Department of Economic Development, 200 E. Grand Avenue Des Moines Iowa 50309