Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm
Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm
Road cycling
5.0
(7)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm, also known as the Gravois Greenway, is a popular paved, mixed-use trail spanning approximately 10 miles through south and southwest St. Louis County, Missouri. This accessible pathway, built on a historic "rails-to-trails" corridor, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and significant historical landmarks, making it a standout destination in the St. Louis metropolitan area. It connects several communities, including Kirkwood, Oakland, and Crestwood, before meeting the River des Peres Greenway.
Cyclists and walkers consistently praise Grant's Trail as one of the best bike trails in the St. Louis area, particularly for its smooth, flat terrain and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors frequently highlight the ease of access and the well-maintained conditions, making it ideal for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The trail's ability to combine outdoor activity with historical exploration is a major draw for many.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that the trail is entirely paved with asphalt, ensuring a comfortable experience for biking, walking, or running. Numerous access points and ample parking are available along its length, making it convenient to start your journey. The trail is generally well-trafficked, especially on pleasant days, so planning an early morning or late afternoon visit can offer a more serene experience. Restrooms and drinking water facilities are also provided at various points.
The best time of year to cycle Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the surrounding foliage is vibrant. Summer mornings and evenings are also pleasant, though midday can be warm. This trail is perfect for family friendly cycling, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for children and adults alike. It's an excellent choice for those wondering, "Is Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm good for beginners?" The flat profile ensures an easy ride.
A highlight of the journey is the opportunity to visit Grant's Farm, the ancestral home of the Busch family, where you can see the famous Clydesdale horses and the log cabin built by Ulysses S. Grant. Cyclists often recommend taking a moment to "stop and smell the horses" at Grant's Farm. The trail also provides access to the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (White Haven) and the historic Sappington House, offering rich historical context to your outdoor adventure.
Beyond the historical sites, the trail winds through diverse natural features, including wooded areas along Gravois Creek, open fields, and a scenic boardwalk over a wetland. These varied landscapes provide pleasant viewpoints along Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm, allowing for a refreshing escape into nature within the urban fringe. The connection to the River des Peres Greenway further extends cycling routes for those seeking longer rides.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride, a historical tour, or a family outing, Grant's Trail offers a variety of experiences. You can explore Grant's Trail cycling routes and plan your visit using komoot, which provides detailed maps and information on the best access points and points of interest. With its easy terrain and numerous amenities, it's an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in St. Louis County.
Tips
February 13, 2024
Road cycling
November 2, 2024
Road cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Grant's Trail at Grant's Farm
4.5
(4)
72
riders
35.8km
01:33
160m
160m
The Gravois Greenway and River des Peres Greenway Loop offers a delightful road cycling experience, weaving through a mix of tree-lined paths and urban landscapes. You'll find yourself cruising along paved surfaces, passing by marsh restoration areas and a scenic boardwalk through wetlands, where you might spot ducks and geese. This easy 22.3-mile (35.8 km) route, with only 525 feet (160 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely ride, taking about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete.
Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail boasts excellent amenities at its various trailheads, including restrooms, water fountains, and bike pumps. The route is easily accessible, with connections to MetroLink stations for public transport users. While the trail is generally open year-round, consider cycling during the cooler months of spring or autumn for the most pleasant conditions.
This combined loop is a significant part of the Great Rivers Greenway network, notable for its seamless connection completed in 2020, making it the longest continuous ADA-accessible route in the system. Beyond the ride itself, you can access points of interest like Grant's Farm directly from the Gravois Greenway, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure.
42
riders
53.3km
02:16
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
56
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.62 km
Uphill 10 m
Downhill 0 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 16 June
28°C
14°C
27 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key historical landmarks and natural features along Grant's Trail?
Grant's Trail offers a rich blend of history and nature. You can visit Grant's Farm, the ancestral home of the Busch family, and see the famous Clydesdale horses and Ulysses S. Grant's log cabin. The trail also provides access to the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (White Haven) and the historic Sappington House. Naturally, the trail winds through wooded areas along Gravois Creek, open fields, and features a scenic boardwalk over a wetland, providing diverse viewpoints and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Is Grant's Trail suitable for beginners or families with young children?
Absolutely! Grant's Trail is renowned for being very beginner and family-friendly. It is entirely paved with asphalt and mostly flat, making it ideal for cyclists, walkers, and runners of all skill levels, including those with strollers or young children learning to ride. Its smooth surface and gentle gradient ensure a comfortable and safe experience for everyone.
Are dogs allowed on Grant's Trail?
Yes, Grant's Trail is generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome to accompany their owners on the trail. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions like Grant's Farm, it's advisable to check their individual pet policies, as they may have restrictions for animals entering certain areas.
How long is Grant's Trail and are there options for shorter or longer rides?
Grant's Trail, also known as the Gravois Greenway, spans approximately 9.9 to 11.47 miles one way. Since it's not a loop, you can choose to ride any segment for a shorter out-and-back experience. For longer rides, the trail connects directly to the River des Peres Greenway, which allows cyclists to extend their journey significantly and explore more of St. Louis.
What are the parking options and access points for Grant's Trail?
There are numerous access points and ample parking areas along the entire length of Grant's Trail. Popular starting points include trailheads near Holmes Avenue in Kirkwood, and various parks like Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park (formerly Clydesdale Park). Parking can fill up quickly on pleasant days, especially weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is often recommended.
Are there any cafes or dining options near Grant's Trail?
While the trail itself is primarily for recreation, there are various cafes, restaurants, and pubs in the communities it passes through, such as Kirkwood, Oakland, and Crestwood. Many cyclists and walkers enjoy stopping in these nearby towns for refreshments or a meal. It's a good idea to check local listings for options closest to your chosen access point.
What are the typical trail conditions and terrain like on Grant's Trail?
Grant's Trail is known for its excellent conditions. It is entirely paved with asphalt, ensuring a smooth surface suitable for road bikes, hybrids, and even inline skates. The terrain is predominantly flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels and providing a comfortable ride without significant climbs or descents. It is well-maintained year-round.
Are there any permits or fees required to use Grant's Trail?
No, there are no permits or fees required to access or use Grant's Trail. It is a public greenway, freely accessible to cyclists, walkers, and runners. However, specific attractions along the trail, such as Grant's Farm, may have their own admission policies or fees, though access to Grant's Farm is often free if arriving by bike or foot.
How crowded does Grant's Trail get, especially on weekends or during peak season?
Grant's Trail is a very popular destination, so it can get quite crowded, particularly on pleasant weekend mornings and during the spring and fall seasons. If you prefer a more serene experience, consider visiting on weekday mornings or later in the afternoon. Evenings can also be less busy, offering a peaceful ride or walk.
What kind of wildlife or natural scenery can I expect to see along the trail?
The trail offers a pleasant mix of natural scenery, including wooded areas along Gravois Creek, open fields, and a wetland boardwalk. You might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife common to urban green spaces. The changing foliage throughout the seasons also provides beautiful natural backdrops for your activity.
Is public transport available to access Grant's Trail?
While direct public transport access to every trailhead might be limited, some sections of Grant's Trail are within reasonable proximity to MetroBus stops in St. Louis County. It's best to check the specific route maps for MetroBus to find the closest stops to your desired access point on the trail.