Stinging Nettle Trail

The Stinging Nettle Trail is located within Castlewood State Park. Parking is available at the park's main lots, which provide convenient access to the trailheads.

Generally, there are no entrance fees for Castlewood State Park. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Missouri State Parks website for any current regulations or special event fees before your visit.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. During warmer months, be prepared for abundant mosquitoes and potential for overgrown vegetation. Winter hikes can be peaceful, but watch for slippery conditions.

The trail primarily consists of singletrack with natural surfaces including dirt, mud, and gravel. You can expect an 'up-and-down' undulation due to past gravel dredging, along with shifting rock, roots, and occasional deep sand. There are also water or stream crossings without bridges, and some areas can become very muddy.

The trail is named for the prevalence of stinging nettle plants (Urtica dioica) that line the path. These plants have fine hairs that can cause skin irritation if touched. It's advisable to wear long pants and be mindful to avoid brushing against them, especially when passing other trail users.

The trail offers picturesque scenery with up-close views of the Meramec River and lush forested areas along its banks. It's described as a beautiful and peaceful route.

While some sections are easy, the trail is generally considered easy to moderate for hiking due to its varied and 'up-and-down' terrain, natural surfaces, and potential for mud or water crossings. Beginners should be prepared for these conditions.

Yes, the Stinging Nettle Trail connects to other trails within Castlewood State Park, such as the Al Foster Trail, allowing for the creation of longer loops and varied hiking experiences. It also passes through sections of the Meremec Greenway, Chubb Trail, WC10 Gravel Plant Connector, WC9 Old Nettle Loop Connector, and WC8 Rockaway Connector.

Given the trail's characteristics, it's recommended to bring sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent (especially in warmer months), and wear long pants to protect against stinging nettles. Water and snacks are also essential.

The Stinging Nettle Trail itself is not a simple loop, but it connects to other trails within Castlewood State Park, such as the Al Foster Trail, which allows hikers to create various loop configurations of different distances.