The best road cycling routes around University City

There are nearly 90 road cycling routes around University City, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Yes, University City offers a good selection of routes for beginners, with 47 easy routes available. A great option to start with is the Forest Park – The Grand Basin, Forest Park loop from Clayton, which is 23.8 miles (38.3 km) and explores the expansive Forest Park.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 6 difficult routes around University City. One notable option is the Manchester Road – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop from University City-Big Bend, which is over 65 miles (105 km) long and features significant elevation changes.

Many routes in University City offer scenic views, particularly those that pass through urban parks and along greenways. The Forest Park – The Grand Basin, Forest Park loop from Clayton, for instance, provides beautiful vistas of the Grand Basin and the park's landscape.

Road cycling routes in University City feature a mix of urban parkland, suburban roads, and designated greenways. The terrain includes gentle undulations and some more significant climbs, providing varied experiences for different skill levels.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in University City are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the popular Ladue Road – Shaw Park loop from Wellston and the Shaw Park – Centennial Greenway loop from University City-Big Bend.

Many routes pass by notable attractions. For example, routes through Forest Park often feature sights like the Forest Park itself, the Post-Dispatch Lake, and the Emerson Grand Basin. The River des Peres Greenway is another popular cycling path with scenic views.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit for road cycling, many of the easier, flatter routes through parks and greenways are well-suited for families. The Shaw Park – Big Shark Big Bend loop from Forsyth is an easy option that could be enjoyable for families.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in University City, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential for ice, though many dedicated cyclists ride year-round.

Given the urban and suburban nature of many routes, it's common to find cafes and refreshment stops along or near the paths. Routes that traverse areas like Forest Park or connect through various neighborhoods will often have convenient access to amenities.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, the well-maintained greenway networks, and the accessibility of routes that combine urban parks with scenic suburban roads.

The distances of road cycling routes vary significantly. You can find shorter loops around 20-25 miles (32-40 km), such as the Forest Park – The Grand Basin, Forest Park loop from Clayton, up to much longer rides exceeding 60 miles (100 km), like the Manchester Road – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop from University City-Big Bend.