The best road cycling routes around Glendale

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.

The Kirkwood Train Station – Woods Avenue Scenic Road loop is a demanding road cycling adventure that will test your limits. You'll navigate a varied terrain, with mostly well-paved surfaces giving way to some potentially unpaved and difficult segments, especially along the scenic Woods Avenue section. The route's significant elevation gain means you'll be tackling numerous climbs, making it a true test of endurance and strength for experienced riders.

To begin this challenging ride, head to the Kirkwood Train Station, which offers public transport access for cyclists. Be aware that the Amtrak station does not provide parking, so you'll need to arrange alternative parking nearby or arrive by other means. Given the route's length and difficulty, ensure you carry plenty of water and snacks, and check your bike thoroughly before setting out.

This loop stands out as one of the more challenging road cycling routes in the Kirkwood area, specifically designed for highly fit individuals. Unlike easier multi-use paths like Grant's Trail, this route offers a substantial physical challenge with its 65.3 miles (105.1 km) distance and 3695 feet (1126 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 4 hours and 54 minutes to complete. It's a notable option for those seeking a rigorous workout and diverse scenery.

The Kirkwood Train Station – Marshall Road climb loop from Kirkwood offers a substantial road cycling experience through the St. Louis County suburbs. Starting from the historic Kirkwood Train Station, you'll cover 37.4 miles (60.3 km) with 1814 feet (553 metres) of elevation gain, providing a consistent workout over an estimated 2 hours and 42 minutes. This moderate route is ideal for road cyclists looking for a longer ride with rolling terrain rather than dramatic mountain ascents, offering a good test of endurance.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with the Kirkwood Train Station acting as a central hub for parking and potential public transport connections. While the route is generally accessible, it's wise to consider traffic patterns in the suburban areas, especially during weekdays. Spring and fall are often the best seasons for comfortable cycling temperatures, but the route is rideable year-round, weather permitting.

This route's primary appeal lies in its accessibility from Kirkwood and its ability to deliver a solid road cycling workout within the St. Louis metropolitan area. It connects you to the local cycling scene, offering a taste of the region's varied terrain without requiring a long drive to a trailhead. The Kirkwood Train Station itself, a historic landmark, adds a touch of local character to your starting point.