The best walks and hikes around Saint John

The McDonnell Trail offers a delightful, easygoing experience through the James S. McDonnell Memorial County Park in St. Ann, Missouri. This paved loop winds gently through forested sections and open parkland, providing a pleasant backdrop for a leisurely walk. You'll find yourself passing by playgrounds and following a tranquil creek, making it a serene escape within an urban setting.

Accessing the trail is simple, with ample parking available directly at the park. As a family-friendly route, it's well-suited for all ages and abilities, and you'll appreciate the convenience of accessible paths and on-site restrooms. Given its short 34-minute duration, it's an ideal choice for a quick, refreshing outing at any time of day.

This 1.4-mile (2.2 km) hiking route, with its minimal 50 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy nature without a strenuous effort. The park itself is named in honor of James S. McDonnell, founder of McDonnell Douglas, adding a touch of local history to your walk. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed family stroll or a gentle introduction to hiking.

The Wheels and Heels Path loop in St. Louis's Forest Park offers a unique experience with its dual-path system: a soft gravel "Heels Path" for walkers and a paved "Wheels Path" for cyclists. This 6.3-mile (10.2 km) route provides diverse scenery, from passing the Saint Louis Zoo and Science Center to winding through wooded areas and alongside streams and lakes like Jefferson Lake. With 154 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, it's a moderately challenging hike that takes about 2 hours and 37 minutes, perfect for a substantial urban stroll.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is open year-round. While parking is available, arriving early, especially on weekends, is advisable due to the park's popularity. Public transport also serves Forest Park, offering convenient access. Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great option for pet owners looking for a longer walk.

This trail is notable for providing a comprehensive overview of Forest Park's natural beauty and attractions, allowing you to observe local wildflowers and wildlife. Its design caters to different user speeds, ensuring a pleasant experience for both hikers and cyclists. It's a fantastic way to explore one of St. Louis's premier green spaces and its many features.

The Ruth Park Nature Trail offers a serene escape into a 26-acre oak/hickory hardwood forest, providing a refreshing natural experience right in University City. This easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) loop trail, covered in crushed limestone, winds through dense tree cover, making it a pleasant walk for just under an hour. You'll encounter interpretive tree markers along the way, offering insights into the local flora, and the gentle terrain includes two minor ascents that add a subtle variation to your stroll.

Planning your visit to this urban oasis is straightforward; the trail is easily accessible within Ruth Park Woods. It's an ideal choice for a family-friendly outing or for beginners looking for a relaxing hike, taking approximately 57 minutes to complete. For the best experience, consider visiting during spring or fall, especially if you're keen on birdwatching, as the trail becomes a bustling stopover for migratory species.

This trail is particularly significant as it preserves one of the last large stands of oak/hickory forest in the St. Louis area, serving as a critical habitat for nearly a hundred different bird species. The Green Center actively works to maintain this urban forest, ensuring its health and continued role as a vital resting place for birds along the Mississippi Flyway. It's a testament to local conservation efforts, offering a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a metropolitan setting.

If you're looking for an accessible and family-friendly outing in St. Louis County, the Centennial Greenway and Shaw Park Loop delivers. This easy 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hiking route, with a minimal 100 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through the varied landscapes of Shaw Park, past its themed gardens and open green spaces, before extending into a more urban setting. Expect a pleasant 1 hour and 45 minutes on mostly paved, flat terrain, making it ideal for a relaxed walk or a quick run.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available directly within Shaw Park, where you'll also find restrooms and drinking fountains. The trail is dog-friendly, provided your furry friend is on a leash, and its easy nature makes it suitable for all seasons. Consider an early morning or late afternoon start to enjoy the best light and potentially fewer people on the path.

This segment of the Centennial Greenway is notable for its connectivity, linking communities and providing a valuable recreational and commuter corridor. Historically, a portion of the greenway follows the route of the 1904 Olympic marathon, giving it a unique connection to the past. It's a great option for those seeking a gentle outdoor experience with convenient amenities and a touch of local history.