St. Louis Cycling Events 2026: Rides, Races, and Charity Tours

St. Louis's cycling event calendar fills up fast each year, with charity rides, gravel events, races, and community tours that welcome every level of rider. Here's a look at the kinds of events to plan for in 2026 and how to get the most out of the season.

Spring Charity Rides

Spring kicks off with the Tour de Cure and Bike MS events, drawing thousands of riders for fully supported century and metric-century distances. These are perfect first events for newer riders, with rest stops, sag support, and a festive atmosphere.

Gravel Events

Gravel racing has exploded in Missouri, with events ranging from friendly 30-mile rides to rugged 100-mile adventures through the Missouri River hills. The Augusta area hosts several, pairing tough riding with wine-country scenery. Register early — popular gravel events sell out.

Crit and Road Races

St. Louis has an active criterium scene through the summer, with weekly twilight crits downtown and regional race weekends. For new racers, category 5 and beginner fields offer a safe introduction to competitive riding.

Mountain Bike Events

Midwest mountain bike series races visit St. Louis-area trails including Castlewood and Weldon Spring. Endurance events and festival weekends combine racing with community socials and demo days.

Community and Family Rides

Trailnet and local clubs host free community rides throughout the season, from historic neighborhood tours to night rides and family-friendly greenway cruises. These are low-pressure ways to explore St. Louis by bike with experienced ride leaders.

Training for Events

Build base miles through the winter and spring, then add event-specific intensity as your target ride approaches. Most charity centuries are very rideable with a few months of consistent weekly mileage. For gravel and racing events, add skills practice and group riding experience.

Registration and Logistics

Many St. Louis events open registration in winter and fill by spring. Bookmark the Trailnet calendar and the major event websites, and set registration reminders for the events you want. Book hotels early for out-of-town events.

From your first charity 25-miler to a rugged gravel hundred, the 2026 St. Louis cycling calendar has an event that will fit your goals and your season.