The best cycling routes around St. Peters

Embark on a relaxed touring bicycle ride along the Katy Trail, a moderate route spanning 21.7 miles (34.9 km). You will gain about 147 feet (45 metres) in elevation, and the journey typically takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete. As you cycle, you'll experience diverse landscapes, from dense hardwood forests to open pastures and farm fields, often with expansive views of the Missouri River and its floodplains. Keep an eye out for the towering limestone bluffs that add a dramatic backdrop to your ride.

Before you head out, know that the trail features a hard-packed, crushed limestone surface. While most bikes can handle it, a hybrid or mountain bike might offer a more comfortable experience. Be aware that the surface can become dusty during dry spells or soft after heavy rain, so plan accordingly. It's also a good idea to check a map beforehand, as not all trailheads provide water and restroom facilities.

This section of the Katy Trail is perfect for exploring the scenic Missouri River valley, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical context. The route closely follows the river, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's ecosystem. It's a great way to connect with the outdoors and enjoy a peaceful ride through varied terrain.

Embark on a moderate touring bicycle adventure with the Busch Greenway, Katy Trail, and Hamburg Trail Loop, a route spanning 33.5 miles (53.8 km) that will take you about 3 hours and 33 minutes to complete. You'll gain 643 feet (196 metres) in elevation as you cycle through a diverse landscape, from the open prairies and woods of the Weldon Springs Conservation Area, where the Busch Greenway meanders past lakes like the Mononame 207 Reservoir, to the peaceful views along the Katy Trail. The Hamburg Trail section offers a more rugged, green experience with the sound of running water accompanying you.

When planning your visit, be aware that the route features a mix of surfaces, including paved sections, crushed limestone, and crushed gravel. The Hamburg Trail, in particular, is not suitable for road bikes, so you should plan to use mountain or hybrid tires for this loop. For your convenience, a self-service bike repair station is available at a trailhead located within the Missouri Research Park, ensuring you're prepared for any minor adjustments needed during your ride.

This loop stands out for its unique combination of three distinct trails, offering a varied cycling experience that showcases the natural beauty of Missouri. You'll encounter fields of sunflowers and diverse flora, making each section feel fresh and engaging. The blend of different trail types and scenery ensures that your touring bicycle journey is anything but monotonous, providing a rich tapestry of sights and sounds throughout.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Centennial Greenway and Creve Coeur Connector, covering 15.1 miles (24.3 km) with a gentle 255 feet (78 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 25 minutes. As you pedal, you will encounter a mix of paved surfaces, passing through residential areas and sections lined with trees, offering a pleasant and varied cycling experience. Keep an eye out for the stunning view of the Missouri River from the Page Avenue Extension Bridge, a key highlight of your journey.

For your convenience, the trails are mostly paved with asphalt, typically 8 feet wide, ensuring a smooth ride. While some initial parts of the Centennial Greenway might have light car traffic, the majority is dedicated to cyclists and pedestrians. You will find benches along the way, and an outdoor water fountain is available at the Heritage Museum. Restrooms are also accessible at the museum during operating hours, with additional facilities, water fountains, and even boat rentals offered within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park.

This route offers a unique blend of urban greenway and natural landscapes, connecting vital parts of the St. Louis trail network. The Creve Coeur Connector, even when paralleling a highway, surprises with picturesque scenes of native prairie grasses, a marsh, and wildflowers. This area provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching around Little Creve Coeur Lake and the Memetonwish wetland, making it a notable escape into nature within the region.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Katy Trail, a scenic route spanning 19.6 miles (31.6 km). You will experience diverse landscapes, from open pastures to dense hardwood forests, as you follow the former railroad corridor. The trail offers picturesque views of the Missouri River, expansive floodplains, and impressive limestone bluffs, providing a constantly changing backdrop for your journey. With a gentle elevation gain of just 233 feet (71 metres), this route is designed for a relaxed pace, taking approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete. Look out for charming boardwalk sections that add to the unique character of your ride.

Planning your touring bicycle trip on the Katy Trail is straightforward, with numerous accessible trailheads available along its length. Parking is generally convenient at these access points. Many trailheads also provide essential amenities like water and restrooms, though their availability can vary depending on the season. Be aware that the crushed limestone surface, while generally well-maintained, can become softer and more challenging to ride after heavy rains.

The Katy Trail holds a significant place in Missouri's landscape, as it repurposes the historic corridor of the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad. This transformation allows you to cycle through areas that once served as vital transportation links, now offering a peaceful journey through nature. The trail's unique position alongside the Missouri River means you are often treated to views of the water and its surrounding ecosystems. It stands out as a prime example of a rail-to-trail conversion, providing a long, continuous path for outdoor enthusiasts.