The best traffic-free bike rides in Unger County Park

Unger County Park offers a selection of over a dozen dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes are primarily part of the extensive Meramec Greenway system, providing safe and scenic rides away from vehicle traffic.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Unger County Park, particularly those along the Meramec Greenway, are predominantly flat and paved. This makes them suitable for cyclists of various skill levels, offering an easy and enjoyable ride through scenic landscapes.

Yes, many of the routes are ideal for families due to their flat, paved surfaces and car-free environment. For example, the Meramac Greenway Trail – Meramec Greenway Trail loop from Valley Park is an easy 7.6-mile (12.2 km) ride with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed family outing.

You'll experience a diverse range of natural beauty. Routes often run alongside the scenic Meramec River, offering views of its waters and surrounding wetlands. You'll also cycle through woodlands, restored prairies, and past limestone bluffs. The park itself features a lake, adding to the picturesque scenery.

Unger County Park provides designated parking areas for visitors. Additionally, many access points to the Meramec Greenway, which connects to Unger Park, offer parking facilities, making it convenient to start your no-traffic cycling adventure.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Unger County Park, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to ride in the mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, several loop routes are available, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. A popular option is the Meramec Greenway Path – Meramec River loop from Unger County Park, which covers approximately 11.6 miles (18.7 km) and offers lovely river views.

Absolutely. The Meramec Greenway system connects Unger County Park to several other St. Louis County Parks, such as George Winter Park, Fenton City Park, and Minnie HaHa Park. These connecting parks often offer additional amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, providing opportunities to extend your day out.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the well-maintained paved trails, and the beautiful natural scenery along the Meramec River, making for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

The duration varies depending on the route and your pace. Shorter, easy routes like the Meramac Greenway Trail – Meramec Greenway Trail loop from Valley Park can be completed in under an hour. Longer routes, such as the Kirkwood Train Station – Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm loop from Kirkwood, which is about 24.4 miles (39.3 km), might take around 1.5 to 2 hours.

While many routes are easy, you can combine sections of the Meramec Greenway or explore longer loops to create a more extended ride. For instance, the Kirkwood Train Station – Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm loop from Kirkwood offers a substantial 24.4-mile (39.3 km) ride on paved, traffic-free paths, providing a good workout for those looking for more distance.