The best walks and hikes in St. Clair County

Yes, the area is well-suited for families. Most trails are rated as easy and follow paved greenways or paths through city parks. A great option is the Tour of St Louis Downtown Citygarden — Gateway Arch National Park, which is a relatively short walk through an area with plenty of open space and attractions.

The majority of trails in and around St. Clair County are paved. You'll primarily find asphalt or concrete greenways, especially along the Mississippi and River Des Peres, making them accessible for walking, jogging, and they are generally suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

Yes, there are several loop trails. These are perfect if you prefer to end your hike where you started without backtracking. For a route that explores a significant historical area, consider the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site loop — Collinsville. Another good choice is the Dennis Schick Trail loop — Jefferson Barracks County Park.

Most of the park trails and greenways in the St. Clair County area are dog-friendly, but your dog must be kept on a leash at all times. Parks like Jefferson Barracks County Park and the various greenways are popular spots for walking with canine companions. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

You can explore over 50 hiking routes in and around St. Clair County. The vast majority of these are easy, paved trails suitable for all skill levels, with a smaller number of moderate routes available for those seeking a longer walk.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often appreciate the well-maintained paved paths and the scenic views along the riverfronts, particularly within Gateway Arch National Park.

Absolutely. The region is ideal for beginners, with about 40 easy trails to choose from. A great starting point is the Mississippi River Greenway from Jefferson Barracks County Park, which offers a flat, scenic walk along the river.

For iconic city and river views, the trails within Gateway Arch National Park are unmatched. The Jefferson National Expansion Memorial loop provides fantastic perspectives of the Arch and the Mississippi River.

Yes, if you're looking for a longer outing, the River Des Peres Greenway to River Des Peres Park is a great choice. It's a moderate route stretching over 9 miles (14.5 km) along a paved path, offering a substantial urban hike.

Yes, some routes are designed to be combined. For example, you can connect two popular paths in Jefferson Barracks County Park with the Dennis Schick Trail loop and Mississippi River Greenway hike, creating a varied experience of over 6 miles (9.9 km).

The terrain is generally flat with very little elevation change. Hikes primarily follow paved urban greenways and park paths along the Mississippi and River Des Peres. This makes for easy, accessible walking without any strenuous climbs.