Grotpeter Trail

The Grotpeter and Lone Wolf Trail Loop in Castlewood State Park offers a dynamic mountain biking experience, weaving through deep forests and along Kiefer Creek. You'll encounter a mix of flowy singletrack on the Grotpeter Trail, contrasted with the steep, rooty, and rocky technical descents of the Lone Wolf Trail. A highlight is the scenic viewpoint overlooking the Meramec River from the Lone Wolf Trail, providing a rewarding vista amidst the challenging terrain.

This 5.3-mile (8.5 km) route, with 423 feet (129 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy overall but includes advanced sections that will test your skills, particularly on the Lone Wolf Trail. Expect to complete the loop in about 47 minutes. It's wise to check current trail conditions before you go, especially if there's been recent rain, as the technical features can become more demanding.

What makes this loop stand out is its blend of challenges, from the notorious "Cardiac Hill" climb on Grotpeter to the "waterfall crossing thing" on Lone Wolf. This combination ensures a varied ride that caters to different skill levels within a single 5.3-mile (8.5 km) circuit, making it a popular choice for those seeking both speed and technical prowess in their mountain biking adventures.