Welcome to Mixed SOIL

Mixed SOIL fosters a network of mixed terrain bikepacking routes around Southern Illinois, as well as an urban compost initiative in downtown Cape Girardeau, Missouri. We’re rooted in a shared love for the history of the soil, the local food producers within it, and a burning passion to learn, grow, and travel by bicycle.

Mixed Soil was sprouted with a mission to reconnect cyclists to the soil they ride on as well as connect local growers & land managers to the cycling community. Together, we believe both communities can not only support one another, but work together in educating others about sustainable recreation and preservation of the soil around us.

The route, certain events, and the community around it support a donation based bicycle-powered curbside compost program in downtown Cape Girardeau Missouri.

Starting & Ending in historic downtown Cape Girardeau Missouri, the Mixed SOIL Bikepacking route was intentionally designed to take adventure cyclists deep into the heart of the Shawnee National Forest, connecting surrounding State Parks & Forests, scenic overlooks, historical monuments, area food producers, and fresh flowing waterfalls.

The route is roughly 50% unpaved but maintains a significant backcountry feel throughout the entire 500 mile full loop. Route files and lots of information on the natural areas, food, camping & lodging are all available through the Ride With GPS link from the “Routes” page. Updates are continual, so please reach with any specific questions you might have.

We Foster a Bicycle powered curbside compost collection service and community in downtown Cape Girardeau, Missouri. It’s a donation based service that helps eliminate food waste downtown, fuel our local community garden, and connect our downtown community with weekly bike rides!