Rock River Recreation Path

Built at the bicentennial community project in 1976, this ten mile paved path is the "Grand Daddy" of the path system. You can begin your trek in downtown Rockford at Davis Park, cross the State Street Bridge (or at the Jefferson Street Pedestrian Bridge adjacent to the Library, or at the Whitman Street Bridge) and continue north along Madison Street. The path winds behind the YMCA, through Sinnissippi Gardens, past Symbol, to meander through Shorewood and Martin Parks. Cross over the Riverside Bridge path, and continue north and through to Sportscore One. You just went the distance for a total of 7 miles!
 
Now, you can turn around for the return trip or explore Sportscore One on the 3/4 mile paved path, then go further north .62 miles to Harlem Road and the Frank Bauer Toll Bridge (you don't have to pay a toll if you're on the path), and into Machesney Park, where the Bauer Memorial Path continues north on Victory Lane to Machesney Road. The 1.6 mile Bauer path ends at the Burger King on North Second Street.
 
Parking is available at any of the parks, at Machesney Park Mall, or the lot adjacent to the YMCA. Power chair users will find several electrical outlets along the path.