Where to Go in West Saint Louis County for the Best Mountain Biking Trails

Almost every native St. Louisan who rides a bike knows about the Katy Trail, a 264 mile biking trail that was converted from an old railroad line. But if you are tired of flat, and I mean flat terrain, ho-hum scenery, and let's face it, a little too much of a tourist mecca for an avid cyclist, you need to look for some other places to find that perfect ride.

Queeny Park

Runners know it for it's almost five miles of hills, flats, tumbling pastures followed by picturesque meadows. Cyclists will love it for the same reason. Only, instead of whizzing by the picnic tables on your way to find that perfect balance between endurance and speed, stop and enjoy lunch by the pond. You'll meet anglers as well as bird lovers and even some corporate folks enjoying their annual company function by the lake. Queeny Park may not be the longest journey you've ever taken on your bike, but I guarantee, it will be one ride you will do again and again.

Castlewood State Park

Talk about hills!! This place has got 'em, and some spectacular views as well. It's wooded and secluded enough to feel like you've "gotten away from it all," but close enough to the major highways to make this an easy drive on a Sunday afternoon. It features eight trails ranging from 1.5 to 7 miles long. Just grab your bikes and go. But watch out for runners, walkers and horseback riders! This place is popular on the weekends.

Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park

You can ride 11 miles around this 320 acre lake and you won't get tired because it is completely flat! But that's ok, because you have the lovely boats to look at. Just pay attention to those signs. And follow the shapes. Each trail is marked by a different shape or symbol. If you follow the same symbol throughout your trek, you won't get lost. (I have!) At the entrance to the park, there is a big sign giving you a map of the trails and the corresponding symbols. And when you've finished riding, you can enjoy a snack at the new boat house!