Explore the Lake Cooper Loop: A Scenic Midwest Adventure
Discover the charm of the Lake Cooper Loop, a picturesque 50-mile journey around the Mississippi River, where the Great River Road winds through the heart of the Midwest. This enchanting loop connects six small, welcoming communities—Fort Madison, Montrose, and Keokuk in Iowa, and Hamilton, Nauvoo and Niota in Illinois. Each town offers its own unique slice of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect road trip for travelers seeking an authentic and leisurely Midwest experience.
FORT MADISON, IOWA
Fort Madison is Iowa's oldest Mexican settlement with settlers fleeing the Mexican Revolution and to work for the Santa Fe Railway. The Santa Fe Bridge is the world's largest double deck swing span bridge. Historic Iowa State Penitentiary was the oldest prison west of the Mississippi River built in 1839 and closed in 2015. 175 years! Our community has also celebrates our rodeo heritage for over the past 75 years along with our Sheaffer Pen history.
MONTROSE, IOWA
Home to Southeast Iowa's busiest farmer's market, Linger Longer Park, the Iowa Great River Road, Fat Jimmy’s Smokehouse is a very popular barbeque joint, Green Frog Distillery is Southeast Iowa’s only whiskey distillery and the Galland School is Iowa's first school west of the Mississippi River.
KEOKUK, IOWA
Keokuk National Cemetery is older than the Arlington National Cemetery and includes both Union and Confederate soldiers! Lock & Dam 19 is the biggest drop on the Mississippi River at 38'. The geode is the Iowa state rock and can be found within a 35 mile radius of Keokuk.
HAMILTON, ILLINOIS
Enjoy the best view of Lock & Dam 19, Wildcat Springs includes over 90 acres of park including a creek perfect for geode hunting, Deer Run 18 hole golf course, a community pool, campground and new playground equipment.
NAUVOO, ILLINOIS
Home of Illinois' oldest winery, Baxter’s Winery & Vineyard. Latter Day Saints settled here from 1839 to 1846. Rich pioneer history with over 30 homes to tour. Many events including the Nauvoo Grape Festival, Festival On Wheels Car Show, Boo-tiful Nauvoo Pumpkin Festival and the Nauvoo Pageant.
NIOTA, ILLINOIS
With just 65 residents, Niota is the smallest of our communities but has a fun roadside bar directly on the Loop driving route. Why not visit The Wye Not Tavern!
THE GREAT RIVER ROAD
Welcome to a journey along the Great River Road, where the majestic Mississippi River weaves its way through the heartland of America, offering breathtaking views, charming towns, and endless opportunities for adventure. Embark on a breathtaking 50-mile journey along the Mississippi River, connecting Southeast Iowa and Western Illinois via the enchanting Lake Cooper Loop.
