The best cycling routes around St. Joseph

The St. Joseph area offers a diverse network of trails, with over 75 miles across more than 18 trails. This guide features a selection of 4 touring cycling routes, including 2 easy and 2 moderate options, to help you explore the region.

St. Joseph's landscape features a mix of Missouri River bluffs, classic Midwest woodland scenery, and rolling hills. You'll find paved paths, multiuse cross-country trails, and routes that meander through lush green areas. Some trails, like parts of the Urban Trail system, include steep but rewarding inclines and descents.

Yes, the St. Joseph Parkway System is an excellent choice for families. This historic 26-mile paved system offers a safe, shaded 'green belt' through the city, connecting various parks and recreational facilities. It's ideal for leisurely rides away from traffic.

For breathtaking views, cycle along the Missouri River bluffs. The River Bluff Trails Park offers picturesque views of the Missouri River and the Kansas skyline. The St. Joseph Riverwalk also provides scenic overlooks and interpretive signage along the eastern bank of the river.

Many of St. Joseph's trail systems, including the St. Joseph Parkway and the Urban Trail system, are designed to offer customizable routes, allowing you to create loops of varying lengths. This flexibility lets you tailor your ride to your preferred distance and time.

While cycling, you can explore several points of interest. Krug Park, the northern anchor of the Parkway, features wooded trails, a large pond, and even bison and longhorn cattle. The Remington Nature Center, situated on the Missouri River, offers educational exhibits about local nature and history and is accessible via outdoor walking trails.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in St. Joseph, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, impacting trail conditions.

Yes, many of the major trail systems and parks in St. Joseph, such as Krug Park, River Bluff Trails Park, and various points along the St. Joseph Parkway, offer designated parking areas for trail users. It's advisable to check specific park websites for detailed parking information.

While St. Joseph has a public transit system, direct access to all trailheads via public transport may be limited. It's best to consult the local transit authority's routes and schedules to determine the most convenient stops near your desired cycling starting point.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse trail network, the scenic beauty of the Missouri River bluffs, and the historic charm of the St. Joseph Parkway System.

While this guide features easy and moderate routes, the region's rolling hills and some sections of the Urban Trail system offer steeper inclines that can provide a good challenge. For those seeking more technical terrain, the River Bluff Trails Park, while primarily for mountain biking, also has multiuse cross-country trails that can test your skills.

The St. Joseph Parkway System is a historic landmark. You can learn more about its history and significance on Wikipedia.