The best road cycling routes around Marthasville

Marthasville offers a mix of road cycling experiences. You'll find routes that traverse the flat, crushed limestone path of the Katy Trail State Park, as well as more challenging options through rolling hills and scenic Missouri River bluffs. The area includes routes through agricultural lands, historic towns, and vineyards, catering to various skill levels.

While many routes in the immediate area feature significant elevation changes, the Katy Trail State Park, accessible from Marthasville, offers a relatively flat and easy ride on a well-maintained crushed limestone path. This makes it an excellent option for beginners or those seeking a less strenuous cycling experience.

Experienced riders looking for a challenge can explore routes with considerable elevation gain. For instance, the Matson Hill Park Trailhead – Augusta loop from Hughes Lake Dam is a difficult 72-mile route with nearly 1000 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Bums Cave loop from Marthasville, a difficult 48-mile path exploring varied terrain.

Yes, there are several loop routes available. The Old Highway 100 loop from Washington is a moderate 27-mile option, and the Innisfree Lake – Whippoorwill Lake loop from Brandi Lake offers a moderate 50-mile ride. These routes allow you to start and end in the same location, providing a convenient cycling experience.

The region is rich in scenic beauty. You'll cycle alongside the Missouri River, offering stunning river bluffs and natural vistas. The area is also part of Missouri's Weinstrasse (Wine Road), meaning you'll pass through picturesque vineyards and charming historic towns like Augusta. Klondike Park, with its beautiful views of the Missouri River, is another notable natural feature.

Absolutely. Augusta, America's first designated wine region, is a popular stop along the Katy Trail, featuring wineries, a brewery, restaurants, and shops. The historic Peers Store, located along the Katy Trail and Missouri River, offers seasonal refreshments. You might also encounter local vineyards like Lake Creek Winery and Lost Creek Vineyard.

Marthasville serves as a significant trailhead for the Katy Trail, providing amenities such as parking for trail users. Many routes also have designated parking areas at their starting points, such as the Matson Hill Park Trailhead or other local parks.

Marthasville and the surrounding area offer various accommodations catering to cyclists. Options include the Happy Apples Bicycle Bunk House, other rental properties, and camping facilities at places like Community Club Park, which provides showers for overnight stays.

Yes, you'll find several options. Marthasville itself has food establishments like Philly's Pizza. Along the Katy Trail, towns like Augusta offer numerous cafes, restaurants, and wineries. The historic Peers Store also provides seasonal refreshments and sometimes live music, making for pleasant stops during your ride.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Marthasville, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to start rides early to avoid the midday heat. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

For more details on local attractions and community information, you can visit the official Marthasville municipal website: marthasvillemo.gov.

The Katy Trail State Park is highly popular due to its well-maintained, crushed limestone surface, which provides a smooth ride. Its relatively flat profile with minimal elevation changes makes it accessible for all fitness levels. Cyclists enjoy scenic stretches along the Missouri River, historic sites, and charming towns that dot the trail.