Cycling around Belleville and southwest IL? Check out these 5 metro-east bike trails
If you’re hoping to spend time outdoors this summer while catching a breeze, these Belleville-area bike trails might be just the thing for you.
Upgrades to the streamlined MetroBikeLink Trail are in the works, and there are loops and other shorter treks in the area, too.
Here’s where to cruise this summer, including routes at Eckert’s Farm, Fairview Heights, O’Fallon and Swansea. Many designated bike trails are multi-use and can be explored by hikers and runners, as well.
MetroBikeLink Trail
The MetroBikeLink Trail is southwest Illinois’ primary avenue of cycling routes, with 14 miles of continuous trails connecting communities from Shiloh to Fairview Heights.
Funding for an additional 1.7 miles was approved by the St. Clair County Transit District this spring, and a transit release said the path will span from Illinois Route 161 in Belleville to Frank Scott Parkway in Fairview Heights. The upgrade will provide more than 2,000 Fairview Heights and Swansea homes with access to the main trail, the release continued.
Officials said the project should take about a year to complete.
Saint Clair County Orchard Loop Trail
This farmland trail is about 4 miles long and made of asphalt. Feel free to walk or inline skate here, too. Although the loop isn’t too long, you can continue on to farther destinations if you’re so inclined.
The route connects Eckert’s Family Farm to the St. Clair County MetroBikeLink trail. You can take that connecting route all the way to Fairview Heights MetroLink Station or even to Scott Air Force Base.
Enjoy views of orchards and fields while you pedal across the metro-east. Parking is typically available at Eckert’s Trailhead.
Eckert’s Farm parking: 951 S Green Mt Road, Belleville, IL 62220
St. Ellen Mine Trail
This 2.4-mile loop is designed for road biking, walking and running. The asphalt-paved trail is typically at least 4 feet wide, according to AllTrails, and there are at least four accessible parking spaces nearby.
The most accessible part of the trail for wheelchair users is up until the 1-mile mark, the website continues, because it gets steeper near the middle of the route.
This trail offers shade and benches for bikers and other trekkers to use for breaks.
Location: St. Ellen Mine Park Walking Trail, O’Fallon, IL 62208
Hesse Trail
This shorter option connects O’Fallon’s Hesse Park with local neighborhoods. The route runs about 0.7 miles long and is made of asphalt. It’s also a great place to walk, run or rollerblade.
Hesse Park has a playground, pickleball court and grills. If you’re planning an outdoor event, you can rent pavilions there between March 1 and Oct. 31.
Location: 810 N Madison St., O’Fallon, IL 62269
Richland Creek Greenway Trail
At just under 7 miles long, this foliage-full route is a popular Belleville biking spot. You’re welcome to bike, walk or run, and you can enjoy wildflower views while getting in some fresh air.
The trail is considered “easy” due to its flat nature, and there’s plenty of shade from the woods to guard from the possibly scorching summer coming up.
This story was originally published June 10, 2022 at 11:52 AM.
