The best walks and hikes around Clayton
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Hiking around Clayton, Missouri, offers accessible routes through urban parks and along paved greenways. The area is characterized by relatively flat terrain, with trails often following creeks or connecting local parks like Shaw Park and Kaufman Park. These routes are suitable for walking and running, providing green spaces within the suburban landscape.
Best hiking trails around Clayton
- The most popular hiking route is Wheels and Heels Path loop — Gateway Arch National Park, a 6.3 mile (10.2 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 37 minutes to complete. This moderate path provides views of the iconic Gateway Arch and the surrounding parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Shaw Park loop via Centennial Greenway — Clayton, Missouri, an easy 4.3 mile (6.9 km) path. The route follows a paved greenway and loops through the city's main park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Ruth Park Nature Trail from Kaufman Park, a 2.3 mile (3.7 km) trail leading through local parkland, often completed in about 57 minutes.
- Hiking around Clayton is defined by paved greenways, urban park trails, and riverside paths. The network provides options primarily for easy and moderate ability levels, suitable for family outings.
- The routes in Clayton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from a number of reviews. More than 290 hikers have used komoot to explore Clayton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4
hikers
4.35km
01:08
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.29km
01:08
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
3.34km
00:52
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
9.35km
02:26
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
932m
00:14
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Clayton
Tips from the Community
Forest Park is a huge recreational park in the heart of St. Louis. The park is perfect for relaxing, biking, golfing, and exploring the various cultural offerings at the Museum of History, St. Louis Zoo, Art Museum, or Planetarium. It's also easily accessible by metro.
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The cannon was cast in Valencia in the 17th century and was used in the American-Spanish Civil War. The cannon fell into the hands of American troops at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and was donated to the city of St. Louis in 1900. It has been on display in Forest Park ever since.
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The bike lanes here are wonderful. The connectors could be improved though!
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Forest Park in St. Louis is a sprawling urban park spanning 1,371 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. It offers a wide range of attractions, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Missouri History Museum.
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The Emerson Grand Basin in St. Louis is a stunning water feature located in Forest Park. Spanning over 7 acres, it serves as both a picturesque gathering place and a recreational area for visitors to enjoy.
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Forest Park, with 1,326 acres, is considered one of the premier urban public parks in the US. It features beautiful landscapes sprinkled with forests, ecosystems, nature reserves, and lakes and streams. It als contains cultural institutions including the St Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, and Muny Opera.
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Forest Park, with 1,326 acres, is considered one of the premier urban public parks in the US. It features beautiful landscapes sprinkled with forests, ecosystems, nature reserves, and lakes and streams. It also contains cultural institutions including the St Louis Zoo, Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Science Center, and Muny Opera.
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Emerson Gran Basin is a manmade lake in front of the Saint Louis Art Museum. The architecture of the museum, the square, and the lake with water fountains make it a beautiful romantic scenery. Forest Park has a nice trail network and is a great place for a run.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Clayton, MO suitable for families with children?
Yes, the area is very family-friendly. Most trails are paved greenways through local parks, making them ideal for walkers of all ages. A great option is the Shaw Park loop via Centennial Greenway, which is an easy and accessible path.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Clayton?
Many of the paved greenways and park trails around Clayton are suitable for dogs, as long as they are kept on a leash. The urban park setting means you'll find plenty of space for a walk with your canine companion.
What is the general terrain like for hiking in Clayton?
The hiking around Clayton is characterized by relatively flat terrain. The routes are primarily paved greenways and paths through urban parks like Shaw Park and Kaufman Park, often following local creeks. You won't find significant elevation changes here.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, there are several loop trails that make for convenient hikes. For a shorter walk, the Shaw Park loop is a great choice. If you're looking for something a bit longer, the Emerson Grand Basin loop offers a pleasant walk.
How many hiking trails are there near Clayton?
You can explore around 50 different routes in the Clayton area. These range from short park walks to longer greenway paths, with the majority being easy or moderate.
Are there any challenging or difficult hikes in this area?
No, the trails around Clayton are rated as easy or moderate. The landscape consists of flat, paved paths and urban parks, so it is not a destination for strenuous or difficult mountain hiking.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Clayton?
The routes in this area are well-regarded by the komoot community, which has given them an average rating of 4.0 stars. Hikers often enjoy the accessibility of the green spaces within the suburban landscape.
Are there any nature-focused trails?
Yes, for a walk that feels a bit more removed from the city, consider the Ruth Park Nature Trail from Kaufman Park. It provides a pleasant route through local parkland.
Can I go for a run on these trails?
Absolutely. The paved and relatively flat surfaces of the greenways and park paths are ideal for running. The routes are popular with both walkers and runners looking for accessible outdoor exercise.
Are there any scenic viewpoints on the trails?
While the trails offer pleasant park and riverside scenery, the most iconic view is found on the Wheels and Heels Path loop, which provides excellent views of the Gateway Arch.
Do I need to pay for parking or access to the trails?
Most trails start in public parks like Shaw Park and Kaufman Park, which generally offer free parking. The greenway system is also freely accessible, making it an easy and affordable way to get outdoors.
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