The best traffic-free bike rides around St. Louis

There are over 10 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around St. Louis featured in this guide, ranging from easy to more challenging. Most of these, specifically 10, are rated as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels.

The no traffic touring routes in St. Louis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.36 stars from 35 ratings. Reviewers often praise the extensive greenway network, the scenic riverfront views, and the well-maintained rail-trails that offer a peaceful cycling experience away from cars.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for no traffic bike touring in St. Louis, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can bring cold temperatures and snow, though many paved trails remain accessible year-round.

Absolutely! St. Louis is known for its family-friendly, car-free options. The region's flat to gently rolling terrain, especially along converted rail-trails like Grant's Trail and sections of the Great Rivers Greenway, makes it ideal for families. Many routes within Forest Park are also suitable for all ages.

Yes, St. Louis is a gateway to some impressive long-distance, no traffic trails. The most notable is the Katy Trail State Park, the longest continuous recreational rail-trail in the country, stretching 240 miles across Missouri. While not entirely within St. Louis city limits, it's easily accessible and offers an extensive car-free touring experience. For more information, you can visit Wikipedia or VisitMO.

Yes, there are several excellent loop options for no traffic touring cycling. For example, you can enjoy the Bike loop from Missouri Botanical Garden, which offers a pleasant ride. Another popular choice is the Grand Drive – Forest Park loop from Delmar Loop, providing a longer circuit through one of the city's most iconic parks.

Most no traffic touring routes in St. Louis feature flat to gently rolling terrain, particularly along the riverfronts and converted rail-trails. Surfaces are typically crushed limestone or paved, offering a smooth ride. Some routes, especially those venturing into parks like Castlewood State Park, might include slight inclines or bluffs, but the routes in this guide are generally easy.

Many routes offer scenic views and access to attractions. You can cycle past the iconic Gateway Arch, explore the vast Forest Park with its lakes like Post-Dispatch Lake and Emerson Grand Basin, or cross the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. The Tower Grove Park – Missouri Botanical Garden loop from Cortex, for instance, connects two beautiful urban green spaces.

Yes, St. Louis's MetroLink light rail system and MetroBus network offer options for reaching various trailheads, especially for routes within the city. Many routes, particularly those in Forest Park or near the downtown area, are well-connected to public transport, allowing for easy access without a car.

Parking is generally available at major trailheads and parks throughout St. Louis. For routes within large urban parks like Forest Park, there are numerous parking lots. For trails like the Katy Trail, many of the small towns along its length offer dedicated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details for the most convenient parking options.

While popular routes like those in Forest Park can see significant use, exploring sections of the Great Rivers Greenway system or venturing slightly outside the immediate urban core can offer a quieter experience. The vastness of the Katy Trail also means you can often find less crowded stretches, especially on weekdays or further from major access points.