The best road cycling routes in Missouri

Missouri offers a wide array of road cycling opportunities, with over 500 routes available for exploration. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy greenway paths to more challenging rides with significant elevation gains.

For those seeking an easier ride, Missouri has over 200 routes classified as easy. A great option is the Forest Park Tour loop, an urban green space path, or the Gravois Greenway and River des Peres Greenway Loop, which offers a pleasant ride through urban greenways.

Yes, Missouri features 17 routes classified as difficult, offering more strenuous rides for experienced cyclists. One such route is the Little Blue Trace Trail, which provides a longer distance and varied terrain for a more demanding experience.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Missouri, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters may bring cold temperatures and potential for snow or ice, especially on less maintained paths.

Many road cycling routes in Missouri are designed as loops, providing convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop and the Mississippi River Trail: St. Louis Loop, which offer circular routes through diverse landscapes.

Missouri's road cycling routes traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter scenic river valleys, rolling hills, dense forests, and open prairies. Many routes, especially sections of the Katy Trail, follow the Missouri River, offering picturesque views of the waterway and surrounding bluffs.

Along Missouri's road cycling routes, you can discover various attractions. The Katy Trail, for instance, connects numerous charming small towns and offers views of the Missouri River. In urban areas, routes like the Forest Park Tour loop take you through significant green spaces. You might also encounter historical sites like the Old Courthouse or the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

The road cycling experience in Missouri is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of trails, the scenic river views, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring the state's diverse terrain enjoyable.

While specific public transport access varies by route and location, many urban greenway routes, such as those in St. Louis, are often accessible via local public transportation networks. For longer trails like the Katy Trail, some trailheads in larger towns may have limited public transport options or shuttle services.

Generally, permits are not required for road cycling on most public trails in Missouri, including state parks and greenways. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific regulations for any private or specialized trails you plan to ride, as rules can vary.

The Katy Trail State Park is the longest developed rail-trail in the United States, stretching 240 miles from Clinton to Machens. While its surface is crushed limestone, making it suitable for various bikes, many road cyclists enjoy sections of it, especially those that are well-packed. For more information, you can visit VisitMO.com or Wikipedia.

Yes, Missouri offers many family-friendly road bike paths, particularly on its extensive network of greenways and rail-trails. These routes often feature gentle gradients and smooth surfaces, making them suitable for cyclists of all ages. The Longview Lake Trail is an example of an easy route that families can enjoy.

Yes, areas around Kansas City offer several road cycling routes. The Little Blue Trace Trail is a notable option, providing a significant distance for cycling. Additionally, the Rock Island Trail State Park connects to the Katy Trail near Windsor, expanding the network accessible from the Kansas City area.