The best cycling routes around Saint-Louis

Saint-Louis offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes, from flat, paved rail-trails and extensive greenways to urban park paths and scenic riverfront trails along the Mississippi and Meramec rivers. You'll find options suitable for various skill levels, including routes with rolling hills and bluffs, and those leading through woodlands and wetlands.

Yes, Saint-Louis has many easy, paved options perfect for beginners and families. The Port de Capesterre – Plage de la Feuillère loop from La Délivrance Grill is a moderate 16.2-mile path with balanced elevation changes. Other excellent choices include sections of the Katy Trail State Park, known for its smooth, flat surfaces, and the River des Peres Greenway Loop. Forest Park also offers over 30 miles of paths suitable for leisurely rides.

For those seeking a challenge, the Anse Canot loop from Saint-Louis is a difficult 38.5-mile route with significant elevation gain. Castlewood State Park, though primarily known for mountain biking, also offers rugged, wooded trails with challenging climbs and fantastic views of the Meramec River from high limestone bluffs, which can be incorporated into more adventurous touring rides.

The region is rich with paved trails. The Katy Trail State Park is the longest rail-trail in the U.S., offering miles of smooth, flat pavement. The Madison County Transit (MCT) Trails provide extensive paved networks. Within the city, the Mississippi River Greenway (Riverfront Trail) and paths in Forest Park are also popular paved options for touring cyclists.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Mare au Punch – Plage de Grand-Bourg loop from Grand-Bourg is a 22.7-mile trail that leads through varied terrain. The Mississippi River Trail: St. Louis Loop is another moderate 43.9-mile cycling route offering diverse scenery in a circular format.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Saint-Louis, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Autumn, in particular, provides spectacular views along routes like the Great River Road through the Illinois River Valley. While cycling is possible in summer, be prepared for warmer temperatures and humidity. Winter cycling is also an option, though some trails may be less maintained or have icy patches.

Many of the greenways and park trails in Saint-Louis are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Popular spots like Forest Park and sections of the Katy Trail generally welcome well-behaved dogs. Always check specific park or trail regulations before heading out, as policies can vary.

Saint-Louis offers numerous attractions accessible by bike. The Riverfront Trail provides impressive views of the city and passes directly under the iconic Gateway Arch. Forest Park features museums, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Missouri Botanical Garden is a short ride from many urban routes. The countryside also offers wineries and vineyards for a pleasant stop.

Yes, many popular touring cycling trails and parks in Saint-Louis offer dedicated parking areas. Major trailheads for the Katy Trail, Forest Park, Castlewood State Park, and Creve Coeur Park typically have ample parking facilities. It's always advisable to check specific trail or park websites for detailed parking information before your ride.

Saint-Louis's public transportation system, MetroLink and MetroBus, can provide access to various parts of the city and some trailheads. Many buses are equipped with bike racks, and bikes are generally allowed on MetroLink trains during off-peak hours. This makes it feasible to combine public transport with your cycling adventures, especially for reaching urban parks or connecting to greenway networks.

The duration of touring cycling routes in Saint-Louis varies greatly depending on the route's length and your pace. For instance, the Anse Canot loop from Saint-Louis, a challenging 38.5-mile route, typically takes around 3 hours 52 minutes. Shorter, moderate routes like the Mare au Punch – Plage de Grand-Bourg loop from Grand-Bourg (22.7 miles) can be completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes. Many shorter urban park loops can be enjoyed in under an hour.