Katy Trail and St. Charles Greenways Loop

For this loop, a racebike is suitable, but consider your tires. The Katy Trail sections are primarily crushed limestone, which can be smooth but also dusty or gravely. For comfort and performance on this surface, tires 25mm or wider are recommended. The St. Charles Greenways are typically paved asphalt, where narrower road bike tires perform well.

The loop offers varied terrain. The Katy Trail portions feature a crushed limestone surface, known for being exceptionally flat. In contrast, the St. Charles Greenways, such as the Boschert Greenway, are mostly paved with asphalt. However, some greenway sections, like parts of the Centennial Greenway, include moderate climbs and descents, adding elevation change to the ride.

The loop is generally considered easy to moderate. The Katy Trail sections are very flat and accessible. However, the inclusion of St. Charles Greenways can introduce moderate hills, particularly on the Centennial Greenway. While beginners can enjoy much of the route, some sections might require a bit more fitness.

You'll encounter a mix of natural beauty and historical points. Along the Katy Trail, expect views of the Missouri River and limestone bluffs. The route also passes by the Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Missouri River and through Old Town Cottleville. The greenways connect to historic downtown St. Charles and local parks.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter cycling is possible but may involve colder temperatures and potential trail closures due to snow or ice. Check local weather and trail conditions before you go.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on both the Katy Trail State Park and the St. Charles Greenways. They must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access or cycle on the Katy Trail State Park or the St. Charles Greenways. Both are publicly accessible for recreational use.

There are numerous access points with parking along both the Katy Trail and the St. Charles Greenways. For this specific loop, popular starting points often include trailheads in St. Charles or nearby communities that connect directly to the greenway system or the Katy Trail. Check local maps for specific trailhead parking locations.

Yes, this route utilizes and connects several official trails. You'll spend significant time on the Katy Trail and Katy Trail State Park. It also incorporates sections of the Mississippi River Trail (Missouri), ADT - Missouri - L - Seg 2, Boschert Greenway, Busch Greenway, and Centennial Greenway, among others.

Towns along the Katy Trail are generally cyclist-friendly. You can find bike shops, campgrounds, cafes, breweries, wineries, and lodging in many of the communities. However, services might not be available at every trailhead, so it's wise to plan your stops, especially for water and food.

The Katy Trail itself is predominantly crushed limestone for its entire length. While it can be very well-packed and smooth in high-traffic areas, it is not paved with asphalt. The paved sections you encounter on this loop will be part of the St. Charles Greenways or connecting roads, not the Katy Trail itself.