The best traffic-free bike rides in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offer a blend of natural beauty and historical features. The park is characterized by maturing old-growth forests, rocky hills, and sheltered valleys, providing a diverse landscape for cyclists. A notable paved bicycle trail within the park connects to broader cycling networks like the Monarch Levee Trail, which further links to the Katy Trail. These routes primarily feature paved surfaces, with some sections presenting moderate elevation changes.
Best…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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10.1km
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160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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(2)
33
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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22
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
Tips from the Community
Known locally as “Devil’s Boot Cave,” this natural overhang carved in sandstone resembles the shape of a boot and stretches roughly 25 feet deep and wide, near Marthasville. Once used as a pioneer shelter and noted by local schools for nature trips, the site offers a little geological curiosity beside the trail—a hands-on reminder of Missouri’s limestone landscape and early frontier life. Great for a quick stop and photo op!
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This is a paved trail that runs on top of the Levee that protects the Chesterfield Valley from the flood waters of the Missouri River. It is well-used and you can expect to encounter other cyclists, runners, in line skaters, and folks just out for a walk. The Monarch Levee Trail is linked to the World Famous KATY Trail via a separated bike lane on the Interstate 64 bridge across the Missouri River. There are plenty of parking areas along the trail length. I chose the trail head parking off of the Centaur Road. Expect to see wildlife such as foxes, turkey, deer, raccoons, and other critters mainly on the river side of the trail. On the Valley side is an airport, outlet mall, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. If you are looking for a peaceful serene ride this is NOT it. On a historical note, this levee was built after the devastating floods of 1993. This levee is nearly twice as high as the original levee. If you can imagine when you are looking out over the valley, the airport and all the buildings there, that in 1993 there was nearly 20 feet of water covering all of it! Rescue personnel used the interstate, which crosses the valley, as a boat ramp. All in all this is a well maintained wide trail that you will enjoy riding.
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During a recent ride on the Monarch Levee Trail, I wanted to explore Howell Island. The map shows that there is a road/trail there HOWEVER, it is gone. The once low water crossing has been entirely removed and replaced with huge stone "rip rap" in its place. So if you are really wanting to see howell island then you will have to cross this large stone rip rap. You will need good hiking shoes and you will need to be very nimble to cross this area. Sorry no pictures, my camera did not save the pictures I "thought" I took of the area.
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The Monarch Trail does not go all the way around the Chesterfield Valley unfortunately. It ends towards the East end of the valley right next to the Top Golf Facility. Beyond this point, it is private property. The Komoot Map shows the roads here as private, which is very true. They have no trespassing signs everywhere.
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Had to include this very unusual find. I am assuming that this was a family cemetery and when the new levee, on top of which this bike trail runs, was built it must been over the old cemetery. So they relocated the cemetery to the top of the levee. These are very old, dating back to the 1890's. Be respectful and do not desecrate this place.
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One of 3 major highway bridges over the Missouri between Weldon and St Charles, MO. The KATY trail through here is as smooth as concrete and the scenery is beautiful!
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Greensfelder County Park has about 30 miles of trails that are accessible for mountain biking. The most popular loop is a challenging ride of with steep climbs and rock gardens with a good balance of flow along the Dogwood, Declue, Greenrock and Eagle Valley trails.
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Here you will reach a historic iron bridge that spans over Femme Osage Creek just before entering Defiance. This is a particularly significant part of the Katy Trail, adding to its historical charm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park?
Yes, the park features a notable 1.7-mile paved bicycle trail that is free of vehicle traffic. This trail winds from the campground to the central part of the park, offering a peaceful cycling experience. Beyond the park, the Monarch Levee Trail, accessible from the park's vicinity, also provides extensive paved, no-traffic riding opportunities.
What kind of terrain and landscapes can I expect on the no-traffic cycling routes?
The park's internal paved trail offers a mix of gentle and some steeper sections, winding through maturing old-growth forests with towering oaks and maples. You'll encounter rocky hills, narrow coves, and deep sheltered valleys. The Monarch Levee Trail, accessible nearby, is mostly flat as it runs atop a levee, offering open views of the surrounding landscape.
Are the no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for families with children?
Yes, the 1.7-mile paved bicycle trail within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is considered easy and is well-suited for families. For a longer, easy, and mostly flat option, consider the Monarch Levee Trail – Chesterfield Settlers Cemetery loop from Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking, which is also paved and traffic-free.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling routes in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park?
While dogs are generally welcome in Missouri State Parks on a leash, specific regulations for cycling trails can vary. It's best to check the official park guidelines directly or contact the park office regarding their current policy for dogs on the paved bicycle trail to ensure a smooth visit. Many cyclists use trailers for their dogs on paved paths.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to look out for along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Along the park's paved bicycle trail, you can discover a tunnel built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s and Crystal Spring, one of the park's continuously flowing springs. The park also features numerous other CCC structures, a life-size bronze statue of Dr. Edmund A. Babler, and diverse wildlife in its old-growth forests and glades.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park?
Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for touring cycling in the park. The weather is milder, and the natural beauty is at its peak with spring blooms or vibrant fall foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter may bring cold temperatures and potential for ice or snow on trails.
Are there any permits or fees required to cycle the no-traffic routes?
Generally, there are no specific permits or fees required for cycling on the paved bicycle trail within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park. Missouri State Parks typically offer free access. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Missouri State Parks website or contact the park directly for any updated regulations or special event requirements.
Where can I park my car when visiting Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park for cycling?
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers various parking areas. For access to the paved bicycle trail, parking near the campground or the central part of the park would be convenient. If you plan to access the Monarch Levee Trail, there are dedicated parking lots like the Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking area.
How do the no-traffic routes in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park connect to other major cycling trails?
While the park's internal paved trail is self-contained, the nearby Monarch Levee Trail is easily accessible and provides excellent connectivity. It links to the famous Katy Trail via a separate bike lane on the Interstate 64 bridge, allowing for significantly extended, traffic-free touring cycling adventures. Consider the Monarch Levee Trail – Katy Trail loop from Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking for a longer ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the paved trails, the beautiful old-growth forests, and the sense of escape from city life. The accessibility to longer, flat, traffic-free routes like the Monarch Levee Trail is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park for a post-ride refreshment?
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is located near Wildwood, Missouri, which offers a variety of dining options. While there aren't cafes directly within the park, you'll find several choices for refreshments and meals just a short drive away in Wildwood and the surrounding communities.
Are there any beginner-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. The 1.7-mile paved bicycle trail within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is rated as easy and is perfect for beginners. Additionally, the Monarch Levee Trail – Chesterfield Settlers Cemetery loop from Monarch-Chesterfield Levee Trail Parking offers a longer, easy, and mostly flat paved experience ideal for those new to touring cycling.
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