Trail of Tears Road (IL-127)
Illinois Route 127 runs south from Murphysboro through the Trail of Tears State Forest and the Illinois Ozarks to Jonesboro, passing through Alto Pass where a right turn brings riders to the Bald Knob Cross atop a commanding hill. The road is hilly and tree-lined with cascading panoramic views across rolling countryside. South of Murphysboro the pavement curves through forested hollows in rapid succession; traffic is typically light on weekdays. The route is a key leg of the Murphysboro–Anna–Carbondale loop, one of the most-referenced motorcycle circuits in southern Illinois.
What you'll hit along the way.
Rider-verified stops, overlooks, fuel, and the corners worth knowing about — in the order you'll meet them.
Jonesboro
Small southern Illinois county seat where IL-127 begins its northward run through the Shawnee Hills.
Dixie's BBQ
Local barbecue spot at the route's start, a good place to fuel up before heading out.
Alto Pass
Quiet hilltop village set amid the Shawnee National Forest with scenic views of the surrounding ridgelines.
Murphysboro
Larger town at the midpoint offering fuel, food, and services before the route continues north toward flatter terrain.
Carlyle
Home to Carlyle Lake, Illinois's largest man-made lake, making it a natural stopping point near the end of the ride.
Subway
Convenient food stop marking the northern end of the route where IL-127 wraps up its journey.
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Runs are rider-logged & GPS-traced in the app
Ride your own ride — times are rider-logged & GPS-traced, never a race on public roads.
Shot by the riders who've run it.
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