Monarch-Chesterfield Levee and Babler Park Loop

The Monarch-Chesterfield Levee and Babler Park Loop is a substantial touring bicycle route, covering approximately 62.6 kilometers (38.9 miles). You should plan for a cycling duration of around 3 hours and 47 minutes, not including stops for rest or sightseeing.

Parts of this route are very beginner-friendly, particularly the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail, which is flat and smooth asphalt. However, the trails within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park can include steep grades greater than 10% on its paved sections, and some multi-use trails are unpaved with rolling hills, rock, and gravel. Cyclists should be prepared for varied conditions and some challenging sections, especially if connecting the two areas.

The terrain varies significantly. The Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail is characterized by its exceptionally flat and smooth asphalt surface. In contrast, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers a paved bicycle trail with some steep inclines, and other multi-use trails that are unpaved, featuring rolling hills, rock, and gravel surfaces.

For the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail, there is ample parking available, particularly in the Chesterfield Valley area. For Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, parking is available within the park, with the paved bicycle trail connecting the campground to the central part of the park.

On the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail, you'll see farm fields, timbered areas near the Missouri River, retail establishments, and views of the Spirit of St. Louis Airport. A notable feature is its connection to the Katy Trail State Park via a pedestrian and bike bridge. In Babler State Park, you'll cycle through old-growth woods, spot wildlife, and encounter charming features like tunnels built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), creek views, and natural springs like Crystal Spring. The park is also known for its CCC architecture.

It's important to understand that the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail and the trails within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park are not directly connected by a dedicated, off-road loop trail. While the levee trail offers excellent connectivity to the Katy Trail, Babler Park is several miles away. Completing a 'loop' that combines both systems will require navigating public roads to bridge the gap between them.

Given the lack of natural shade on many sections of the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail, spring and fall are generally the most comfortable seasons for cycling this route. During these times, temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot and sunny, while winter may present colder conditions.

While specific regulations for the entire combined route aren't provided, dogs are generally welcome on the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail. For Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, pets are typically allowed on trails but must be kept on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before visiting.

As a Missouri State Park, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park generally does not require an entrance fee for day use. However, specific activities like camping may require fees. It's always a good idea to check the official Missouri State Parks website for the most current information on regulations and any potential permits needed for specific activities.

While cycling through Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, you have a good chance of spotting deer, turkey, squirrels, and various birds, as it's described as a 'wooded oasis.' The Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail, being closer to developed areas, may offer fewer wildlife sightings, though birds are common.

Yes, the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail is a key part of an emerging trail system and connects to the Katy Trail State Park via a pedestrian and bike bridge over the Missouri River. The route also passes through sections of the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail, 66 (Missouri), Missouri Greenway, and Central Park Trail.