The best walks and hikes around Kirkwood

The Tanglevine, Hickory Ridge and Broken Ridge Loop offers a delightful journey through an oak-hickory forest, providing a quick natural escape within St. Louis. You'll traverse mostly paved paths, crossing charming bridges over creeks, and might even catch small waterfalls after a good rain. The Tanglevine Trail section is dotted with interpretive exhibits, making it an engaging walk for all ages, especially when spring wildflowers or autumn leaves are at their peak.

This easy hiking route covers 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with a gentle 199 feet (61 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 7 minutes. While generally accessible, be prepared for some long, steep grades on the Hickory Ridge Loop that offer a decent workout. It's wise to check trail conditions, as the low-water bridge on the Hickory Ridge Trail can become impassable after heavy rainfall.

Located within the Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center, this loop is a true urban oasis, providing ample opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species. Despite its natural setting, some highway noise can be heard in parts of the park. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking a refreshing, educational walk close to the city.

The Des Peres Park Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through a verdant landscape, perfect for a quick escape into nature. As you follow the paved path, you'll circle two serene lakes, often spotting turtles and geese enjoying the water, and pass through sections lined with tall, leafy green trees. This 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route, with its gentle 23 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors in about 28 minutes.

Planning your visit to Des Peres Park is straightforward, with multiple parking lots ensuring easy access to the trail. The park is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms and picnic areas, making it a convenient spot for families. It’s an ideal destination for a leisurely walk or a light workout, especially if you're looking for a well-maintained, accessible path.

Beyond its natural charm, the Des Peres Park Loop stands out for its family-friendly features, including two playgrounds and a splash area, ensuring entertainment for all ages. The presence of a Parcourse Fitness Trail along the route also makes it unique, allowing you to combine your walk with various workout stations. The lakes are even stocked with bluegill, bass, and catfish, adding to the park's appeal for those interested in fishing.

The Kirkwood Park Fitness Trail offers a delightful blend of paved and natural surfaces, winding through forested areas and past a rocky creek. You'll enjoy gentle rolling terrain and the serene beauty of Walker Lake, often adorned with wildflowers, plantings, and rock walls. It's an easy 1.1-mile (1.8 km) hike with just 58 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect 28-minute outing for a refreshing escape.

Accessing the Kirkwood Park Fitness Trail is straightforward, with ample parking available within Kirkwood Park itself. This makes it a convenient choice for a spontaneous walk or a planned family outing. The trail is suitable for most seasons, offering a pleasant experience whether you visit in the morning or afternoon.

Beyond the scenic path, the trail stands out for its integrated fitness stations, providing instructions for stretching and exercises to enhance your workout. It also connects to the broader Kirkwood Park, which hosts other attractions like the Lions' Amphitheater and sports facilities, and even links to the eight-mile Grant's Trail.

The Bluff Creek Trail offers a delightful, brief escape into nature, perfect for when you need a quick refresh. This easy hiking route guides you through the serene landscape of Emmeneger Nature Park, providing a gentle path that's ideal for a relaxed walk. You'll find yourself immersed in a tranquil setting, a pleasant contrast to urban life, making it a great option for a spontaneous outdoor moment.

Planning your visit to the Bluff Creek Trail is straightforward, as it's easily accessible within Emmeneger Nature Park. Parking is generally available, allowing for a hassle-free start to your outing. Given its short duration of just 16 minutes and easy difficulty, it's a fantastic choice for a quick walk at any time of day, especially if you're looking for family-friendly hikes or a trail for beginners.

This particular Bluff Creek Trail is a compact 0.7 miles (1.1 km) with a negligible 9 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, making it one of the most accessible routes in the area. It's a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful, undemanding outdoor experience, providing a convenient way to enjoy nature without committing to a longer trek. It's a prime example of how even a short trail can offer a valuable connection to the natural world.