Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop

The loop offers varied surfaces. The Busch Greenway sections are predominantly paved, providing a smooth ride. The Katy Trail portions are primarily crushed limestone, which is generally hard-packed and suitable for road bikes with tires 25mm or wider. However, be aware that the Hamburg Trail section, an integral part of the loop, is made of crushed gravel and is not recommended for pure road bikes; mountain or hybrid bikes are better suited for this segment.

While much of the route, including the paved Busch Greenway and the crushed limestone Katy Trail sections, is suitable for road bikes (especially with wider tires), the Hamburg Trail portion is crushed gravel and challenging for typical road bike tires. Road cyclists should either use a bike with more robust tires or plan a detour to avoid this specific segment.

Easy access points are available, and a convenient place to start is the Missouri Research Park trailhead, which also offers a self-service bike repair station.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the Katy Trail State Park sections of this route. It is a public state park trail.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including hardwood forests, a creek with a boardwalk, and views through Missouri Research Park. The route connects to natural conservation areas like the August A. Busch Conservation Area and the Weldon Spring Site Conservation Area, offering opportunities to see wildlife and wildflowers in season. Portions of the Katy Trail also run along the Missouri River, with picturesque bluffs.

Yes, the loop features several points of interest. You'll pass by the Historic Bridge, the settlement of Defiance, and natural areas like Klondike Park and the Klondike Park Quarry. The Weldon Spring Site, a former nuclear weapons production facility, also has a public path and viewing platform near the intersection of the Busch Greenway and Hamburg Trail.

The loop can be enjoyed in various seasons. Summer offers vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Be mindful that crushed limestone sections can be dusty when dry and muddy when wet.

Yes, the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway are generally dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

The overall loop is considered easy to moderate. The Busch Greenway is mostly flat after an initial uphill section, and the Katy Trail is known for its gentle grades. However, the crushed gravel Hamburg Trail segment adds a challenging element, contributing to the moderate difficulty for some cyclists.

Yes, this route is a significant connector. It integrates sections of the Katy Trail, Busch Greenway, and Hamburg Trail. It also overlaps with other paths such as the ADT - Missouri - L - Seg 2, Lewis & Clark Trail, and Missouri Research Park Trail.