Excelsior Springs is now a focal point for several national bicycle trails. This change brings an exciting opportunity for both avid cyclists and the local economy.
The recent rerouting of the Lewis & Clark Route, a well-known cycling path, now includes Excelsior Springs instead of Lawson. Despite initial concerns about the change getting overlooked, confirmation has come through that Excelsior Springs is firmly on the route. The revised route, available on RideWithGPS, showcases the town’s commitment to embracing the cycling community.
Moreover, Excelsior Springs forms a critical part of the new Adventure Cycling Association Route, known as the Eastern Express. This route is a shortcut variation of the popular TransAmerica Trail, attracting cyclists looking for new challenges and experiences. The Eastern Express route, detailed on the Adventure Cycling Association’s website, underscores the town’s growing prominence in national cycling routes.
In addition to these two major routes, USBR 51 is set to pass directly through Excelsior Springs, specifically along Broadway. This development is expected to further enhance the town’s visibility among national and international cyclists.
Excelsior Springs is also promoting a unique loop route that connects the Lewis & Clark Route, the Eastern Express, and USBR 51. This loop, encompassing Lexington, Independence, Liberty, and Excelsior Springs, offers a comprehensive cycling experience through some of Missouri’s most scenic areas. Detailed on RideWithGPS, this loop is seen as a potential magnet for increasing ridership across all routes.
Nate Williams, Director of Excelsior Springs Parks and Recreation and Community Center, expressed enthusiasm about the development. “Having these national bike trails come through Excelsior Springs will not only put our area on the map within the cycling community but will also help stimulate our local economy,” he said.
The integration of Excelsior Springs into these national routes is expected to bring a significant boost to local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, as cyclists from across the country and beyond visit the town. This influx of visitors is anticipated to create a vibrant, dynamic atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for cycling.
Local authorities and businesses are gearing up to welcome the increased traffic, with plans to enhance services to cater to the needs of cyclists. The town is also exploring marketing and public relations strategies to promote these routes and maximize their potential impact on the area.
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Is the trail going through Excelsior going to be a dedicated trail for bikes only? I know too many people who have been injured or killed while bicycling on our roads in this country due to the car drivers not watching the road.
Hello, Debbie. Thanks so much for asking. The trail will not be a dedicated bicycle trail. We probably should have phrased them as a route instead of a trail. We are sorry for any confusion. There is discussion about making trails dedicated for bicycles, but there’s nothing currently being developed. They’ve talked about how to connect it to the Katy Trail.