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Road cycling routes
United States
Missouri
Jefferson County

Lake Tekakwitha

The best road cycling routes around Lake Tekakwitha

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 27, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Lake Tekakwitha, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in: our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed the best of the best, so we've curated a shortlist to save you the guesswork.

Road cycling around Lake Tekakwitha is all about embracing the rolling hills, wooded areas, and farmlands that define this corner of the Ozark Plateau. You'll find well-paved roads that offer everything from moderate loops to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, all within Jefferson County's scenic landscapes.

If you only do one ride, make it the classic Route 66 from Pacific, a moderate 41.2 miles (66.2 km) with plenty of climbing that truly captures the area's character. For a different flavor of rolling hills and varied scenery, the Melrose Road – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop from Young Conservation Area is another top favorite, covering 42.1 miles (67.7 km). With more than 45 road cyclists already exploring these routes on komoot, you're in good company.

If you only do 2 of these routes

  1. 1

    Route 66 from Pacific
  2. 2

    Downtown Eureka – Fox Creek Road loop from Young Conservation Area

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Route 66 from Pacific

66.2 km

620 m

Moderate

Downtown Eureka – Fox Creek Road loop from Young Conservation Area

49.0 km

420 m

Moderate

1.

Route 66 from Pacific

66.2km

03:08

620m

620m

Embark on a journey along a historic stretch of the Mother Road with the "Route 66 from Pacific" road cycling route. This moderate 41.2-mile (66.2 km) ride, with its 2039 feet (621 metres) of elevation gain, winds through the picturesque rolling hills of Missouri. You'll experience the classic American landscape and the unique atmosphere of a route steeped in history, passing by natural features like the Rock Hollow Trail along the way. It's a ride that offers both a physical challenge and a nostalgic trip back in time.

Planning your ride means being ready for varied road conditions and potential headwinds, common on long-distance routes. While this 3-hour and 8-minute tour doesn't have specific access warnings, always carry enough water and check the local forecast before you set out. This segment is best enjoyed by cyclists who appreciate a moderate workout combined with the charm of historic roadways.

This particular section of Route 66 offers a taste of the iconic highway's diverse character, moving through the transitional prairie grasslands and rolling terrain of Missouri. It's part of a larger network that once connected the nation, providing a unique opportunity to cycle through a living piece of American heritage. The federal designation as U.S. Bicycle Route 66 (USBR 66) underscores its significance as a cycling destination.

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2.

Downtown Eureka – Fox Creek Road loop from Young Conservation Area

49.0km

02:18

420m

420m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Tips from the Community

j3f12
June 2, 2024, Bouquet Road

Hilly ride through the countryside. Very little car traffic.

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No separate bike path but broad, bike-friendly shoulders. Recommended.

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j3f12
April 20, 2024, Downtown Eureka

Restaurants and coffee shops, ideal for a pit stop

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0

j3f12
April 20, 2024, Fox Creek Road

Beautiful country road, but quiet a bit of car traffic

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0

To get to this section, you need to briefly go onto Manchester. It's doable, however.

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This is a paved trail that passes through the forest in Sherman Beach Park. There are great views of the river in the southern portion of the trail.

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Great stetch of quiet winding and rolling road through a rural setting of field and woodlands.

1

0

Curvy, treelined roadway through Greensfelder County Park. A nice climb or fast descent on the south portion of the road depending on which direction you are coming from.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available around Lake Tekakwitha?

There are 10 road cycling routes available around Lake Tekakwitha, offering diverse experiences through the region's varied terrain.

What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling near Lake Tekakwitha?

The region around Lake Tekakwitha, situated within the Ozark Plateau, is characterized by rolling hills, wooded areas, and farmlands. You'll encounter scenic waterways and varied elevations, providing a mix of challenges and picturesque views.

Are there challenging road cycling routes in the Lake Tekakwitha area?

Yes, there is one difficult road cycling route available. For example, the Woods Avenue Scenic Road – Kirkwood Train Station loop from Young Conservation Area is a challenging option, covering over 64 miles with significant elevation gain.

What is the best time of year for road cycling around Lake Tekakwitha?

The Lake Tekakwitha region experiences all four seasons. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming landscapes. Summer can be warm, while winter cycling is possible but may require appropriate gear for colder conditions.

Are there any interesting landmarks or viewpoints along the road cycling routes near Lake Tekakwitha?

While direct viewpoints on the road cycling routes are not explicitly listed, the area offers several natural attractions. You might find yourself near trailheads like Eagle Valley Trailhead, Dogwood Trail, or Declue Trail. The Allenton Road in Greensfelder County Park is also a notable cycleway in the vicinity.

What do other road cyclists say about the routes around Lake Tekakwitha?

The road cycling routes around Lake Tekakwitha are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 1 review. Cyclists appreciate the varied terrain, which includes rolling hills and scenic wooded sections.

Are there any road cycling routes that offer a loop experience?

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Melrose Road – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop from Young Conservation Area and the Downtown Eureka – Fox Creek Road loop from Young Conservation Area are popular circular options.

Can I find parking easily for road cycling routes in the Lake Tekakwitha area?

Many routes, such as those starting from Young Conservation Area, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details for parking information at the trailhead or starting point.

Are there any road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier ride?

While most routes are classified as moderate, the region's diverse terrain means there are sections that are less strenuous. For example, the Downtown Eureka – Fox Creek Road loop from Young Conservation Area is a moderate 30-mile route that winds through wooded valleys and farmlands, offering a good balance for those building endurance.

What are some popular starting points for road cycling routes near Lake Tekakwitha?

Popular starting points include Pacific, Missouri, for routes like Route 66 from Pacific, and Young Conservation Area, which serves as a base for several loop routes such as the Melrose Road – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop.

Are there options for longer road cycling tours in the area?

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Melrose Road – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop from Young Conservation Area cover over 42 miles, and the Route 66 from Pacific extends to 41 miles, providing substantial distances for endurance cyclists.

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