The best cycling routes around Crestwood

There are over 30 touring cycling routes around Crestwood, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with about half being easy, and the rest split between moderate and a few more challenging options.

Crestwood's touring cycling routes primarily feature riverine landscapes and extensive greenway trails. You can expect a mix of paved paths and natural surfaces, with some routes offering gentle elevation changes. The River Des Peres loop — Kirkwood, for instance, offers varied terrain suitable for a longer ride.

Yes, Crestwood offers several easy routes suitable for families. The Meramec Greenway Trail – Henry L. Simpson Park loop from Unger County Park is an excellent choice, being an 8.5-mile easy trail through riverine woodlands, often completed in under an hour.

Many routes in Crestwood follow the Meramec River, offering views of limestone bluffs and woodlands. The Meramec Greenway Trail itself is a prominent natural feature. You can also explore areas like Queeny Park, which provides pleasant natural surroundings.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Crestwood are designed as loops. Popular options include the River Des Peres loop — Kirkwood and the Meramec Greenway Trail – Henry L. Simpson Park loop from Unger County Park, both offering convenient circular paths.

The touring cycling routes in Crestwood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, including riverfront paths and wooded sections, and the variety of options for different ability levels.

While many routes are easy to moderate, Crestwood does offer a few more challenging options for experienced touring cyclists. These routes typically feature more significant elevation gains and longer distances. For example, the Bike loop from Grantwood Village covers nearly 23 miles with over 700 feet of elevation gain.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can find cultural attractions like the Laumeier Sculpture Garden near some of the routes. The River des Peres Greenway itself is a notable feature, connecting various points of interest.

Access to specific trailheads via public transport can vary. It's advisable to check local public transportation schedules and routes for the most convenient access points to trails like the Meramec Greenway or River Des Peres Greenway, especially if you're not starting directly from Kirkwood or other major hubs.

Many trailheads and parks along the touring cycling routes, such as Henry L. Simpson Park or Unger County Park, offer dedicated parking facilities. For routes like the River Des Peres Park – Deer Creek Greenway loop from St. George, you can often find parking near the starting points in residential or park areas.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Crestwood, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather, especially on exposed sections of trails.

Many greenway trails and parks in the Crestwood area are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary by park or trail section, so it's always best to check local signage or park websites for the most current rules before heading out with your furry friend.