The best traffic-free bike rides in St. Louis County

St. Louis County offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes, with over 45 routes available for you to explore. These include a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in St. Louis County offer diverse terrain. You'll find everything from flat, paved paths along riverfronts and through urban parks, such as sections of the Mississippi River Trail and Creve Coeur Park, to routes with rolling hills like the Eureka to Missouri River loop, which features over 500 meters of elevation gain. Many routes utilize greenways and rails-to-trails conversions, ensuring smooth surfaces.

Yes, St. Louis County has several easy, family-friendly options perfect for a relaxed ride. Kirkwood Train Station – Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm loop is an excellent choice, offering a relatively flat 39 km ride. Grant's Trail itself is an 8-mile paved route, ideal for all ages. Creve Coeur Park also provides many miles of paved pathways around the lake, suitable for families.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting landmarks. You can cycle along the Mississippi River, enjoy views of Creve Coeur Lake, or cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge for far-reaching views across the Missouri River. Routes like the Kirkwood Train Station – Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm loop pass by Grant's Farm, a popular attraction. You might also encounter the River des Peres Greenway or the Meramec Greenway Trail.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in St. Louis County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Eureka to Missouri River loop, the Kirkwood Train Station – Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm loop, and the Manchester Road – Wild Horse Creek Road loop.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in St. Louis County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved surfaces, the scenic river views, and the peaceful, car-free environment that allows for a truly immersive cycling experience.

Absolutely. St. Louis County is rich in waterways. Many routes, such as those around Creve Coeur Park, offer beautiful views of Creve Coeur Lake. The Mississippi River Trail and Riverfront Trail provide extensive views of the majestic Mississippi River. You can also find routes near the Meramec River, offering different riverside perspectives.

Many popular trailheads and parks in St. Louis County offer dedicated parking facilities. For example, routes like the Le Cave Memorial Trailhead – Centaur Road loop often have specific parking areas like the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking. Major parks such as Creve Coeur Park and Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park also provide ample parking for cyclists.

St. Louis County offers enjoyable cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall are particularly popular due to mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. While some routes are accessible in winter, always check conditions for ice or snow, especially on less-trafficked paths.

Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Eureka to Missouri River loop offer a moderate difficulty with significant elevation gain over its 74 km distance. This route features rolling hills and river views, providing a rewarding ride. The region has 2 difficult routes out of 49 total, so there are options for those looking for a tougher ride.

Public transport access varies by route. Some greenways and park trails, especially those closer to urban centers, may be accessible via public transit connections. It's advisable to check local MetroBus or MetroLink routes and their proximity to specific trailheads or starting points before planning your trip.

Yes, several routes traverse or are near conservation areas known for their natural beauty and wildlife. The Columbia Bottom Conservation Area, at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, offers wetlands, forests, and open fields, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, with its extensive trails, is also a great spot for observing local flora and fauna.