Biking in STL

2005. That was definitely the year of my last bike ride. That was also the same year that I decided to start working towards getting my driving permit and driver’s license. Once I got those, it was good-bye bicycle and hello Ford Focus. Now that it is eleven years later, I want to get back in the hang of biking. Now mind you, it has been yeeeaaarrrrssss since I have ridden a bike so this is going to be an interesting experience for me. It will definitely be adventurous, but it will also get me physically active. I see a WIN-WIN opportunity. Before I set out on this biking expedition, I definitely want to weigh my options as far as bike trails go. 

Although St. Louis has many trails, I decided to narrow it down to three. I have heard the most about these, and I do plan to take my bicycling talents to one of them this week. I just need to practice riding around my block a few times first, LOL!  

The first bike trail that I want to tell you about is the Carondelet Park and Holly Hills Bike route. It is located at Loughborough Ave and Leona St. The trail stretches approximately two miles. While riding there you might want to go take a look at the boathouse, rec center, pool or even the outdoor sporting areas. Next there is the 8-mile- long Grant Trail. The location of this biking trail is in close proximity to Anheusher Busch Grant’s Farm and the Ulysses S. Grant historical site. This would be a great opportunity to ride for a while and then enjoy some of the attractions that are nearby.  Last but not least, we have the River de Peres Greenway Trail. This trail is located between Germania St. and Interstate 55; Landsdowne Ave and River de Peres Blvd. What’s great about this trail is that once you pass Holly Hills drive you can actually turn on it, and it will take you to Carondelet Park, which just happens to be the first trail that I mentioned. Killing two birds with one stone doesn’t sound bad at all.

So now that we have an idea of where we are going. I want to provide you with some simple yet vital tips that will get you right back into biking mode.

1. Stay hydrated- pack a few bottles of water with you.
2. Establish resting points - take a look at a map of the trail.
3. Invite your friends- this means more fun of course!
4. Pack Snacks - fruits & veggies are always the way to go!
5. DON’T OVER EXHAUST YOURSELF- take your time & enjoy the experience.

Well, that’s all that I have for you. I’m looking forward to biking at one of these trails. I am definitely going around sunset when it isn’t so hot!

Written by Alayna Sibert, Graduate Student in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Saint Louis University
Reviewed by Nutrition Services