There's a buzz among hiking and bicycling groups about the newly opened length of trail at Matson Hill Park in St. Charles County. It's being described as an off-road bicyclist's dream.

Where • St. Charles County. Missouri 94 to Defiance; northwest on Defiance Road; 1.1 miles to Howell Road; left 1/10 of a mile to Matson Hill Road; right 1.2 miles to the park.

How long • The hiking-biking trial has stretched from a 2 3/4-mile double loop to about 5 miles.

Surface • Natural.

Can be used for • Hiking, off-road bicycling.

Description • Members of Gateway Off-Road Bicyclists have worked on the new trail for years to make it longer and more challenging. The new, flowing trails include some harsh turns, steep hills, slick creeks and large rock formations.

Users notes • Another 0.7 of a mile was added as recently as June and the plan is for 10 to 14 miles of bicycle trail. The park closes when it's muddy. Wear a helmet, spills are common. Carry lots of water. The county and GORC maps aren't updated yet online.

Can be used for • Hiking, bicycling.

Dogs • On leash.

Wheelchair-accessible • No.

Parking and facilities • A gravel lot trailhead off Matson Hill Road has a restroom.

More info • Call 636-949-7535 or visit alturl.com/tomk or for GORC, alturl.com/xsh2 .