Metro Bike Link Trail

You can conveniently access the trail and find parking at any of the MetroLink stations located along its route. This integration with the transit system makes it easy to start or end your hike at various points.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. It's a paved asphalt path with predominantly flat sections and gentle inclines, aligning with an easy 'T1 Hiking' difficulty.

The trail features a well-maintained, paved asphalt surface. It's mostly flat, designed as a rail-with-trail path, which means steep grades are avoided. While most of it is flat, a 3.5-mile extension near the Fairview Heights MetroLink Station offers a more picturesque and slightly hilly corridor.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including woods, farmland, a college campus, and city neighborhoods. The trail also features attractive bridges over and under streets, highways, and railroad crossings. Some sections offer shade, wildlife, flowers, and creeks.

While not explicitly stated, as a multi-use paved trail, it is generally understood that dogs are welcome on the Metro Bike Link Trail, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. Please be considerate of other trail users.

Spring and fall are ideal for hiking the trail due to milder temperatures. Be aware that some sections, particularly from Green Mount to McKinley Drive, have very little shade, which can make hiking challenging during hot summers or windy winters.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or use the Metro Bike Link Trail. It is freely accessible to the public.

Yes, the Metro Bike Link Trail is part of the larger MetroBikeLink System, which encompasses over 39 miles of interconnecting trails in the region. It also intersects with the picturesque Richland Creek Greenway Trail west of the Belleville station.

A notable highlight is the MetroBikeLink Trail itself, which is praised for its excellent maintenance and integration with the MetroLink transit system. The trail's elaborate bridges and diverse scenery through various landscapes are also points of interest.

Absolutely. One of the key features of the Metro Bike Link Trail is its direct adjacency and connection to the MetroLink Red Line. You can use the MetroLink transit system to conveniently access different segments of the trail or return to your starting point by train.

Given it's a paved, multi-use trail, comfortable walking or running shoes are recommended. Water is essential, especially on warmer days, as some sections have limited shade. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also advisable. If you plan to use public transport, consider bringing your MetroLink pass.