The best walks and hikes around St. Louis

Several parks in the St. Louis area are highly regarded by local hikers. Castlewood State Park is a major favorite, known for its challenging trails and stunning bluff views over the Meramec River. For something different, Cliff Cave County Park offers trails around a large limestone cave and along the river. If you're looking for a walk that combines nature and art, the Laumeier Sculpture Park Trail Head provides a unique experience.

Yes, St. Louis has many options for families. The Tower Grove Park loop is an excellent choice. It's a relatively short, easy walk through a beautiful Victorian park with plenty of open space for kids to enjoy.

Most state and county parks in the St. Louis area, such as Castlewood State Park and Bee Tree County Park, allow dogs on trails as long as they are on a leash. However, rules can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the specific park's regulations before you go. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet.

For impressive views, Castlewood State Park is your best bet. The trails that climb the bluffs offer panoramic vistas of the Meramec River valley. Another great spot is Bee Tree County Park, where you can find scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River from the bluffs near the historic Nims Mansion.

While the immediate St. Louis area isn't known for large waterfalls, you can find them with a bit of a drive. For a truly rewarding experience, consider a trip to Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, where Jackson Falls offers beautiful cascades. Closer to the city, some smaller creeks and shut-ins in parks like Don Robinson State Park can create small, scenic water features after a good rain.

The terrain around St. Louis is typically characterized by rolling hills, steep river bluffs, and forested valleys rather than mountains. You'll find plenty of elevation changes on trails in places like Castlewood State Park, which can be quite rugged and challenging. For the highest point in Missouri, you would need to travel to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park, which is a few hours south of the city.

For a relaxed and scenic day hike, consider the Tour of St Louis Downtown Citygarden. This easy 3-mile (5 km) walk takes you through an urban sculpture park and offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and green space right in the heart of the city.

There are over 50 hiking routes to explore in and around St. Louis. The selection ranges from easy paved paths in urban parks to more moderate, rugged trails along the river bluffs, offering plenty of options for all skill levels.

Yes, many of the popular trails in the area are loops, making logistics simple. For example, the Gateway Arch loop to Michael W. Martin Memorial Park is a circular route that allows you to start and end in the same place without needing to retrace your steps.

Absolutely. Winter can be a great time to hike in St. Louis, as the bare trees often open up views that are hidden during the summer. Trails in parks like Forest Park and Castlewood State Park remain accessible, though they can be muddy or icy. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear with good grip.

Most state and county parks, like Castlewood and Cliff Cave, are best accessed by car and have dedicated parking areas. For trails within the city, such as those in Forest Park, you'll find numerous parking lots, though they can get busy on weekends. Some urban trails may be accessible via public transport, but for most of the natural parks, a car is recommended.

The trails around St. Louis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the surprising variety of the landscape, from the rugged bluffs along the Meramec River to the peaceful, well-maintained paths in the region's expansive urban parks.