The best road cycling routes in St. Louis city

Saint Louis offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find extensive networks of shared-use pathways, from mostly flat, paved greenways like the River des Peres Greenway to routes with rolling hills, particularly in areas connecting parks or along river bluffs. Many routes, such as those in Forest Park, feature smooth paved surfaces, while others might include sections with gentle inclines for a more varied ride.

Yes, Saint Louis has many easy road cycling options perfect for beginners. Out of the 45 routes available, 27 are classified as easy. Routes like the Forest Park Tour loop (14.8 miles) offer smooth, paved surfaces within expansive urban parks, making them ideal for a relaxed ride. The first six miles of Grant's Trail are also paved and easy to enjoy.

Saint Louis boasts several scenic routes. The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge – Old Chain of Rocks Bridge loop offers unique views of the Mississippi River. The St. Louis Riverfront Trail provides vistas of the industrial landscape and landmarks like the Eads Bridge. For natural beauty, routes in Forest Park pass through old-growth forests and restored woodlands, while Castlewood State Park offers breathtaking views along the Meramec River from high limestone bluffs.

Many popular road cycling areas in Saint Louis are accessible via public transport. Forest Park, for instance, is well-served by MetroLink and MetroBus, allowing easy access to its extensive network of paths. Other greenways like the River des Peres Greenway also have public transport access points, making it convenient to start your ride without a car.

Absolutely. The River des Peres Greenway is a 7.3-mile paved trail that is mostly flat and sunny, making it very suitable for family outings. Grant's Trail is another excellent option, with its first six miles paved and winding through suburban communities, offering a manageable and enjoyable ride for families.

Many routes pass by significant landmarks and attractions. Cycling through Forest Park allows you to see cultural institutions like the Saint Louis Art Museum and the World's Fair Pavilion. Grant's Trail takes you past Grant's Farm and the Ulysses S. Grant Historic Site. The St. Louis Riverfront Trail offers views of the Gateway Arch and the historic Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing. Laumeier Sculpture Park also offers a unique experience, with pathways meandering through almost two dozen art pieces.

Yes, Saint Louis features several excellent loop routes. The Forest Park Tour loop is a popular 14.8-mile option. For a longer ride, the Forest Park to Creve Coeur Lake loop covers 40.5 miles. The Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm – Christy Greenway loop is another great choice at 24.8 miles, offering a circular journey through suburban areas.

The road cycling routes in Saint Louis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of shared-use pathways, the variety of urban parks and riverfront trails, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels. The scenic views along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers and through green spaces like Forest Park are also frequently highlighted.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Saint Louis, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning or late afternoon rides are advisable. While winter can bring snow and ice, many paved trails are cleared, allowing for cycling on milder days, though conditions should always be checked beforehand.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, Saint Louis offers several moderate routes. The Forest Park to Creve Coeur Lake loop is a moderate 40.5-mile path with more elevation gain, connecting two major park areas. The Mississippi River Trail: St. Louis Loop is another moderate 43.9-mile option, offering diverse scenery and a good workout. Out of 45 routes, 16 are classified as moderate and 2 as difficult.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Saint Louis are located near urban areas or pass through communities with amenities. Routes within or near Forest Park, for example, are close to various cafes and restaurants. Similarly, trails like Grant's Trail wind through suburban areas where coffee shops and other services are readily available, making it easy to refuel during your ride.

There are over 45 road cycling routes available in Saint Louis, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 27 easy routes, 16 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, ensuring there's something for every road cyclist.