The best hikes from bus stations in St. Louis city
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Hiking in St. Louis city offers diverse experiences, characterized by its riverine environments, limestone bluffs, and extensive urban green spaces. The region features a mix of flat, accessible paths and gently rolling trails through forests and woodlands. Numerous city parks provide varied ecosystems, from wetlands and prairies to savannas, all within reach of public transport.
Best bus station hiking trails in St. Louis city
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Lafayette Park Loop, a 1.1 miles (1.8 km) trail that takes about 28 minutes to complete, winding through a historic urban park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tower Grove Park – Outer Loop of Tower Grove Park loop from Missouri Botanical Garden, an easy 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path. This route offers a scenic journey through one of the city's large Victorian parks, showcasing diverse plant collections and historic architecture.
- Local hikers also love the Missouri Botanical Garden loop from Missouri Botanical Garden, a 2.1 miles (3.3 km) trail leading through meticulously curated gardens and varied botanical landscapes, often completed in about 52 minutes.
- Hiking in St. Louis city is defined by urban parks, river views, and accessible green spaces, offering a blend of natural beauty and city landmarks. The network provides options for different ability levels, from short strolls to longer park loops.
- The routes in Saint Louis are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Saint Louis's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
1.82km
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.35km
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful basilica with parking right next to the Gateway Arch😎
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The gateway to the West... is worth a visit.
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You should visit here if you are ever in the area😎
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Gateway Arch, St Louis, United States 🇺🇸 The Gateway Arch stands as a magnificent monument to westward expansion, its gleaming stainless steel soaring 630 feet into the sky. Designed by Eero Saarinen, this iconic structure is not just a visual spectacle but also a testament to incredible engineering and architectural prowess. Visitors can even take a tram to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city of St. Louis and the mighty Mississippi River, truly offering a unique perspective on the American landscape. Beyond its impressive height, the Arch is nestled within Gateway Arch National Park, a vibrant green space that invites exploration and relaxation. The park grounds include the Old Courthouse, where the Dred Scott case was heard, adding a layer of historical significance to the modern landmark. Walking around the base of the Arch provides a different appreciation for its scale and the meticulous construction involved in its creation. A trip to the Gateway Arch is more than just seeing a famous landmark; it's an immersive experience. The museum beneath the Arch offers insightful exhibits detailing the history of westward expansion and the construction of the monument itself, providing context and deepening one's understanding of its importance. Whether admiring it from afar or ascending to its summit, the Arch offers a memorable journey into American history and innovation.
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Unfortunately, like so many public buildings in the US, closed, dilapidated, and decaying, it may soon become a lost place. What a pity.
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The Church of the King of France is part of the city of St. Louis's historic cultural heritage. It is located directly at the Arch and is free to visit.
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Beautiful sculpture of stock trading
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The St. Louis Soldiers Memorial Museum is a free, small museum showcasing the contributions of the U.S. military to St. Louis from the American Civil War to the present day. It's very informative and, with many beautiful exhibits, is a sight to behold. The guards are very friendly and willing to answer questions. There are changing exhibits in the basement, and everything is free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible directly from bus stations in St. Louis city?
There are 18 hiking routes in St. Louis city that are easily accessible from bus stations. These trails offer a convenient way to explore the city's green spaces without needing a car.
What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible hiking trails in St. Louis?
The bus-accessible trails in St. Louis city are generally easy, with 15 out of 18 routes falling into this category. You'll find mostly flat paths through urban parks, woodlands, and along riverfronts. While the region boasts diverse landscapes like river bluffs and unique rock formations, the trails directly accessible by bus within the city tend to be less strenuous, focusing on accessible park environments.
Are there any circular hiking routes I can start from a bus station?
Yes, many of the bus-accessible trails in St. Louis city are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point easily. For example, the Lafayette Park Loop is a short, easy circular route, and the Missouri Botanical Garden loop also offers a pleasant circular walk.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along these bus-accessible trails?
Many trails lead through or near significant St. Louis landmarks. You can explore the expansive Forest Park, walk near the iconic Gateway Arch, or wander through the historic Tower Grove Park. The Luther Ely Smith Square – Eads Bridge loop, for instance, takes you past Luther Ely Smith Square.
Are these bus-accessible hiking trails suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! With 15 out of 18 routes rated as 'easy,' many of these trails are ideal for families. They often pass through well-maintained parks with amenities, offering shorter distances and minimal elevation gain, making them perfect for a leisurely outing with children. Consider routes in parks like Lafayette Park or Tower Grove Park for family-friendly options.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible hiking trails?
Many parks in St. Louis city are dog-friendly, but specific rules can vary. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails if kept on a leash. It's always best to check the specific park's regulations before you go. Popular spots like Tower Grove Park and Forest Park typically allow leashed dogs on their trails.
What is the average duration of these bus-accessible hikes?
The duration of these hikes varies, but many are relatively short, making them perfect for a quick escape into nature. For example, the Lafayette Park Loop can be completed in under 30 minutes, while longer options like the Tower Grove Park – Outer Loop can take around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Are there any trails that feature lakes or water bodies?
Yes, several bus-accessible trails in St. Louis city offer views of lakes and other water features. Forest Park, for instance, is home to several beautiful lakes, including Post-Dispatch Lake, Jefferson Lake, and the Emerson Grand Basin, providing picturesque settings for your hike.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in St. Louis city?
The komoot community highly rates these trails, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18 reviews. Hikers often praise the convenience of public transport access, the well-maintained paths, and the surprising amount of natural beauty found within the city's parks.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails accessible by bus in St. Louis city?
While most bus-accessible trails in St. Louis city are easy, there are 3 routes rated as moderate. These might offer slightly longer distances or more varied terrain compared to the easy routes, providing a bit more of a challenge while still being conveniently located near bus stops.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on these urban trails?
Even within the city, St. Louis's parks and green spaces support a variety of wildlife. You might spot deer, various bird species, squirrels, and other small mammals. Parks like Forest Park and Tower Grove Park, with their diverse ecosystems, offer good opportunities for urban wildlife viewing.
Most popular routes in St. Louis city
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