The best road cycling routes around Greendale

Greendale offers a diverse network of over 50 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes primarily traverse urban parks, greenways, and suburban roads.

Yes, Greendale has a good selection of easy road cycling routes. Approximately half of the routes are rated as easy, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Shaw Park – Big Shark Big Bend loop from Forsyth, which covers 34.3 km with moderate elevation.

Road cycling routes in Greendale vary in distance, generally ranging from around 20 km to over 50 km. For instance, the Forest Park – The Grand Basin, Forest Park loop from Clayton is 38.3 km, while the West Lockwood Avenue Eastbound – Deer Creek Greenway loop from Skinker extends to 58.2 km.

While Greendale's terrain features rolling hills, most routes are easy to moderate. However, there are a few routes (around 6) that offer more significant elevation gains and distances for experienced riders seeking a challenge. These routes often combine longer distances with more sustained climbs.

Many routes in Greendale pass through or near beautiful natural areas. You can cycle through Forest Park, which features scenic spots like Post-Dispatch Lake and the Emerson Grand Basin. Jefferson Lake is another beautiful lake you might encounter.

Yes, Greendale's routes offer glimpses of interesting landmarks. Within Forest Park, you can find the Saint Louis Zoo – Wetterau Pavilion and the Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial. You might also cross the Footbridge over I-64, offering unique views.

The road cycling experience in Greendale is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 14 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved paths within urban parks like Forest Park and Shaw Park, as well as the dedicated greenways that connect different areas, offering a pleasant mix of scenery and accessibility.

Yes, many of Greendale's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This is convenient for planning rides, especially if you're driving to a starting point. Examples include the Ladue Road – Shaw Park loop from Wellston and the Shaw Park – Centennial Greenway loop from University City-Big Bend.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Greendale, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and occasional snow or ice, making some routes less suitable.

Many of the easy, paved routes within Greendale's parks and greenways are suitable for families. These routes often have less traffic and flatter sections, providing a safer and more enjoyable experience for cyclists of all ages. The loops within Forest Park are particularly popular for family outings.

Parking is generally available at various access points for Greendale's road cycling routes, particularly near major parks like Forest Park and Shaw Park, and along the greenway entrances. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points with parking facilities.