The best road cycling routes around Ellisville

There are over 50 road cycling routes around Ellisville, Missouri, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes cover a total of 366 km, with varying distances and elevation profiles.

Road cycling routes in Ellisville, Missouri, are characterized by well-paved surfaces, rolling hills, and scenic stretches through parkland and natural areas. You'll find varied terrain, from moderate climbs to more level sections, offering a balanced experience.

Yes, Ellisville offers 14 easy road cycling routes. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and are suitable for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride. Many of the city's parks, like Bluebird Park, also have multi-use trails that can be family-friendly.

For a more challenging ride, consider routes with significant elevation gain. One such route is the Rockwoods Reservation – Manchester Road loop from Robin Park parking, which covers 51.8 km with over 600 meters of elevation gain. Another option is the Wild Horse Creek Road – Melrose Road loop from Ellisville, a moderate 46.1 km path with nearly 500 meters of climbing.

The road cycling routes in Ellisville are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 8 reviews. Over 400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the well-maintained surfaces and scenic views through parkland and natural areas.

Yes, the Ellisville area offers several scenic spots. While cycling, you might encounter views of the Meramec River, especially near Castlewood State Park. Nearby natural features include Lone Wolf Trail, Greensfelder Park, and Rockwoods Reservation Conservation Area, which offer beautiful forest landscapes.

Many of the road cycling routes around Ellisville are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Le Cave Memorial Trailhead – Edison Avenue loop from Ellisville and the Valley Road – Wild Horse Creek Road loop from Ellisville.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking in Ellisville, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Winter riding is possible, but be mindful of colder temperatures and potential ice.

Ellisville itself has an extensive park system, including Bluebird Park with multi-use trails. Nearby, Castlewood State Park offers over 26 miles of trails, some of which are suitable for road cycling or provide access to road routes. The Rockwoods Reservation Conservation Area is also a notable natural area that features in several routes.

Many routes around Ellisville start from designated parking areas. For instance, the Rockwoods Reservation – Manchester Road loop starts from Robin Park parking. Public parks and trailheads often provide convenient parking facilities for cyclists.

While the focus is on natural landscapes and parkland, some routes may pass through or near suburban areas with local points of interest. For a broader historical experience in Missouri, the Katy Trail State Park, a continuous recreational rail trail, offers a unique journey through historic towns, though it's a longer distance from Ellisville.

The road cycling routes in Ellisville vary, but many moderate routes are around 40-50 km (25-30 miles) in distance. Elevation gains typically range from 250 to 600 meters (800 to 2000 feet), providing a good workout with rolling hills.