The best cycling routes around Parkdale
71
riders
3
rides
Touring cycling around Parkdale features routes primarily within state parks and along river greenways. The region is characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain, with routes often following established paths through wooded areas and open parkland. Many trails offer views of the Meramec River, providing a mix of natural scenery and accessible cycling. The area provides options for various skill levels, from easy, paved paths to more challenging routes with slight elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Parkdale
- The…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
9
riders
12.3km
00:49
10m
10m
The Route 66 State Park Outer Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible cycling experience, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll pedal along a varied surface of paved, gravel, and…
26
riders
12.6km
01:11
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
riders
20.6km
01:45
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
16.2km
00:55
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
6.89km
00:40
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The most popular trail in Castelwoood State Park! The trail is fun for intermendiate to advanced riders and a good learning opportunity for beginners. The first half of the trail is flowy hardpack which turns into a steep rooty downhill run and a rutted climb known as Cardiac Hill. Its also convenient to loop in the Roller Coaster and Lone Wolf trails as you go round this trail.
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The Riverscene Trail is the most popular trail in Castlewood State Park. The trail passes through a forest scene, a wide open are next to a beach area, and along the banks of a shaded river. The variety of scenery with pretty smooth terrain makes this loop trail a perfect choice for a lot of different occasions.
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This is a paved trail located in Route 66 State Park. A small portion of this trail near the parking lot actually sits on the famous Route 66. The trail is mostly flat and tree-lined, offering glimpses of the Meramec River and surrounding bluffs.
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The Grotpeter Trail is the most northern trail in the Castlewood State Park trail system. The twists and turns remind you of why so many mountain bikers love these trails, but they are perfect for a forest hike as well. The trails are pretty well-marked in this part of the park, and you'll have several options to branch off of this main trail onto some of the other shorter trails in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Parkdale?
Parkdale offers a selection of 6 touring cycling routes, ranging from easy to more challenging options. These routes primarily traverse state parks and follow river greenways, providing diverse scenery for cyclists.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Parkdale?
Yes, Parkdale is well-suited for beginners with 5 easy routes. A great option is the Route 66 State Park Outer Loop Trail, which is 7.7 miles (12.3 km) long and offers a smooth ride through the state park.
What are some longer touring cycling routes in Parkdale?
For a longer ride, consider the Grotpeter Trail – Riverscene Trail loop from Castlewood State Park. This route spans 10.2 miles (16.4 km) and features scenic views of the Meramec River and varied park landscapes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Parkdale?
Many of Parkdale's routes are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. The Castle Ruins loop from Castlewood State Park is a popular 5.5-mile (8.8 km) option that takes you through Castlewood State Park.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Parkdale?
The terrain in Parkdale is generally flat to gently rolling. Routes often follow established paths through wooded areas and open parkland, with many offering views of the Meramec River. You'll find a mix of natural scenery and accessible cycling.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy about cycling in Parkdale?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling in Parkdale, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails, the scenic river views, and the accessibility of routes within state parks.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer views of the Meramec River?
Yes, several routes provide excellent views of the Meramec River. The Grotpeter Trail – Views over the Meramec River loop from Castlewood State Park is an 8.4-mile (8.4 km) route specifically highlighted for its river vistas.
What attractions or points of interest can I find along the touring cycling routes in Parkdale?
Along the routes, you can explore various natural and recreational highlights. Keep an eye out for sections of the Meramec Greenway Trail – Eastern Section, the Lone Wolf Trail viewpoint, and the serene Forest 44 Conservation Area. The Grotpeter Trail and Riverscene Trail are also notable trails within the park system.
Are there any routes that combine different parks or greenways?
Yes, the Henry L. Simpson Park – Meramec Greenway Trail loop from Valley Park is a great example. This 6.7-mile (10.7 km) route connects Henry L. Simpson Park with the Meramec Greenway Trail, offering a varied cycling experience.
Is Parkdale suitable for family-friendly touring cycling?
Absolutely. The region's flat to gently rolling terrain and numerous easy, paved paths make it ideal for families. Routes within state parks often provide safe and enjoyable environments for cyclists of all ages.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Parkdale?
While specific data isn't provided, regions with state parks and river greenways like Parkdale are generally most pleasant for cycling in the spring and fall. These seasons offer milder temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, avoiding the heat of summer and potential winter conditions.
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