Historic Downtown St. Charles

Embark on a moderate road cycling adventure along the Katy Trail from St. Charles to Machens, covering 24.8 miles (39.9 km) with a gentle 149 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain. This route offers a relaxed ride, taking you through varied landscapes of forests, open fields, and towering bluffs alongside the Missouri River. You will experience shaded segments and open countryside, with opportunities to spot small lakes and enjoy panoramic views, especially near Klondike Park. Expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 44 minutes at a steady pace.

St. Charles serves as an excellent starting point for this section of the Katy Trail, providing easy access and various amenities to begin your ride. Before you head out, it is important to check trail conditions, particularly for the segment near Machens. This area is known to be susceptible to flooding due to its low elevation and close proximity to both the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, which could impact your ride.

This segment of the Katy Trail is part of the larger Katy Trail State Park, renowned for its crushed limestone surface that makes for a smooth road cycling experience. As you start in Historic Downtown St. Charles, you can see Frontier Park and its prominent Lewis and Clark statue, connecting you to a rich historical narrative. The trail's unique position following the Missouri River offers a distinct perspective on the region's natural beauty and historical significance.

Embark on the Boschert Greenway and Katy Trail Loop for a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 14.2 miles (22.8 km). You will gain 293 feet (89 metres) in elevation over an estimated 1 hour and 8 minutes. This route offers a varied experience, transitioning from paved greenway sections through New Town and past the lakes of Fox Hill Park, to the famous crushed limestone of the Katy Trail. As you cycle, you can enjoy elevated views of the Missouri River valley and spot the unique "Blomstre" sculpture.

When planning your visit, remember that both the Boschert Greenway and the Katy Trail are generally considered easy to moderate for cycling, making them suitable for many fitness levels. The Boschert Greenway is mostly paved, while the Katy Trail features hard-packed crushed limestone. While road bikes are generally fine, wider tires are often recommended for comfort on the Katy Trail, especially if the surface is sandy or mushy after rain. Parking is available at various access points along the route, making it easy to start your ride.

The Katy Trail section of this loop follows the Missouri River, offering picturesque views of majestic river bluffs, peaceful farmland, and thick forests. This part of the trail is a significant piece of Missouri's outdoor infrastructure, built on a former railroad corridor. The combination of urban greenway and historic rail-trail provides a unique blend of scenery and cycling surfaces, connecting you to Historic Downtown St. Charles along the way.

Cycle the moderate 54.6-mile Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop, featuring river views, wetlands, and forests in St. Charles County.