The best walks and hikes around Chesterfield

The Woodbine Trail to Dogwood Loop offers a delightful journey through the rich woodlands of Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park. You'll traverse varied terrain, from the gentler slopes of the Woodbine Trail, where you can spot sweet gum trees and a historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) tunnel, to the more rugged Dogwood Loop with its steep sections. Keep an eye out for Crystal Spring, one of the park's continuously flowing springs, and enjoy the vibrant display of wildflowers and flowering trees, especially in spring.

This moderate 7.0-mile (11.2 km) hike, with 780 feet (238 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 9 minutes to complete. It's an ideal half-day outing for those seeking a diverse forest experience. The trail is particularly renowned for its spectacular spring wildflowers and brilliant fall foliage, so consider visiting during these times for the best scenic rewards. Parking is available within Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.

What makes this route stand out is its ability to combine two distinct loops, offering a comprehensive exploration of the park's natural beauty and different forest habitats. The Dogwood Trail portion, with its chert rock exposures and diverse plant life like pawpaw and trillium, provides a glimpse into the park's unique ecology. This trail is a fantastic way to experience the seasonal transformations of a Missouri forest.

Hike the easy 1.0-mile Longview Farm Park Full Loop in Town and Country, MO, featuring a scenic lake, forest, and horse pastures.

The Katy Trail offers a wonderfully accessible hiking experience, tracing a historic rail-trail that hugs the Missouri River for much of its length. You'll find yourself immersed in diverse scenery, from the tranquil flow of the river to towering bluffs and dense woodlands, all on a mostly flat, crushed limestone path. This particular section provides a taste of the trail's charm, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

Planning your visit to the Katy Trail is straightforward, with many access points and 26 trailheads along its full 240-mile span. Parking is generally available at trailheads like Pittman Hill, making it easy to start your hike. The trail's gentle terrain means it's suitable for all ages and abilities, and you'll find amenities in the charming small towns it passes through, though it's always wise to carry water, especially on warmer days.

Beyond its scenic appeal, the Katy Trail holds significant historical importance as the longest developed rail-trail in the United States, built on the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad corridor. A substantial portion is even part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, offering a unique connection to American history. It's a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings, making it a popular route for both local and visiting hikers.

The Boones Crossing Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a diverse floodplain environment, perfect for a quick nature fix. This 1.2-mile (1.9 km) loop features a natural surface path with only 5 feet (2 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for all abilities and typically completed in just 28 minutes. You'll wander past a serene lake, traverse a low levee, and explore a swampy area, all while keeping an eye out for various birds like cormorants and egrets, or even mink and otters.

To access the trail, head to West Parking lot #1 of the Chesterfield Athletic Complex, which is conveniently located off the paved Monarch Chesterfield Levee Trail. Restrooms are available nearby, just across the levee trail. The trail is open year-round for hiking only, but be mindful that its floodplain location means it can be muddy, and tick precautions are advisable.

As part of the Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge in Weldon Spring, Missouri, the Boones Crossing Trail plays a role in conserving local wildlife and habitats. Its varied environments, from lake views to swampy sections, offer unique opportunities for birdwatching and experiencing the region's natural beauty. It's a fantastic option for a peaceful, short outing that highlights the unique ecosystems of the Missouri River floodplain.