The best cycling routes in Horseshoe Lake State Park

There are 6 touring cycling routes available in Horseshoe Lake State Park, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.39 stars.

Yes, Horseshoe Lake State Park offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the MCT Schoolhouse Trail loop from Metro East Park and Recreation District is an easy 11.0-mile (17.7 km) trail that takes about 59 minutes to complete, perfect for a relaxed ride. Another easy option is the MCT Schoolhouse Trail loop from Shelter 5, which is 20.8 miles (33.5 km) long.

Cyclists can expect unique scenery reminiscent of the Deep South, with impressive stands of bald cypress, tupelo gum, and swamp cottonwood trees, especially around the horseshoe-shaped lake. The park features bottomland woods, marshy areas, and offers scenic views of the lake, particularly at sunset. Distant views of downtown St. Louis and the Gateway Arch are also possible from certain points.

While the terrain is generally flat, there are moderate routes for those seeking a longer ride. The Troy Junction at Route 162 – Bridge on MCT Goshen Trail loop from Granite City is a moderate 33.2-mile (53.5 km) path that connects to the MCT Goshen Trail, offering varied scenery. Another moderate option is the Luther Ely Smith Square – Gateway Arch loop from Chouteau Island, which is 46.4 miles (74.7 km) long.

Yes, Horseshoe Lake State Park is well-connected. The park's trails link directly to Madison County Transit's (MCT) Schoolhouse Trail, which is part of an extensive network of over 85 miles of bike trails within Madison County. This network can even lead cyclists to downtown St. Louis, offering opportunities for longer touring rides.

The park's diverse habitats, including bottomland woods and marshy areas, offer unique natural beauty throughout the seasons. Spring and fall generally provide the most comfortable temperatures for cycling. Winter can be interesting for birdwatching, especially for Canada geese, but trail conditions might vary. Summer can be hot and humid, but the lush greenery is at its peak.

The region research indicates that parking is generally available at state parks. While specific parking areas for cyclists are not detailed, the park is accessible by car. For public transportation, the connection to the Madison County Transit (MCT) network suggests potential access points, though direct public transport to the park entrance might require checking local schedules.

Horseshoe Lake and its surrounding wetlands are a haven for birdlife. Cyclists often spot large populations of waterfowl, including up to 150,000 Canada geese during winter. Bald eagles, egrets, and herons are also common sightings, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching during a cycling break.

Yes, many of the routes in the park are designed as loops, allowing for a continuous cycling experience without retracing your path. For example, the Troy Junction at Route 162 – MCT Schoolhouse Trail loop from Meadow Heights is an easy 33.1-mile (53.3 km) circular route.

Yes, Horseshoe Lake State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, some with shelters, which are perfect for a mid-ride stop. For those on longer cycling tours, there are also several camping sites available, ranging from Class A with electricity and showers to more rustic options, suitable for multi-day adventures.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.39 stars from over 10 reviews. Reviewers often praise the park's unique natural beauty, especially the bald cypress trees and the serene oxbow lake. The connections to the extensive MCT trail network and the flat, accessible terrain are also frequently highlighted as major advantages for touring cyclists.