By Bill on June 05, 2006
"It would seem the metro area has allowed various land owners to squat on original railbed in many places producing a disconnected patchwork. It is at least three separate trails. Furthermore, if there are signs along the route helping to connect the segments I cannot find them. I tried taking to city streets to get from one trail to the other without success. Just explored the Western section that starts/ends out near the Mitsubishi factory. Not as crowded, but plenty of glass on trail where trail safely parallels a live rail through town to Eastern Illinois. Warning signs promising camera surveillance and no tossing stones into windows on businesses in that area suggested it is not a good place to be alone with an expensive bike at times. Definately stick to the middle plus-shaped section for safety, but it is also crowded at times. Plenty of opportunity to stop and start in downtown Normal. The Eastern segment beyond Hershey Street is in very good condition, but a disappointing dead end. A few historical markers along the way. Good local trail with at least two bike shops adjacent to plus-shaped section of trail (Vitesse and Bloomington). Sadly, I would not travel from even Springfield or Chicago for this one."
By Ellen Forcier on September 10, 2005
"My daughter and I took advantage of the Constitution Trail today. It was the first time either of us had ventured out of our local town for a ride. The trail is in beautiful shape and wanders through some beautiful parts of Bloomington-Normal I didn't know existed. Well shaded with water readily available for riders, walkers and even 4 legged friends. There were portable toilets also along the trail. Hard surface made riding very easy. Generally flat with a few rises. It was totally fun."
By David Jacobs on November 23, 2004
"This trail is part of my past since I grew up in B&N. When I go back home to visit from Florida, I make a point of running it several times. I remember back when the camel back bridge used to have trains going under it instead of runners like me.
The run through Normal north to the Karick elevator is pure county. What more can you ask for in Illinois. Then a quick trip east and under the original Route 66 (now Veterns Parkway) and then on to Towanda Barnes Road.
There's lots to see for this old runner, but I am sure I see this trail much differently than most!"