The best running trails around Glen Echo Park
4.8
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1,214
runners
89
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Jogging routes around Glen Echo Park offer a variety of running experiences through established green spaces and along accessible paths. The region features parkland with gentle elevation changes, providing suitable terrain for various fitness levels. Runners can expect well-maintained trails that wind through natural settings, making it an ideal location for urban and suburban running. The area's landscape is characterized by its accessible pathways and open park areas, catering to both short, quick runs and longer endurance training.
Best jogging routes around Glen Echo Park
- The most popular jogging route is Forest Park running loop from University City-Big Bend, an 8.6 miles (13.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 27 minutes to complete. This route features moderate difficulty with varied park scenery.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Saint Vincent Greenway, a moderate 5.9 miles (9.6 km) path. This trail offers a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, ideal for a consistent running pace.
- Local runners also love the Forest Park loop from Forest Park-DeBaliviere, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail leading through diverse park landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 4 minutes.
- Jogging around Glen Echo Park is defined by accessible green spaces, established pathways, and gentle inclines. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging runs.
- The routes in Glen Echo Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 800 runners have used komoot to explore Glen Echo Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
82
runners
13.9km
01:28
100m
100m
This Forest Park running loop from University City-Big Bend offers a refreshing escape into nature right within the city. The 8.6-mile (13.9 km) route, rated moderate, guides you through a mix of open green spaces and tranquil woodlands, with a gentle 313 feet (95 metres) of elevation gain that makes for a steady, enjoyable jog. You'll encounter picturesque spots like Jefferson Lake and even pass by The Cascades "Flegel Falls" during your estimated 1 hour and 27 minutes on the trail.
Planning your visit is straightforward, especially with the convenient access from the University City-Big Bend MetroLink station. The trail features a dual recreational path, giving you the flexibility to choose between paved and soft gravel surfaces, depending on your preference for the day. This makes it a versatile option for different training needs and comfort levels.
Forest Park itself is a remarkable urban oasis, sprawling over 1,400 acres and offering much more than just a running path. Beyond the natural beauty and potential wildlife sightings, the route integrates seamlessly with St. Louis's cultural heart, passing by institutions like the Saint Louis Art Museum and the Saint Louis Science Center. It's a fantastic way to combine your workout with a tour of the city's highlights.
9.55km
01:00
70m
70m
The Saint Vincent Greenway offers a refreshing jogging experience, blending natural beauty with urban history. As you move along this primarily paved asphalt route, you'll traverse lush woodlands within St. Vincent Park, flow through prairie restoration areas, and wind through the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL) campus, where you can spot native trees and interesting architecture. The varied terrain, from flatter segments to rolling hills around UMSL, ensures a dynamic workout and engaging scenery.
This moderate 5.9-mile (9.6 km) route, with its 232 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 59 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a solid morning run. The greenway is well-equipped with amenities like restrooms and benches, and its connectivity to a larger network means multiple access points. For a comfortable experience, consider tackling this route during the cooler parts of the day or year.
Beyond the workout, the Saint Vincent Greenway is rich in historical context, passing by the historic St. Vincent's Hospital, which was once farmland owned by the Daughters of Charity. It also crosses old wagon train paths and former railroad lines, offering glimpses into the region's past. This trail is a key part of an expanding greenway system, aiming to connect Forest Park all the way to the UMSL campus and beyond, enhancing accessibility for many.
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5.0
(1)
196
runners
15.0km
01:34
90m
90m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
31
runners
10.6km
01:06
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Glen Echo Park
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 bike lanes here are wonderful. The connectors could be improved though!
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If you want to bike (or inline skate), this is the trail for you; it keeps faster-moving trail users separate from the slower walkers and runners on the "Heels" Trail. Both trails form a full loop around the park.
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The park features a multi-use paved trail that runs through a beautifully maintained park fit with tennis courts, athletic fields, playground and picnic areas.
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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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Nestled in Forest Park, The Cascades "Flegel Falls" offers runners a peaceful retreat, with rushing waters providing a soothing soundtrack for the trail. Though sometimes dry, the rocky cascading falls still make for an invigorating sight. Pause here if you need a break and get re-energized by nature’s beauty and power as you take in this hidden gem.
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Jefferson Lake is situated in the very east of the huge Forest Park in St. Louis. There are multiple picnic areas around the lake to enjoy a great natural setting in the city. The lake is a famous spot for fishing and the paths leading around the lake (and the rest of the park), are perfect for jogging.
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Round Lake is one of the shadier spots in Forest Park. You can see it from the path, but if you jog over to the trees next to the water, you can really see the fountains and birds that frequent the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Glen Echo Park?
There are over 80 running routes around Glen Echo Park, offering a wide range of options for different preferences and fitness levels. The komoot community has explored these trails over 800 times.
Are there easy running routes suitable for beginners in Glen Echo Park?
Yes, Glen Echo Park offers several easy running routes perfect for beginners. You'll find 11 routes specifically graded as easy. A good option to start with is the Emerson Grand Basin – The Cascades "Flegel Falls" loop from Skinker, which is a moderate 4.1-mile (6.5 km) path with minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails in Glen Echo Park?
The jogging routes in Glen Echo Park feature a mix of established pathways and green spaces. You can expect well-maintained trails that wind through natural settings, with gentle elevation changes. Some paths, like the Saint Vincent Greenway, offer a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces.
Are there any circular running routes in Glen Echo Park?
Yes, many of the running routes in Glen Echo Park are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular Forest Park running loop from University City-Big Bend is a great circular option, covering 8.6 miles (13.9 km) through varied park scenery.
What can I see along the running routes in Glen Echo Park?
Many running routes pass by beautiful natural features and landmarks. You can enjoy views of lakes like Post-Dispatch Lake and Jefferson Lake. Some trails also lead through Forest Park, offering diverse landscapes and points of interest like the Friedrich Ludwig Jahn Memorial.
Are the running trails in Glen Echo Park suitable for families?
Glen Echo Park offers many accessible pathways and green areas that are suitable for families. While specific stroller-friendly routes aren't detailed, the presence of easy and moderate trails with gentle inclines suggests many options for family outings. Consider shorter, well-maintained loops for younger children.
Is public transport available to access the running trails?
Glen Echo Park is generally accessible, and depending on your starting point, public transport options like buses may serve areas near the park entrances. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most convenient stops closest to your desired trail access point.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Glen Echo Park?
The running routes in Glen Echo Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. Runners often praise the accessible green spaces, well-maintained pathways, and the variety of routes that cater to different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging runs.
Are there any longer, more challenging running routes for experienced runners?
Yes, for experienced runners seeking a challenge, Glen Echo Park offers more difficult routes. An example is the Reflective pool – St Louis Citygarden loop from Forest Park-DeBaliviere, which is a demanding 13.2-mile (21.3 km) trail with significant elevation changes, taking over 2 hours to complete.
Can I find running routes that pass by water features?
Absolutely. Several running routes in and around Glen Echo Park feature beautiful water elements. You can find trails that go past Emerson Grand Basin and other scenic lakes within Forest Park, providing refreshing views during your run.
What is the best time of year to go running in Glen Echo Park?
Glen Echo Park is enjoyable for running throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid the heat, while winter running can be beautiful, though some paths might require appropriate footwear depending on conditions.
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