The best cycling routes in Callaway County

Callaway County offers a selection of touring cycling routes, with over 10 options available for exploration. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult.

Yes, Callaway County features several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. One such option is the Jaycee Park Lake loop from CrossRoad Marketplace, an 11.7-mile trail that can be completed in just over an hour.

The terrain in Callaway County is generally flat to gently rolling, especially along the Katy Trail, which is built on a former rail corridor. You'll encounter diverse landscapes including river bluffs, expansive farmlands, and wooded sections, offering varied scenery throughout your ride.

Many routes in Callaway County, particularly sections of the Katy Trail, are ideal for families due to their relatively flat and car-free nature. The Jaycee Park Lake loop from CrossRoad Marketplace is another excellent easy option suitable for a family outing.

Callaway County's routes often parallel the Missouri River, offering scenic views of the 'Big Muddy' and its towering limestone bluffs. You might also pass through quaint Midwestern towns, agricultural fields, and forested areas. The region is home to natural features like Prairie Garden Trust and Little Dixie Lake Conservation Area, providing opportunities to connect with nature.

Yes, several touring cycling routes in Callaway County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bike loop from North Jefferson and the Hartsburg – Boathenge loop from Hartsburg.

Parking is generally available at various trailheads, especially along the Katy Trail. Within Callaway County, you can find access points and parking in towns like Tebbetts, Mokane, and Portland, which are situated along the Missouri River.

The spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Callaway County. The weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery, from blooming wildflowers to vibrant autumn foliage, is particularly beautiful. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.

The Katy Trail State Park, a major cycling artery in Callaway County, is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash. Always ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

Yes, the towns along the Katy Trail and other routes in Callaway County offer various amenities. You can find options for lodging, dining, cafes, and pubs in towns like Fulton, Tebbetts, Mokane, and Portland, making it convenient for multi-day tours or day trips.

Bike rental services are available in and around Callaway County, particularly in towns that serve as popular access points for the Katy Trail. It's advisable to check with local bike shops or tourism offices in advance for availability and reservations.

The touring cycling routes in Callaway County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the scenic beauty of the Missouri River and its bluffs, the peacefulness of the farmlands, and the well-maintained, car-free sections of trails like the Katy Trail.

For cyclists seeking a more challenging ride, Callaway County does offer routes with greater distances and elevation changes. The MKT Trail – Big Burr Oak Tree loop from Ashland, at 72.9 miles, and the Hartsburg – Mokane loop from Earthquake Hollow Conservation Area, at 80.5 miles, are examples of routes rated as difficult, providing a more strenuous touring experience.