The best cycling routes around Maryville

The touring cycling routes around Maryville primarily utilize established multi-use trails, such as the MCT Goshen Trail and MCT Nature Trail. The landscape is generally flat to gently rolling, with modest elevation changes over longer distances, making it suitable for a relaxed touring experience.

Yes, Maryville offers a good selection of easy touring cycling routes. Out of the 22 available routes, 15 are rated as easy. A great option for beginners or families is the Bike loop from Glen Carbon, which is 12.1 miles (19.5 km) long with minimal elevation gain. Another easy choice is the MCT Nature Trail loop from MCT Walmart, covering 18.2 miles (29.3 km).

For those seeking a longer ride, Maryville has several moderate routes. The Hoppe Park – MCT Goshen Trail loop from Collinsville is a 33.3 miles (53.5 km) route with a total elevation gain of 640 feet (195 meters), offering a good workout. Another moderate option is the Troy Junction at Route 162 – Goshen Trail loop from MCT Walmart, which spans 28.5 miles (45.9 km).

Many of the touring cycling routes in Maryville are designed as loops, providing convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Troy Junction at Route 162 – Bridge on MCT Goshen Trail loop from Goshen - Heritage Trail Connector, the Bike loop from Glen Carbon, and the MCT Nature Trail loop from MCT Walmart. These routes allow you to start and end at the same point.

The routes often connect local parks and communities, offering various points of interest. You might pass by natural areas like Horseshoe Lake or the Watershed Nature Center. Some routes, like the Hoppe Park – MCT Goshen Trail loop from Collinsville, lead through local parks such as Hoppe Park.

While specific cafes directly on every trail segment are not guaranteed, the routes often connect communities where you can find dining options. For example, the historic Luna Cafe (Route 66) is a notable stop in the wider area, offering a unique experience. Many routes pass through towns with local eateries.

The touring cycling routes in Maryville are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained surfaces of the multi-use trails, the accessibility of the paths, and the pleasant, generally flat terrain that makes for enjoyable rides.

Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable conditions for touring cycling in Maryville, with mild temperatures and pleasant scenery. Summer can be warm and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable. Winters are typically cold, but the paved trails can still be used on clear days, though ice and snow may be present.

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available around Maryville, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for cyclists to explore.

While the main MCT trails are popular, exploring routes that venture slightly off the most central sections or riding during off-peak hours (weekdays, early mornings) can offer a quieter experience. Routes that connect smaller communities might also see less traffic than those directly linking major towns.

Given the generally flat to gently rolling terrain, comfortable cycling attire suitable for the weather conditions is recommended. Layers are always a good idea, especially in spring and fall, to adapt to temperature changes. Sun protection is important during warmer months, and a waterproof layer can be useful year-round.