The best road cycling routes around Hanley Hills

The Hanley Hills area offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 60 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy, flat paths to more challenging rides with moderate elevation gains.

Road cycling routes around Hanley Hills feature diverse terrain. You'll find extensive paved greenways, urban paths, and scenic routes along river views. Some areas, particularly within state parks like Castlewood, offer rolling hills and more significant climbs, providing a good challenge for cyclists.

Yes, there are many easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Forest Park – The Grand Basin, Forest Park loop from Clayton is an easy 23.8-mile (38.3 km) trail with gentle climbs within the expansive Forest Park. Another accessible option is the Grand Drive – Forest Park loop from Clayton, which is shorter at 17.6 miles (28.3 km) and also features minimal elevation.

While many routes are gentle, the broader St. Louis County area, accessible from Hanley Hills, does offer routes with more significant climbs. Areas like Castlewood State Park, known for its dramatic bluffs, have roads that provide a good challenge for road cyclists seeking elevation. Routes such as the Ladue Road – Shaw Park loop from Wellston include varied scenery and moderate elevation changes, making them suitable for those looking for a bit more effort.

Many road cycling routes pass by or through significant landmarks and natural features. Forest Park, for example, is a major highlight with its old-growth forests, wetlands, and attractions like the Emerson Grand Basin and the Post-Dispatch Lake. You might also encounter the Footbridge over I-64 or the Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial on various routes.

Yes, many road cycling routes in the Hanley Hills area are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Forest Park – The Grand Basin, Forest Park loop from Clayton and the Shaw Park – Centennial Greenway loop from University City-Big Bend, which takes you through parklands and greenways.

While specific public transport connections to trailheads vary, the St. Louis metropolitan area has a public transit system that can help access some areas. For parking, many parks and greenway access points, such as those around Forest Park or Shaw Park, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed parking information.

The St. Louis region generally offers pleasant road cycling conditions during spring and fall, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and occasional snow, making spring and fall the most popular seasons for cycling.

Absolutely. The Hanley Hills area benefits from its proximity to St. Louis County's extensive greenway network. Greenways like the Fee Fee Greenway and Centennial Greenway connect to major trails, including Missouri's famous Katy Trail, the longest developed rail-trail in the country. This allows for extended rides and diverse scenery along the Missouri River.

Many routes, especially those passing through urban parks like Forest Park or connecting through developed areas, offer access to amenities. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and rest stops within or near these popular cycling destinations. Planning your route in advance can help identify specific points of interest for refreshments.

The road cycling routes around Hanley Hills are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 19 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained paved surfaces, the variety of scenery from urban parks to river views, and the accessibility of routes for different skill levels.

Beyond the well-known greenways, exploring routes that venture into areas like Columbia Bottom Conservation Area can offer a unique experience with views of the Missouri and Mississippi river confluence. While not always dedicated cycling paths, the roads within such conservation areas provide quiet, scenic rides away from urban bustle. Additionally, the Shaw Park – Big Shark Big Bend loop from Forsyth offers a pleasant, less-trafficked option.