The best walks and hikes around Crestwood
5.0
(4)
103
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking around Crestwood, Missouri, primarily features paved greenways and park trails. The landscape is characterized by gentle terrain, with routes often following river corridors like the Mississippi River and River Des Peres. These paths wind through urban parks and suburban green spaces, offering accessible options for walking and hiking.
Best hiking trails around Crestwood
- The most popular hiking route is Grant's Trail, an 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 30 minutes to complete. This is a paved greenway path suitable for a longer walk.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is River Des Peres Greenway to Morganford Road Bridge — St. Louis, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This route follows the river greenway, providing a straightforward and level walk.
- Local hikers also love the White Cliff Quarry Park, a 1.3 miles (2.1 km) trail leading through a park with quarry features, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Crestwood is defined by paved greenways, riverside paths, and trails within community parks. The network of routes provides options for various fitness levels, with most being easy and accessible.
- The routes in Crestwood are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore Crestwood's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
4.16km
01:08
60m
50m
Embark on the Tanglevine, Hickory Ridge and Broken Ridge Loop for an easy hike through a vibrant oak-hickory forest. This pleasant route spans 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 199 feet (61 metres), making it perfect for a leisurely outing. You can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 7 minutes. As you walk, you'll discover charming bridges crossing creeks and, after a good rain, even catch glimpses of small waterfalls and cascades. The trail offers a serene atmosphere, especially when spring wildflowers are in bloom.
Located within the Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, this loop is easily accessible for a quick escape into nature. The path is mostly paved, ensuring a smooth hiking experience for most visitors. However, be aware that the low-water bridge on the Hickory Ridge Trail can become impassable during periods of heavy rain and high water. It's always a good idea to check current trail conditions before you head out, especially after significant rainfall.
This urban oasis provides a wonderful opportunity to observe local wildlife, with deer, turkey, and various bird species often spotted along the way. The Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center is dedicated to preserving this natural habitat, offering a unique blend of accessibility and wilderness. It stands out as a notable destination for those seeking a peaceful nature experience close to the city.
1
hikers
1.78km
00:28
20m
10m
Discover the Kirkwood Park Fitness Trail, an easy 1.1 miles (1.8 km) route perfect for a quick outdoor escape. This trail offers a gentle hike with only 58 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 28 minutes to complete. You will find a mix of paved and unpaved sections, winding through green spaces and forested areas, and might even pass by the clear waters of Walker Lake or follow a rocky creek.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as Kirkwood Park provides well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and ample parking. The park is a comprehensive recreational hub, making access to the trail convenient for everyone. You can easily find a spot to park your car and begin your hike without any hassle.
What makes this trail unique are the fitness stations located along the way, offering you the chance to incorporate structured exercise into your hike. This feature sets the Kirkwood Park Fitness Trail apart, providing an engaging option for those looking to combine a leisurely walk with a bit of a workout.
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1
hikers
19.5km
04:59
50m
90m
Embark on a moderate hike along Grant's Trail, a 12.1-mile (19.5 km) route that follows a historic railroad bed through St. Louis County. You will experience a gentle journey with only 171 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for many. Expect to spend around 4 hours and 58 minutes exploring the path, which winds past significant local sights. As you hike, you might catch a glimpse of the famous Clydesdales at Grant's Farm, a unique visual landmark along the way. The paved surface offers a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on the surrounding nature.
Planning your visit to Grant's Trail is straightforward, as the entire route is paved and well-maintained. You will find ample parking and trailheads at various points along the route, including Union Road Country Park. Restrooms and drinking water facilities are also available at several locations, ensuring a comfortable outing for your hike. This makes it easy to access and enjoy the trail at your convenience.
This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, built on a former railroad line. You will pass by the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, connecting you to a piece of American history. Depending on the season, you can also spot abundant native wildflowers among the pine and oak forests. It is a family-friendly option that combines outdoor activity with interesting local attractions.
1
hikers
2.13km
00:35
30m
30m
Discover the unique landscape of White Cliff Quarry Park on an easy hike that takes you around an abandoned rock quarry. You can walk along a boardwalk for clear views of the striking cliffside pond. The trail also leads through dense woods alongside Gravois Creek, where you might spot white quartz embedded in sandstone cliffs. This easy route covers 1.3 miles (2.1 km) with an elevation gain of 103 feet (31 metres), taking about 34 minutes to complete.
White Cliff Quarry Park offers good access and ample parking, making your visit straightforward. While the main gravel path is easy to navigate, be aware that some smaller paths leading down to the abandoned quarry can be steep. The park also features a community center and aquatic center, so you might consider extending your day out.
Explore the historical remnants of the quarry's past, such as old bridge ruins and cement columns, which add a unique touch to your hike. This comprehensive recreational destination is known for its distinct geology, including areas with white quartz embedded in sandstone cliffs. It's a great spot for a quick nature escape or a full day of activities.
1
hikers
1.06km
00:16
0m
10m
Hike the easy 0.7-mile Bluff Creek Trail in Emmenegger Nature Park, gaining 9 feet of elevation in just 16 minutes.
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Popular around Crestwood
Tips from the Community
Scenic stretch of Grant’s Trail. Also, there are way fewer roads crossing here than on the parts further up to the Northwest.
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This is the perfect park for a running trail in nature. It features woodland paths, a river, and superb views across the surrounding area. The park is open for the public but only between the hours of 10am and 4pm.
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This is a lovely park along Grant's Trail with the Gravois Creek flowing right through it. You can jump off the pathway and into the park and catch your breath on the grassy patch next to the water.
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This is a gem of a park in the Kirkwood area that is perfect for running. It features a fully paved pathway, lake, shelters, amphitheatre and beautiful scenery.
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Grant's Trail is a 10-mile long multi-use trail that stretches through the south and southwest of St Louis County. It's fully paved making it accessible to all and connects a number of great parks and green spaces.
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This national historic site marks where General (and later President) Ulysses S. Grant met his future wife, and where they lived for some time. Although Grant is known as the general who led the Union Army to victory in the US Civil War, it's important to recognize that he held a workforce of slaves here for some time. You can learn more about this national historic site here: https://www.nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm
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This national historic site marks where General (and later President) Ulysses S. Grant met his future wife, and where they lived for some time. Although Grant is known as the general who led the Union Army to victory in the US Civil War, it's important to recognize that he held a workforce of slaves here for some time. You can learn more about this national historic site here: https://www.nps.gov/ulsg/index.htm
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In 2016, this park is named in honor of a St. Louis County police officer who was killed in the line of duty. It has a playground, athletic fields, several hiking trails, a fitness trail, and easy access to Grant's Trail, also known as the Gravois Greenway.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this guide for Crestwood, Kentucky or Missouri?
This guide focuses on hiking trails in and around Crestwood, Missouri. The routes primarily feature paved greenways and paths within the St. Louis metropolitan area.
Are the hiking trails in Crestwood suitable for families with children?
Yes, many trails are great for families. The area has 10 easy-rated hikes. A good option is the Laumeier Sculpture Garden loop trail — St. Louis, Missouri, which is a short, easy walk through a park with interesting art installations.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Most of the paved greenway trails in the Crestwood area are suitable for dogs on a leash. Parks like Jefferson Barracks County Park are generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any circular or loop hikes?
Yes, you can find loop trails. For a shorter walk, the Officer Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park loop from Grant's Trail is an easy circular path that takes about an hour to complete.
What are the trail conditions like in Crestwood?
The trails are predominantly paved greenways with gentle terrain. You can expect well-maintained paths that often follow river corridors, making them accessible and straightforward for hiking and walking.
Are there any trails with waterfalls near Crestwood?
The immediate trails around Crestwood, being mostly paved urban greenways, do not feature natural waterfalls. These routes are characterized by gentle riverside and park landscapes.
What's a good trail for a longer hike?
For a more substantial hike, consider the Grant's Trail to Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park — St. Louis, Missouri. It's a moderately difficult route of about 8.5 miles (13.7 km) on a paved greenway, perfect for a longer day out.
Are any of the trails suitable for trail running?
The paved and relatively flat greenways are excellent for running. The River Des Peres Greenway to Morganford Road Bridge — St. Louis offers a 4.4-mile (7.1 km) path that is ideal for an uninterrupted run.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails?
Many of the paved greenway paths, such as Grant's Trail and the River Des Peres Greenway, are generally flat and wide, making them potentially suitable for wheelchairs. However, it's advisable to check the specific trail sections for any barriers or steep grades.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Crestwood?
The komoot community has rated the routes in this area highly. Hikers often enjoy the accessibility of the paved paths and the pleasant scenery through local parks and along river corridors.
Where can I find a trail with historical interest?
The Mississippi River Greenway from Jefferson Barracks County Park runs through a historic park. Jefferson Barracks has a long military history and contains several museums and historic sites you can explore.
How many hiking trails are available around Crestwood?
There are over a dozen designated hiking routes in the Crestwood area featured in this guide, ranging from short, easy loops to longer greenway paths.
Most popular routes around Crestwood
Most popular attractions around Crestwood
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