The best cycling routes around Hillsdale

Hillsdale offers over 20 touring cycling routes, primarily traversing urban green spaces and connecting various city districts. These routes cater to a range of abilities, from easy to difficult.

Yes, Hillsdale has 7 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for beginners is the Wheels Path – Forest Park loop from Washington University in St. Louis, which is 5.7 miles (9.2 km) long and offers a pleasant ride through Forest Park.

The terrain in Hillsdale is generally flat to gently rolling, characterized by established park pathways and accessible city streets. The routes provide an urban cycling experience, often circling through well-maintained parks and along community-focused corridors.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Boathouse Lake Pavilion loop from Delmar Loop covers 31.9 miles (51.4 km) and leads through urban parks and along waterways. Another option is the Barnes-Jewish Hospital – Tower Grove Park loop from Central West End, which is 31.1 miles (49.9 km) and connects significant urban landmarks.

Many routes pass through significant green spaces and near urban landmarks. You can explore areas like Forest Park, which features Post-Dispatch Lake and the Emerson Grand Basin. Other routes might take you past Tower Grove Park or even near the National Blues Museum.

Yes, many of Hillsdale's touring cycling routes are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Wheels Path – Forest Park loop from Clayton and the Citygarden Sculpture Park – Tower Grove Park loop from Cortex.

The routes in Hillsdale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 13 reviews. Cyclists often appreciate the well-maintained urban park pathways and the accessibility of city routes.

Yes, the generally flat terrain and established park pathways make many routes in Hillsdale suitable for families. Easy routes, particularly those within parks, offer a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Hillsdale, with mild temperatures. Summer can be warm, but routes through shaded parks provide some relief. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder weather.

Given the urban nature of Hillsdale's routes, which often pass through city districts and near popular parks, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs conveniently located near many of the cycling paths. Specific amenities will vary by route.

Many of Hillsdale's touring cycling routes are situated within or near urban centers and parks, suggesting good accessibility via public transport. Cyclists can often reach starting points using local bus or metro services, though specific connections will depend on the chosen route.