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Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop

Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop

Moderate

4.9

(4442)

5,385

riders

Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop

Q: What is the terrain and surface like on the 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.

Q: Is the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop suitable for road bikes?

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.

Q: Where can I park to access the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop?

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.

Q: Are there any permits or fees required to use the Katy Trail State Park sections of this route?

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.

Q: What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

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.

Q: Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest on the loop?

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.

Q: What is the best time of year to cycle the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop?

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.

Q: Is the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop dog-friendly?

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.

Q: How difficult is the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop for cycling?

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.

Q: Does this route connect with other trails?

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.

03:53

54.6km

220m

Road cycling

Embark on the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop, a moderate road cycling adventure spanning 33.9 miles (54.6 km) with 705 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in 3 hours and 52 minutes. This route offers a diverse ride, taking you through hardwood forests and along creek-side boardwalks. You will enjoy open views of the Missouri River, especially as you pass by the Historic Bridge. The varied surfaces and changing scenery make for an engaging journey.

Before you set out, be aware that while much of the Busch Greenway is paved and the Katy Trail is crushed limestone, the Hamburg Trail section consists of crushed gravel. If you are on a pure road bike, you might want to consider a bike with wider tires or plan an alternative route for that segment. A convenient self-service bike repair station is available at the Missouri Research Park trailhead, should you need it.

This loop takes you through significant natural conservation areas, including the August A. Busch Conservation Area. Here, you might spot local wildlife and wildflowers, depending on the season. You will also pass by Klondike Park, which features interesting natural and man-made elements like the Klondike Park Quarry, adding unique points of interest to your ride.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

The surface along some of this route may not be suitable

Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.

After 7.83 km for 17.1 km

After 29.7 km for 17.1 km

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

16.2 km

Historic Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

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.

Tip by

18.8 km

Defiance

Highlight • Settlement

Defiance is a small town situated along Highway 94 and the Katy Trail. Serving as a gateway to the Missouri wine country, whether you're beginning, ending, or simply taking a break along the trail, you'll discover charming bars, cafes, and a handful of shops in this quaint town.

Tip by

26.4 km

Klondike Park

Highlight • Natural

Klondike Park, nestled alongside the Missouri River near Katy Trail State Park, was a former silica sand quarry, now restored by St. Charles County Parks. Enjoy stunning views of the Missouri River from its bluffs.

The park offers numerous camping sites and is known for its powdery white silica sand, once used for glass production. The Lewis and Clark Expedition also passed through this area.

Tip by

26.9 km

Klondike Park Quarry

Highlight • Natural Monument

This quarry was once a silica sand quarry and has transformed into a natural oasis. What sets this park apart is the presence of powdery white silica sand, previously extracted for glass production, visible throughout the area.

Tip by

54.6 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

33.4 km

14.7 km

3.49 km

2.87 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

32.9 km

15.4 km

3.20 km

2.57 km

553 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Thursday 16 July

32°C

23°C

-- %

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain and surface like on the 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.

Is the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop suitable for road bikes?

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.

Where can I park to access the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop?

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.

Are there any permits or fees required to use the Katy Trail State Park sections of this route?

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.

What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?

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.

Are there any notable landmarks or points of interest on the loop?

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.

What is the best time of year to cycle the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop?

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.

Is the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop dog-friendly?

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.

How difficult is the Katy Trail and Busch Greenway Loop for cycling?

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.

Does this route connect with other trails?

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.