St. Louis, Missouri, is a bustling city with rich history and cultural attractions and a gateway to numerous beautiful hiking trails. These trails offer scenic views, diverse landscapes, and opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, the trails in and around St. Louis have something to offer. From the urban parks to the rolling hills and forests in the surrounding areas, here are the ten best hiking trails you should explore.
Forest Park – St. Louis
- Forest Park is a massive urban park that offers a variety of trails, each providing a different perspective of the park’s lush landscapes and historic sites. The dual-loop trails around the Grand Basin and Art Hill are particularly popular, offering stunning views and a serene environment. The park also houses the St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, and Science Center, making it a fantastic spot for a day of adventure.
- Forest Park
- Castlewood State Park – Ballwin
- Known for its rugged terrain and scenic views of the Meramec River, Castlewood State Park is a favorite among hikers and mountain bikers. The River Scene Trail is especially popular, offering breathtaking vistas from the bluffs. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide various wildlife habitats, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts. You can download the trail information and map for each trail below for easy access. Please click this link for additional details about trails in Missouri State Parks.
- Castlewood State Park
- Laumeier Sculpture Park – Sunset Hills
- Combining art and nature, Laumeier Sculpture Park features over 60 large-scale sculptures across 105 acres. The park’s trails meander through open fields and wooded areas, providing a unique hiking experience that blends the visual arts with the natural environment. It’s a perfect destination for those who enjoy a leisurely walk while appreciating contemporary art.
- Laumeier Sculpture Park
- Katy Trail State Park – Defiance
- The Katy Trail is a 240-mile-long rail-trail that stretches across Missouri, with a significant portion accessible from the St. Louis area. This trail follows the path of the Missouri River, offering picturesque views and various trail surfaces. It’s perfect for long-distance hikers, cyclists, and those looking for a scenic walk through small towns and countryside landscapes. You can download the trail information and map for each trail below for your convenience. To learn more about Missouri State Parks’ trails, click this link.
- Katy Trail State Park
- Shaw Nature Reserve – Gray Summit
- Located about 30 miles southwest of St. Louis, Shaw Nature Reserve offers 18 miles of hiking trails through prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and glades. The Wildflower Trail is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer months when a variety of native flowers are in bloom. This reserve is an ideal spot for botany enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Shaw Nature Reserve
- Queeny Park – Ballwin
- Queeny Park is a spacious suburban park that offers several miles of well-maintained trails through forests and meadows. The Hawk Ridge Trail is a favorite, providing a mix of paved and natural surfaces with gentle elevation changes. The park also features fishing lakes, equestrian trails, and picnic areas, making it a versatile destination for outdoor activities.
- Queeny Park
- Rockwoods Reservation – Wildwood
- This 1,843-acre conservation area offers a variety of trails that traverse rugged terrain, including limestone bluffs and dense forests. The Lime Kiln Trail is notable for its historical lime kiln and scenic beauty. Rockwoods Reservation provides a peaceful retreat into nature with plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Rockwoods Reservation
- Lone Elk Park – Valley Park
- As its name suggests, Lone Elk Park is known for its elk and bison herds that roam freely within the park. The White Bison Trail offers a 3.2-mile loop that takes hikers through wooded areas and pastures where these magnificent animals can often be seen. The park also includes scenic overlooks and a lake, making it a diverse hiking destination.
- Lone Elk Park
- Hawn State Park – Ste. Genevieve
- Although a bit of a drive from St. Louis, Hawn State Park is well worth the trip for its pristine wilderness and challenging trails. The Whispering Pines Trail is highly regarded, offering 10 miles of rugged terrain, scenic creek crossings, and dense pine forests. It’s a paradise for serious hikers looking for a backcountry experience.
- Hawn State Park
- Greensfelder County Park – Wildwood
- Adjacent to Rockwoods Reservation, Greensfelder County Park offers a variety of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The DeClue Trail is a favorite, featuring rolling hills, dense forests, and beautiful vistas. The park’s extensive trail system makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Greensfelder County Park
Hiking Trails in and Around St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis offers diverse hiking opportunities, from urban parks and art-filled landscapes to rugged state parks and serene nature reserves. Each trail provides a unique experience, allowing you to explore the area’s natural beauty and history. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, these top ten trails will surely offer something for every outdoor enthusiast. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the best hiking trails in St. Louis’s great outdoors.
