The best road cycling routes in St. Charles County

Embark on the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop for a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 22.1 miles (35.6 km) with 326 feet (99 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 2 hours and 3 minutes. This route offers a dynamic ride, transitioning from the smooth paved paths circling Creve Coeur Lake, where you can enjoy views of sailboats on the water, to the crushed limestone of the Katy Trail. As you cycle, you'll pass through wooded areas and wetlands, catching glimpses of Little Creve Coeur Lake. The Katy Trail section follows the Missouri River, taking you through forests and fields, often beneath a leafy canopy, with occasional views of towering bluffs.

When planning your road cycling trip, be aware that the Katy Trail section of this loop features a crushed limestone surface. For a more comfortable ride and to minimize puncture risks, you might consider using a bike with wider tires, ideally 32mm or larger. Accessing the Katy Trail from Creve Coeur Park includes some uphill sections, notably a ramp from the St. Charles side of the Page Avenue bridge that uses switchbacks to manage the incline. This moderate route is best enjoyed during daylight hours, allowing ample time to complete the 2 hours and 3 minutes ride.

This loop provides a varied cycling experience by combining two distinct environments: the recreational paths around Creve Coeur Lake and the historic Katy Trail. The lake portion offers open water views and parkland scenery, while the Katy Trail immerses you in a natural corridor along the Missouri River. This blend of paved and crushed limestone surfaces makes the route unique in the region, offering both scenic beauty and a diverse terrain challenge for road cyclists.

Embark on the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop, a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 33.9 miles (54.6 km) with 705 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 3 hours and 52 minutes. This route offers a diverse ride, taking you through hardwood forests and along creek-side boardwalks. You will enjoy open views of the Missouri River, especially as you pass by the Historic Bridge. The varied surfaces and changing scenery make for an engaging journey.

Before you set out, be aware that while much of the Busch Greenway is paved and the Katy Trail is crushed limestone, the Hamburg Trail section consists of crushed gravel. If you are on a pure road bike, you might want to consider a bike with wider tires or plan an alternative route for that segment. A convenient self-service bike repair station is available at the Missouri Research Park trailhead, should you need it.

This loop takes you through significant natural conservation areas, including the August A. Busch Conservation Area. Here, you might spot local wildlife and wildflowers, depending on the season. You will also pass by Klondike Park, which features interesting natural and man-made elements like the Klondike Park Quarry, adding unique points of interest to your ride.

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure along the Katy Trail from St. Charles to Machens, covering 24.8 miles (39.9 km) with a gentle 149 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a relaxed ride, taking you through varied landscapes of forests, open fields, and towering bluffs alongside the Missouri River. You will experience shaded segments and open countryside, with opportunities to spot small lakes and enjoy panoramic views, especially near Klondike Park. Expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 44 minutes at a steady pace.

St. Charles serves as an excellent starting point for this section of the Katy Trail, providing easy access and various amenities to begin your ride. Before you head out, it is important to check trail conditions, particularly for the segment near Machens. This area is known to be susceptible to flooding due to its low elevation and close proximity to both the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, which could impact your ride.

This segment of the Katy Trail is part of the larger Katy Trail State Park, renowned for its crushed limestone surface that makes for a smooth road cycling experience. As you start in Historic Downtown St. Charles, you can see Frontier Park and its prominent Lewis and Clark statue, connecting you to a rich historical narrative. The trail's unique position following the Missouri River offers a distinct perspective on the region's natural beauty and historical significance.

This moderate 39.8 miles (64.0 km) racebike route combines the varied surfaces and scenery of the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop. You will cover 745 feet (227 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes, offering a diverse ride. The Katy Trail section features a largely flat, crushed limestone path winding through river bluffs, forests, and open fields. As you transition to the Creve Coeur Lake Loop, the surface becomes paved, providing scenic views of the lake itself and its surrounding marshlands. You'll also cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge, a notable point on this popular St. Louis area ride.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Katy Trail's crushed limestone surface can become soft after rain, so check conditions before you go. For the most comfortable experience, consider riding in spring or autumn to enjoy mild temperatures or vibrant fall foliage. You will find restrooms and water fountains conveniently located within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. Ample parking is typically available at the trailheads for both the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop, making access straightforward.

This route stands out for its unique combination of two distinct cycling environments near St. Louis. You get the expansive, natural feel of the Katy Trail, a former railroad corridor, paired with the more contained, scenic loop around Creve Coeur Lake. The trail offers a chance to experience both riverine landscapes and tranquil lake views, showcasing the diverse outdoor opportunities in the region. It is a popular choice for cyclists looking for a substantial ride with varied terrain and points of interest.

Embark on the Katy Trail and Weldon Spring Loop, a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 31.0 miles (49.9 km). You will gain 773 feet (236 metres) in elevation, typically completing the route in about 2 hours and 47 minutes. As you ride, you will experience diverse scenery, from the tranquil Missouri River and its towering bluffs to peaceful forests and wetlands, with the Veterans Memorial Bridge offering a notable landmark along the way.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the Katy Trail primarily features a smooth, packed crushed limestone surface, sections within the Weldon Spring Conservation Area can present gravel or hard-packed dirt, along with some challenging hills. If you are a road cyclist, you should prepare for these surface changes and consider your tire width to ensure a comfortable ride. Understanding the varying terrain is key for a smooth experience.

This route offers a unique blend of environments, showcasing the river views and small-town architecture along the Katy Trail, contrasted with the glades, croplands, and dramatic bluffs of the Weldon Spring Conservation Area. It provides a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty and varied landscapes of the region, making it a distinctive option among local trails.

Embark on the Boschert Greenway and Katy Trail Loop for a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 14.2 miles (22.8 km). You will gain 293 feet (89 metres) in elevation over an estimated 1 hour and 8 minutes. This route offers a varied experience, transitioning from paved greenway sections through New Town and past the lakes of Fox Hill Park, to the famous crushed limestone of the Katy Trail. As you cycle, you can enjoy elevated views of the Missouri River valley and spot the unique "Blomstre" sculpture.

When planning your visit, remember that both the Boschert Greenway and the Katy Trail are generally considered easy to moderate for cycling, making them suitable for many fitness levels. The Boschert Greenway is mostly paved, while the Katy Trail features hard-packed crushed limestone. While road bikes are generally fine, wider tires are often recommended for comfort on the Katy Trail, especially if the surface is sandy or mushy after rain. Parking is available at various access points along the route, making it easy to start your ride.

The Katy Trail section of this loop follows the Missouri River, offering picturesque views of majestic river bluffs, peaceful farmland, and thick forests. This part of the trail is a significant piece of Missouri's outdoor infrastructure, built on a former railroad corridor. The combination of urban greenway and historic rail-trail provides a unique blend of scenery and cycling surfaces, connecting you to Historic Downtown St. Charles along the way.

Embark on the Katy Trail and Earth City Levee Loop for a moderate road cycling experience that blends diverse surfaces and scenic river views. This route spans 32.8 miles (52.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 246 feet (75 metres), making it accessible for many riders. You can expect to complete the loop in about 3 hours and 7 minutes, enjoying the varied terrain from crushed limestone to smooth pavement. As you cycle, you will pass by the historic St. Charles section of the Katy Trail, offering glimpses of the Missouri River's floodplains and limestone bluffs.

Before you head out, be aware that some sections of the Earth City Levee Loop, particularly within Riverwoods Park, are permanently closed due to past flooding. It is also wise to check for temporary closures near the 370 bridge, as construction can sometimes affect access. The trail combines hard-packed, crushed limestone on the Katy Trail, which is best suited for tires 25mm or wider, with the entirely paved Earth City Levee. This mix ensures a varied and engaging ride, but plan your tire choice accordingly.

This route is a popular choice for cyclists in the St. Louis area, known for its unique blend of riding surfaces and natural beauty. The Katy Trail portion meanders alongside the Missouri River, providing expansive views that are particularly vibrant in spring and autumn. From the elevated Earth City Levee, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Missouri River, with historic St. Charles and the Ameristar casino visible across the water. It offers a distinct perspective on the region's landscape and history.

Embark on the Katy Trail and Augusta Loop, a difficult road cycling route spanning 49.4 miles (79.5 km) with a significant 1856 feet (566 metres) of elevation gain. This challenging ride takes approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes to complete, guiding you through diverse landscapes. You will cycle past impressive rock cliffs, meander through dense woodlands, and enjoy picturesque views of the Missouri River Valley, especially near Klondike Park.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the Katy Trail provides abundant trailheads equipped with amenities like water fountains and restrooms for convenient access. Augusta serves as a popular and well-equipped stop along the route, offering restaurants, lodging, and essential bike services. For added flexibility, consider using Amtrak's bike-friendly service, which allows for various shuttle options to create different loop configurations.

This route is specifically designed for road cyclists seeking a substantial and rewarding experience. As you pedal, you will discover charming small towns, including Augusta, which is renowned for its local wineries. The trail's path alongside the Missouri River and through farmlands offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it a notable journey for those who appreciate both natural beauty and a good workout.

Embark on the Katy Trail and St. Charles Greenways Loop, a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 52.2 miles (84.0 km) with an elevation gain of 1266 feet (386 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 3 hours and 50 minutes. The trail offers a varied landscape, blending the rustic charm of the Katy Trail with the more developed feel of paved greenways. As you cycle, you will encounter picturesque views of the Missouri River and impressive limestone bluffs, especially along the Katy Trail sections. Keep an eye out for the Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Missouri River, a significant landmark on your journey.

This loop is generally accessible, connecting various communities and providing safe passage over busy highways. While the route is well-established, remember that services like bike shops or cafes might not be available at every trailhead along the Katy Trail. It is a good idea to plan your stops for refreshments and any bike maintenance needs in advance. Consider starting your ride early in the day to make the most of the daylight and avoid peak traffic times in more urban sections.

The Katy Trail and St. Charles Greenways Loop offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local history. The route takes you through historic downtown St. Charles, allowing you to experience a mix of natural scenery and local amenities. This trail is notable for its combination of the historic Katy Trail State Park, one of the country's longest rail-trails, with modern greenways, providing a diverse and engaging cycling experience for you to explore.