Ride from Machens to St Louis (arch)

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Jerry from Maine on 6/3/2014 12:59:03 PM:

Any advice on the best route from Machens to St Louis (arch)?

Hank on 6/3/2014 9:35:57 PM:

I would ride the back roads to the Grafton Ferry, cross the Mississippi, then ride to Alton on the Great River Road. From Alton take the Madison County bike trail system down to Chain of Rocks bridge, cross over the Mississippi to the St. Louis Riverfront Trail, then head south to the Arch. Probably not the most direct route but in my mind the best. You could also ride Highway 94 to cross the Alton bridge.

Jerry from Maine on 6/6/2014 2:08:32 AM:

Thank you. Great advice.

Hank on 6/6/2014 6:44:14 AM:

The Riverfront Trail ride in St. Louis is very urban and gritty. A different world. By all accounts generally quite safe (I wouldn't venture into the neighborhoods off the trail however) but it is not exactly "pretty." We have ridden about half of it and really enjoyed it but just a heads-up.

Pseudio on 6/6/2014 7:39:19 AM:

Hank is correct the Riverfront Trail is very urban, less fortunate people living close to the trail in shacks and cars. You get to cross the old Chain-of Rocks bridge over the Mississippi and then see the fabulous new Stan Musial bridge too. So pluses and minuses. I've ridden it from Alton to the Arch. It would be an adventure if you choose.

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