The best cycling routes in St. Louis County

St. Louis County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 100 options available. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy paved paths to more challenging trails with elevation changes.

The touring cycling routes in St. Louis County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained trails, and the variety of environments, including riverfront paths, urban green spaces, and state parks.

St. Louis County's touring cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You'll find extensive paved greenways, paths through woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, as well as routes with rolling hills and limestone bluffs along rivers like the Meramec. Options range from mostly flat to routes with moderate elevation changes.

Yes, St. Louis County has many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Creve Coeur Park Trails offer paved pathways around Creve Coeur Lake. Another great option is the Route 66 State Park Outer Loop Trail, which is also an easy ride through the park.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Katy Trail – Katy Trail loop from Chesterfield offer a longer distance of over 100 km and some elevation. The region also features trails with more significant climbs, such as the Rock Hollow Trail loop from Manors of Castle Ridge, which includes over 300 meters of ascent.

Many routes in St. Louis County offer scenic views and pass by natural features. The Gravois and River des Peres Greenways Loop provides diverse scenery, while the Meramec River Valley, accessible via routes like the Meramec Greenway: Valley Park Loop, offers stunning views of the river and limestone bluffs. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park also features beautiful lake views, especially at Sunset View of Creve Coeur Lake.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in St. Louis County are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Gravois and River des Peres Greenways Loop, the Meramec Greenway: Valley Park Loop, and the Baldwin loop.

Along the touring cycling routes, you can explore various attractions and landmarks. The River des Peres Greenway is a notable cycling path, and you might cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge. Many routes pass by lakes such as Mallard Lake. Additionally, Forest Park, though not directly on all routes, is a major attraction with cultural institutions and extensive paths.

While specific regulations vary by park and trail, many greenways and state parks in St. Louis County generally allow dogs on leashes. It's always best to check the specific rules for the park or trail you plan to visit, but areas like the Meramec Greenway are often popular with dog owners.

The best time for touring cycling in St. Louis County is typically spring and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, beautiful foliage, and comfortable conditions. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can bring cold temperatures and occasional snow, though some dedicated cyclists ride year-round.

Yes, several touring cycling routes in St. Louis County connect with or incorporate sections of the famous Katy Trail. For example, the Katy Trail and Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Loop allows you to experience both the Katy Trail and the levee system. Another option is the Katy Trail – Frontier Park loop from Monarch Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking.

While many touring routes are paved, St. Louis County also offers options for those who prefer unpaved sections or mountain biking. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, for instance, has dirt trails like "Bootlegger's Run" in addition to its paved pathways. Areas like Castlewood State Park and Eureka Mountain Bike Park also provide more rugged terrain suitable for mountain bikes.

Many popular touring cycling routes in St. Louis County have designated parking areas at trailheads or within nearby parks. For example, routes like the Katy Trail – Frontier Park loop from Monarch Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking explicitly mention parking availability. Major parks like Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park and Route 66 State Park also offer ample parking facilities.