Riverfront Tail trailhead

The Mississippi River Trail: St. Louis Loop offers a fascinating road cycling adventure, weaving together the city's industrial past with stunning natural riverfront vistas. You'll pedal past the vibrant "Mural Mile" and through areas showcasing wetlands and native flora, all while enjoying unparalleled views of the Mississippi River and the iconic Gateway Arch. This moderate 43.9 miles (70.6 km) route, with its 655 feet (200 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete, providing a rich, varied experience for cyclists.

Planning your ride on this popular St. Louis Mississippi River Trail cycling route is straightforward, as it's largely paved and accessible. While mostly smooth, be ready for a few challenging hills and some short unpaved sections that add to its moderate rating. The trail connects across the Mississippi River via the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and the McKinley Bridge, linking to other trail systems like the Madison County Transit trails, making it easy to extend your ride.

This loop is steeped in history, incorporating segments of historic Route 66 and passing by the Historic Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing, Missouri's first nationally designated Underground Railroad site. Beyond the historical significance, the route offers unique features like the striking "graffiti wall" and opportunities to observe wildlife in the wetlands. It's a fantastic way to explore St. Louis's diverse character, from its urban core to its natural riverine edges.

The Forest Park – Grand Drive loop from Forsyth offers a delightful road cycling experience, winding through abundant trees and expansive lawns. You'll pedal past the tranquil Boathouse Lake and the Norman K. Probstein Golf Course, with views of iconic St. Louis landmarks like the Saint Louis Zoo and the Saint Louis Art Museum. This moderate route covers 43.6 miles (70.2 km) with 971 feet (296 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete, making it a rewarding ride for those seeking a mix of nature and urban scenery.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route primarily uses well-paved surfaces and dedicated cycling paths like the "Wheels Path" within Forest Park. While the paths are generally smooth, some sections may have degraded with cracks, so be mindful of conditions. The Dual Recreational Pathway has a recommended speed limit of 15 mph or less for wheeled users, ensuring a shared-use environment. This loop is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the park is fully accessible.

Forest Park itself is a significant historical site, having hosted the 1904 World's Fair, and spans an impressive 1,400 acres. Beyond the cycling route, the park is home to major attractions such as the Missouri History Museum and the St. Louis Science Center, offering plenty to explore. Many Forest Park Grand Drive loop cycling reviews highlight the park's beauty and the convenience of its dedicated paths for a comprehensive urban cycling adventure.