The best walks and hikes around Maryland Heights
4.9
(16)
352
hikers
12
hikes
Hikes around Maryland Heights are primarily located within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, a large suburban green space. The region's terrain is characterized by generally flat paths that circle the 320-acre Creve Coeur Lake and adjacent Mallard Lake. Surrounding woodlands offer a more secluded feel away from the main lakeside trails, with a network of both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Best hiking trails around Maryland Heights
- The most popular hiking route is Creve Couer Lake and Mallard Lake loop —…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
2
hikers
4.96km
01:17
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
23
hikers
9.15km
02:21
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
hikers
4.20km
01:06
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
12.2km
03:04
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
19.3km
05:00
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a scenic lake on the south side of Creve Couer Lake Park. There are options to do a running loop around the lake and marsh joining onto Creve Couer Lake to the north, or follow Creve Couer Connector to the Veteran's Memorial Bridge.
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Creve Coeur Lake is the ideal place for a jog. It features a paved footpath that circles the entire lake, numerous shelters and water fountains, public toilets, and most importantly, incredible scenery of water, wildlife and forestry to take your mind off the challenge.
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This is a significant landmark that crosses over the Missouri River. From the bridge, you are afforded far-reaching views that stretch down the waterway and across the city.
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Mallard Lake is a treasure for birdwatchers. It occupies the south end of Creve Couer Lake Park and acts as a catch-basin of sorts to contain sediment before it washes into the larger Creve Couer Lake. As such, you may notice that the waters of Creve Couer Lake are much clearer than the waters of Mallard Lake.
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This is the largest lake in St. Louis County, and the second-largest lake in all of Missouri. Keep an eye out for sailboats on the lake when the wind is really blowing!
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This bike path is part of the Creve Coeur Park Connector. The surface is in great shape, great conditions for road cycling.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Maryland Heights?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, but they must be kept on a leash. For an off-leash experience, the park also features a dedicated dog park. The Creve Couer Lake Park loop from Dogport is a great long walk that starts right near this area.
What are the trails like for beginners?
The area is very well-suited for beginners. Most trails are rated as easy, featuring flat terrain and well-maintained paths, especially around the lakes. With 18 easy-rated hikes out of 21 total, you'll find plenty of accessible options to start with.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. The Mallard Lake loop — Creve Couer Lake Park is an excellent choice for families. It's a short, easy walk of about 2.6 miles (4.2 km) around the smaller, quieter lake, making it manageable for children.
Where can I park to access the trails?
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park has multiple parking lots situated around the lake, providing convenient access to various trailheads. For most lake loop trails, parking near the Tremayne Shelter or the Taco Bell Shelter is a popular choice. Arriving early on weekends is recommended as it's a popular local spot.
Are the hiking trails free to access?
Yes, access to Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park and its network of hiking trails is free. There are no entrance fees for the park or for parking your vehicle.
What are the trail surfaces like?
You'll find a mix of surfaces. The main paths around Creve Coeur Lake are paved and part of the St. Louis County Greenway system, making them suitable for walking and cycling. Trails that venture into the woodlands or around Mallard Lake are typically unpaved, offering a more natural hiking experience.
Can I find any waterfalls on the hikes?
The hikes around Maryland Heights are characterized by lakes and woodlands, not significant elevation changes. As a result, you will not find any waterfalls on the trails within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park.
When is the best time of year to hike in Maryland Heights?
Hiking here is pleasant year-round. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for combining a hike with water activities on the lake, though it can be hot and humid. Winter hikes are quiet and peaceful, but be prepared for colder weather.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available?
While most trails are easy, you can find moderately challenging options by combining trails. The Creve Coeur Connector Trail from Mallard Lake is a good example, covering 7.6 miles (12.2 km) through the park's quieter woodlands.
What do other hikers say about the trails?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars. Hikers often praise the scenic lake views, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodland sections away from the main lake loop.
How many hiking trails are there around Maryland Heights?
There are over 20 designated hiking routes to explore in the area. The majority are rated as easy, with a few moderate options for those seeking a slightly longer walk.
Besides hiking, what other outdoor activities are available?
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park is a hub for outdoor recreation. You can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the lake, with rentals available seasonally. The park also features the Go Ape Treetop Adventure course, a disc golf course, and an archery range. For more information on these activities, you can visit the official Maryland Heights tourism site.
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