2 replies to this topic

[gregm]

Just that. My training plan keeps calling for long, easy rides and I'm having some issues figuring that out. So what are our flowiest trails? Bonus points if St Charles county doesn't close it if it rained in the past 30 days or looks like it might rain sometime in the next two weeks.

 

If I have to keep riding Bootlegger or Broemmelsiek I will but Broemmelsiek is closed all the time and I would like just a little variety.

[The Krackheads]

Flow with mileage?  I would say Greensfelder Park-Declue-Fossil Ridge-Buelah. You are going to get your moneys worth of climbing but the payback is pretty good especially riding Declue CW from the cell tower towards 6 Flags. 

[Craig]

Just that. My training plan keeps calling for long, easy rides and I'm having some issues figuring that out. So what are our flowiest trails? Bonus points if St Charles county doesn't close it if it rained in the past 30 days or looks like it might rain sometime in the next two weeks.

 

If I have to keep riding Bootlegger or Broemmelsiek I will but Broemmelsiek is closed all the time and I would like just a little variety.

By flowy trails, are you looking for IMBA's definition (terrain-induced roller coaster experience, with little pedaling and braking necessary), or more of a twisty, engaging trail that doesn't have climbs that make your eyes bleed? 

 

Depending on how far you want to travel, consider the following if you're after the latter;

• ICCP (https://gorctrails.c...dian-camp-creek).  SCCP's property, so subject to trail closures this time of year related to freeze/thaw, rain, etc.  Also, the 8ish mile race loop only has ~400' of climbing per lap.  The sections along the Big Creek are basically flood plain (flat), but expect random sand deposits after each flash flood.
• Cliff Cave (https://gorctrails.c...ails/cliff-cave) - especially the Spring Valley side.  Bonus of 5+ miles of paved trails within the Park, so you have options if it's too wet to ride.
• SIUE (https://gorctrails.c...ils/siue-trails).  Minimal elevation change, next to zero rocks, and lots of twisty's to keep things fun.  Also intersects the MCT Trails (https://www.mcttrails.org/)*, giving you another option if things are wet.

* The MCT Trails are old railroad beds - think Katy Trail, with no steep climbs - but are paved.  Some sections leave you quite exposed to the elements, so plan ahead if it's a windy day.