The best city hikes and walks around St. Louis

The St. Louis area offers over 20 urban hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls through city parks to more challenging paths along riverfronts. These trails provide diverse experiences within the metropolitan area.

Urban hikes in St. Louis feature a variety of terrain, including paved paths, gravel trails, and natural surfaces through restored woodlands, wetlands, and riverine environments. You'll find relatively flat routes suitable for leisurely walks, as well as some with gentle inclines, particularly those offering views of the Mississippi or Meramec Rivers.

Yes, St. Louis has several excellent options for families. Trails like the Nature Playscape Loop are short and engaging for children. Many city parks, including Forest Park, offer easy, accessible paths perfect for all ages. The Saint Louis Zoo also offers a pleasant walking experience within its grounds.

Many urban parks and trails in St. Louis welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Forest Park, with its extensive network of paths, is a popular choice for dog walkers. Always check specific park regulations before heading out, but generally, most city park trails are dog-friendly.

St. Louis urban trails offer access to several iconic landmarks and natural features. You can walk near the historic Gateway Arch, explore the expansive Forest Park, or visit the Old Courthouse. The St. Louis Riverfront Trail provides views of the Mississippi River and the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.

Yes, many urban hiking routes in St. Louis are designed as loops, offering convenient circular walks. For example, the Lafayette Park Loop provides a pleasant circular path through a historic neighborhood park. Forest Park also features numerous interconnected trails that can be combined to create circular routes of varying lengths.

Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant seasons for urban hiking in St. Louis, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings blooming flowers, while fall offers vibrant autumn colors. Summer can be hot and humid, so early mornings or late evenings are best. Winter hikes are also possible, especially on clear, crisp days, but be mindful of ice on paths.

Many urban hiking areas in St. Louis are well-served by public transportation, particularly those within the city limits like Forest Park and downtown attractions. The MetroLink light rail system and MetroBus routes provide access to various parks and trailheads, making it easy to reach your starting point without a car.

Parking availability varies by location. Major urban parks like Forest Park offer numerous parking lots, often free of charge. For trails in more residential or downtown areas, street parking or paid garages may be necessary. It's advisable to check specific parking information for your chosen trailhead in advance.

The urban hiking experience in St. Louis is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the surprising amount of green space within the city, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to combine nature walks with cultural sights and historical landmarks. The diversity of trails, from riverfront views to peaceful park loops, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the St. Louis Riverfront Trail is an excellent option for river views. This trail runs along the Mississippi River, offering expansive vistas of the water, the city skyline, and the iconic Gateway Arch. Cliff Cave County Park also provides scenic views of the Mississippi from its bluffs.

For beginners, the Lafayette Park Loop and the Nature Playscape Loop are great starting points. These trails are relatively short, mostly flat, and offer pleasant surroundings without significant elevation changes. Many paths within Forest Park are also very accessible and easy to navigate for those new to hiking.