Saint Albans Lake

The Manchester Road – Centennial Greenway loop from Clayton offers a dynamic road cycling experience, blending the dedicated paths of the Centennial Greenway with the urban environment of Manchester Road. You'll start by enjoying the flat, paved sections of the Centennial Greenway, passing through green spaces and offering views of the Clayton skyline, especially around Shaw Park. The route then transitions to urban roads, where you'll need to be comfortable navigating traffic, even with recent infrastructure improvements like protected bike lanes in some areas.

This difficult 85.4-mile (137.4 km) loop involves a substantial 3972 feet (1211 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 6 hours and 31 minutes to complete. Given the length and urban sections, it's best suited for experienced road cyclists. Consider starting early in the day to avoid peak traffic on Manchester Road, and always check for local road conditions and any construction updates.

The Centennial Greenway is notable for its connectivity, linking communities like Clayton, University City, and Ladue, and providing accessible pathways within an urban setting. Its name, "Centennial," even commemorates the route of the 1904 Olympic marathon held in St. Louis. This loop offers a unique way to explore the region's blend of natural and urban landscapes, connecting parks, businesses, and neighborhoods.