The best cycling routes around Grantwood Village

There are nearly 30 touring cycling routes available around Grantwood Village, offering a variety of options for different preferences and skill levels.

The majority of touring cycling routes in Grantwood Village are rated as easy, with 17 routes falling into this category. There are also 9 moderate routes and a few more difficult options for experienced cyclists.

You can expect predominantly paved multi-use trails, including the well-maintained Grant's Trail. Routes often feature mature tree-lined paths, green spaces, and connections to regional greenways that may offer woodlands and river views, such as along the Meramec River with its limestone bluffs.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park – Grant's Trail loop from Concord is an easy 9.8-mile option, and the River Des Peres Park – Deer Creek Greenway loop from St. George offers a moderate 21.3-mile ride.

Cyclists can enjoy diverse scenery, including the expansive grounds of Grant's Farm, where you might spot the world-famous Clydesdales. The "Old Grantwood" area features a Bird Sanctuary along Grantwood Lane, bordering Grant's Trail. Routes also connect to greenways like the River des Peres Greenway and the Meramec Greenway Trail – Eastern Section, offering views of woodlands and river corridors.

Yes, the area is rich in history. Grant's Trail passes by Grant's Farm, a historic estate once owned by Ulysses S. Grant. The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site (White Haven) is also located within Grantwood Village, preserving the 19th-century farm where Grant lived, offering interesting landmarks to observe.

Yes, the wider St. Louis County area, which includes Grantwood Village, is recognized as a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community. This designation reflects the presence of over 500 miles of shared-use pathways, including the extensive network accessible from Grantwood Village.

Many routes, particularly those on Grant's Trail, are ideal for families. The trail is paved, relatively flat, and well-maintained, making it suitable for various fitness levels and younger riders. The Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park – Grant's Trail loop from Crestwood is an easy 7.3-mile option that leads through suburban green spaces, perfect for a family outing.

While specific regulations can vary, multi-use trails like Grant's Trail generally permit dogs on leashes. It's always recommended to check local signage for any specific restrictions on individual sections or parks.

The spring and fall seasons typically offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling, with moderate temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to cycle earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may vary depending on snow and ice.

Parking is available at various access points along Grant's Trail and other connected greenways. For example, routes like the Grant's Trail – Grant's Trail loop from Concord often have designated parking areas nearby, making it convenient to start your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved trails, the peaceful green surroundings, and the accessibility to historical sites like Grant's Farm, making for a pleasant and engaging cycling experience.

Yes, Grant's Trail connects to broader networks like the Meramec Greenway Trail and the Deer Creek Greenway, allowing for longer and more varied rides. For instance, the Forest Park – River des Peres Greenway loop from Concord is a moderate 33.7-mile route that extends into a wider regional network.