What is the Best Trail to do Hiking in St Louis?

St. Louis is one of the best city to explore if you are looking for outdoor adventures. The city offers a wide range of activities that will make you fall in love with nature. From paddleboarding to fishing, everything one can find in St. Louis making it so attractive to nature lovers. However, one of the most popular activities among locals and visitors alike is hiking on some of the many gorgeous trails in the city.

Hiking is a great way to clear your head, get some exercise, and enjoy nature. So, whether you’ve been living in St. Louis for years or are simply passing by and have the urge to explore the beauty of this city, here are some of the best hikes in the area:

The Riverfront Trail

The Riverfront Trail offers an incredible view while going through downtown St. Louis. You can also explore St. Louis Zoo, Forest Park, and much more. This 15-mile path along the Mississippi River can be divided into two parts for people looking for a shorter adventure. The southern part covers 7 miles from Downtown to Jefferson Barracks Park, while the northern path goes over 7 miles from Jefferson Barracks Park to North County Riverfront Trail.

Rockwoods Reservation Trails

Only 25 miles away from St. Louis, Rockwoods Reservation Trails’ winding paths offer experienced hikers a challenge while exploring amazing features such as limestone bluffs, wildflowers, and streams. There are 6 trails available to hikers here ranging from ¾ miles to 4.1 miles with varying levels of difficulty that make it suitable for all kinds of hikers. With over 3,800 acres of sprawling woodlands and unique geological formations, Rockwoods Reservation Trails is definitely a must-visit for nature-lovers visiting St. Louis.

St. Vincent Greenway

The 10-mile St. Vincent Greenway is located in South St. Louis County and runs from Fenton to Lemay. This easy, wheelchair accessible trail is great for both experienced hikers and so-called beginning hikers. A great part of the trail crosses over the Loretta Bridge, a 185-year old bridge that still stands today, which makes the stroll far more interesting. Moreover, there are amenities such as an amphitheater, restrooms, shelters and benches along this spectacular trail.

Katy Trail

The Katy Trail is a 225-mile long state park that runs from Clinton through St Charles and St Louis Counties all the way up to Machens, Missouri. This crushed stone hiking and biking trail follows along the Missouri River enabling visitors to admire breathtaking views of rural landscapes and historic sites along the way. If you’re looking for something out of town, this might just be the perfect spot for you to experience.

As you can see, St. Louis has countless hiking trails around the city, each with its own unique atmosphere that make all of these spots worth visiting. Whether you’re a novice on outdoor activities or an experienced hiker, you’ll certainly find a great spot for your next outdoor adventure in St Louis. If you’re looking for detailed information about all these trails be sure to visit the official TrailLink page for St. Louis, where you can find maps, reviews and all the relevant information related to the trails discussed here and more!

An Insider’s Guide to St. Louis: Beyond the Usual Tourist Spots

As the largest city in Missouri, St. Louis is well-known for being the hometown of Budweiser, baseball, and of course, the iconic Gateway Arch. But for those who want to delve deeper into St. Louis and find unique experiences, there is more to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Local Attractions

While many will visit the St. Louis Zoo and the Missouri Botanical Garden, there are hidden gems that only locals know about. The City Museum is an eclectic mix of play areas, art installations, and architectural wonders. The Guinness World Record Museum may seem touristy, but it does have unique exhibits and memorabilia that make it worth a visit. Meanwhile, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site across the Mississippi River in Illinois is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the remnants of an ancient city that existed more than a thousand years ago.

Dining Spots

St. Louis-style pizza with thin crust and a unique sweet sauce is a must-try while you are here. Local favorites include Imo’s Pizza, Pi Pizzeria, and Cecil Whittaker’s Pizzeria. Another local favorite is Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, a 90-year-old family-owned business that serves creamy frozen custard and iconic concretes that are worth the wait.

Cultural Experiences

St. Louis has a rich history and culture, with annual festivals that celebrate its traditions and customs. The Soulard Mardi Gras is one of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations outside of New Orleans, with parades, parties, and live music. The Missouri Botanical Garden’s “Lantern Festival: Magic Reimagined” is a stunning display of hundreds of illuminated lanterns depicting Asian culture and traditions.

Local History

St. Louis was once the largest city west of the Mississippi River and played a crucial role in American history. The Old Courthouse where Dred and Harriet Scott sued for their freedom is a must-visit, as is the Missouri History Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and artifacts that showcase the city’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who want a unique experience, try a rooftop yoga class offered at the Angad Arts Hotel, which also has an art gallery showcasing local artists. Alternatively, explore the Cave Springs Cemetery, where the founder of Jack Daniel’s Whiskey and many other historical figures are buried. Another unforgettable experience is watching the fireworks show at the Gateway Arch while cruising along the Mississippi River on the Becky Thatcher Riverboat.

In conclusion, St. Louis may seem like a typical midwestern city, but it has much more to offer beyond its famous tourist attractions. Once you explore the hidden gems, try the local cuisine, and engage in its culture and history, you are sure to fall in love with the “Gateway to the West.”