The best waterfall hikes and walks in St. Louis County

There are currently 9 waterfall hiking trails documented in St. Louis County on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes through diverse landscapes.

The best time to experience the waterfalls in St. Louis County is typically during spring after snowmelt or heavy rains, and in late fall or early winter when foliage is sparse, making the falls more visible. Summer can also be good, especially after significant rainfall, but some smaller falls might be reduced to trickles during dry spells.

Yes, St. Louis County offers several easy waterfall hikes. For instance, the Creve Coeur Lake – View of Creve Coeur Lake loop from Tremayne Shelter is an easy 4.2-mile route, and the View of Creve Coeur Lake – Creve Coeur Lake loop from Creve Coeur Lake is another easy option at 3.8 miles. These trails are generally less strenuous and suitable for a wider range of abilities.

Many parks and conservation areas in St. Louis County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails if kept on a leash. For example, areas like Castlewood State Park and Rockwoods Reservation, known for their scenic trails, often permit leashed dogs.

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you'll encounter a rich variety of natural features. The region is known for its stunning riverine environments, dramatic limestone bluffs overlooking the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers, and extensive forests. You might also explore restored prairies, natural glades, and wetlands, offering diverse flora and fauna. Some trails, like those near Creve Coeur Lake, also feature beautiful lake views, such as the Sunset View of Creve Coeur Lake.

Yes, many of the waterfall hikes in St. Louis County are loop trails, providing a varied experience without retracing your steps. For example, the Lakeview and Mallard Lake Loop Trail is a moderate 5.7-mile loop that takes you around scenic lakes and through varied terrain.

The waterfall hiking trails in St. Louis County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the peaceful natural settings, especially the riverine environments and dense woodlands.

While specific named waterfalls can be elusive and seasonal, parks like Castlewood State Park, Cliff Cave County Park, and Rockwoods Reservation are renowned for their scenic beauty, diverse trails, and potential for seasonal water features. Creve Coeur Lake Park also offers beautiful lake views and trails like the Fee Fee Greenway and Creve Coeur Park Loop.

Given the varied terrain, which can include rocky and rooty sections, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are recommended. Dressing in layers is also advisable, as conditions can change, especially near water features. Depending on the season, waterproof outerwear might be beneficial.

While many trails are moderate in length, you can find longer options. The Fee Fee Greenway and Creve Coeur Park Loop, for example, is a moderate 12.0-mile trail that takes nearly 5 hours to complete, offering a more extended hiking experience through woodlands and along the lake.

While not exclusively in St. Louis County, Forest Park, a massive urban park, offers miles of trails, woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Its Forest Park Paths and Lagoons loop is a moderate 7.4-mile path that winds through the park, showcasing its natural features and lagoons, which can include small cascades or water features depending on the season.