Madison County Transit and Great Rivers Greenway say the MCT Confluence Trail and its extensions, which have been undergoing extensive repairs, are expected to be ready by mid-February. That will reopen the route for intrepid bicyclists to ride from St. Louis to the Great River Road past Alton and possibly as far as Pere Marquette State Park. So soon, you can get back to the Zen quality of this nearly 20-mile ribbon with the smooth ride, few turns and scenic views of the river and wetlands.