Katy Trail

This moderate 39.8 miles (64.0 km) racebike route combines the varied surfaces and scenery of the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop. You will cover 745 feet (227 metres) of elevation gain over approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes, offering a diverse ride. The Katy Trail section features a largely flat, crushed limestone path winding through river bluffs, forests, and open fields. As you transition to the Creve Coeur Lake Loop, the surface becomes paved, providing scenic views of the lake itself and its surrounding marshlands. You'll also cross the Veterans Memorial Bridge, a notable point on this popular St. Louis area ride.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Katy Trail's crushed limestone surface can become soft after rain, so check conditions before you go. For the most comfortable experience, consider riding in spring or autumn to enjoy mild temperatures or vibrant fall foliage. You will find restrooms and water fountains conveniently located within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. Ample parking is typically available at the trailheads for both the Katy Trail and Creve Coeur Lake Loop, making access straightforward.

This route stands out for its unique combination of two distinct cycling environments near St. Louis. You get the expansive, natural feel of the Katy Trail, a former railroad corridor, paired with the more contained, scenic loop around Creve Coeur Lake. The trail offers a chance to experience both riverine landscapes and tranquil lake views, showcasing the diverse outdoor opportunities in the region. It is a popular choice for cyclists looking for a substantial ride with varied terrain and points of interest.

The Katy Trail and Weldon Spring Loop offers a dynamic road cycling experience, blending the famously flat, crushed limestone surface of the Katy Trail with the more rugged, hilly terrain of the Weldon Spring Conservation Area. You'll enjoy peaceful stretches alongside the Missouri River, passing through forests and wetlands, before encountering the challenging gravel and dirt paths that wind through ridgetops and bottomlands, offering diverse scenery and potential wildlife sightings.

This moderate 31.0-mile (49.9 km) route, with an elevation gain of 773 feet (236 metres) and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 47 minutes, is best tackled by road cyclists with tires 25mm or wider to handle the varied surfaces. The Weldon Spring Conservation Area provides direct access to the Katy Trail, making it a convenient starting point for this unique blend of rail-trail and natural area cycling.

What makes this loop stand out is its ability to showcase a wide range of Missouri landscapes in a single ride, from the tranquil river views to the dramatic bluffs within the conservation area. It's a great option for cyclists looking to test their versatility and enjoy both the ease of a rail-trail and the challenge of more undulating terrain, offering a comprehensive tour of the region's natural beauty.

Embark on the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop for a diverse road cycling experience that showcases Missouri's varied landscapes. You'll pedal along the historic Katy Trail, enjoying long stretches beside the Missouri River, with towering bluffs and lush forests as your backdrop. The route then transitions to the Busch Greenway, where paved paths wind through hardwood forests, open fields, and past a tranquil reservoir, even featuring a scenic boardwalk. This moderate 54.6-mile (87.9 km) loop, with 1608 feet (490 metres) of elevation gain, offers a mix of flat rail-trail and gently rolling hills, making for an engaging ride that typically takes around 4 hours and 6 minutes.

When planning your visit, be mindful of the Katy Trail's crushed limestone surface; while suitable for road bikes with wider tires, it can be softer after rain or dusty in dry conditions. The Busch Greenway, in contrast, is largely paved, offering a smoother ride. A great starting point is the Missouri Research Park trailhead, which conveniently provides a self-service bike repair station. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for this ride, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, from wildflowers to vibrant fall foliage.

This loop connects two significant cycling pathways, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical context. The Katy Trail is renowned as the longest continuous rail-trail in the United States, preserving a piece of Missouri's past with historic markers and old depots. The Busch Greenway serves as a vital connector, linking the Katy Trail to the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and access to important natural areas. It's a fantastic way to explore the St. Charles area's top-rated road cycling loops.