Looking for the best hiking trails near St. Louis? You’ve come to the right place.
St. Louis is surrounded by some incredible places to hike. From wooded hills and dramatic bluffs to caves, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and wildlife, there are hundreds of opportunities to get outside within an easy drive of the city.
I’ve explored hiking trails throughout the St. Louis area and across Missouri and Illinois. This guide brings together 30 of my favorite existing That Away Dad hikes and outdoor walks near St. Louis.
Use this guide to find your next adventure, then click through to the individual trail guide for my first-hand experience, trail information, photos, directions and tips.
Quick Picks: Best Hikes Near St. Louis
Best overall St. Louis-area hiking destination: Castlewood State Park
Best hike for river views: Al Foster Trail to Sherman Beach
Best bluff views: Bluff View Trail
Best hike with caves: Cliff Cave Park
Best family adventure: Pickle Springs
Best wildlife hike: Lone Elk Park
Best waterfall opportunity: LaBarque Creek Conservation Area
Best challenging hike: West Tyson County Park
Best short family walk: Riparian Trail
Best urban adventure: Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Best St. Louis history hike: Brickline Greenway
30 Great Hikes Near St. Louis
I’ve organized these trails by area so you can find an adventure close to home or where you’re planning to spend the day.
West St. Louis County & Wildwood
1. Castlewood State Park
Castlewood State Park is a classic hiking destination near St. Louis.
The park has multiple trails, including River Scene Trail, Lone Wolf Trail, Grotpeter Trail, Stinging Nettle Trail, Cedar Bluff Trail and Castlewood Loop.
The trails provide opportunities to hike along the Meramec River, climb above the river valley and explore Kiefer Creek.
Why hike it: Meramec River views, bluffs, multiple trails and a full day of outdoor adventure.
Read the full hike: Dad Hikes: Spending the Day at Castlewood State Park
2. Cliff Cave Park
The park includes the unique Cliff Cave, originally called Indian Cave, which once served as a beer cellar and has a spring that flows from it.
This St. Louis County Park includes unpaved trails through the hills and paved trails leading to the cave area and down to the Mississippi River, offering a varied hiking experience.
Why hike it: Cave, river views, and changing terrain.
Read the full hike: Cliff Cave Park Hike
3. Rockwoods Range
If you want a quieter hike in the woods, Rockwoods Range is worth exploring.
The Round House Loop is about three miles and climbs through wooded hills to the Roundhouse Memorial.
The conservation area also has additional trails that can make for longer adventures.
Why hike it: Peaceful woods, hills and a quieter hiking experience.
Read the full hike: Alone in the Woods at Rockwoods Range
4. Don Robinson State Park
Don Robinson State Park offers some of the most unusual scenery near St. Louis.
See a sandstone canyon with its cave-like rock shelter and cross-clear trickling streams at Don Robinson State Park.
I hiked the 4-mile Sandstone Canyon Trail, blazed in Red. Since exploring the canyon, I have hiked about 4.2 miles with 551 feet of elevation gain.
Why hike it: Sandstone canyons, hidden pools, rock formations and challenging terrain.
Read the full hike: Don Robinson State Park Sandstone Trail
5. Greensfelder Park
Greensfelder Park sits north of Six Flags and offers a variety of trails through wooded hills.
The Beulah Trail provides rocky terrain and an overlook with views across the surrounding forest.
I hiked approximately 4.6 miles with 407 feet of elevation gain.
Why hike it: Scenic overlooks, hills and rocky terrain.
Read the full hike: Greensfelder Park: Hike to a Lookout on the Beulah Trail
6. West Tyson County Park
West Tyson County Park is a good choice if you’re looking for a more challenging hike.
The Chubb Trail and Flint Quarry Trail provide rocky terrain, elevation changes, and views of the surrounding hills and Meramec River.
The Chubb Trail eventually connects West Tyson County Park with Castlewood State Park and Lone Elk Park.
Why hike it: Challenging terrain, rocky trails, elevation changes, and river views.
Read the full hike: West Tyson County Park Hike
7. Emmenegger Nature Park
Emmenegger Nature Park may be small, but it offers more variety than you might think.
The trails travel alongside creeks, climb bluffs and pass the former retreat of beer baron William D. Becker.
I explored the Bluff Creek Trail and paved loops for about two miles with approximately 320 feet of elevation gain.
Why hike it: Bluffs, creeks and a short hike close to St. Louis.
Read the full hike: Emmenegger Nature Park: Hiking Along Bluffs and Creeks
8. Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center
Powder Valley is one of the easiest spots to enjoy the woods without going far from the city.
The conservation area has several trails, including paved sections, wooded paths, bridges, and small streams.
Why hike it: Family-friendly trails and easy access from the St. Louis area.
Read the full hike: Fall Hikes: Powder Valley Nature Center
Meramec River & South St. Louis County
9. Al Foster Trail to Sherman Beach
The Al Foster Trail follows the Meramec River beneath dramatic bluffs.
The hike to Sherman Beach is 4.7 miles out and back with about 72 feet of elevation gain on a gravel surface.
There is also an optional side trail leading to a bluff overlook.
Why hike it: River views, bluffs, relatively gentle terrain and family appeal.
Read the full hike: Al Foster Trail Hike to Sherman Beach
10. Bluff View Trail
Bluff View Trail is one of the best choices when you want a big view from a St. Louis-area trail.
The hike is about 5.2 miles and includes approximately 344 feet of elevation gain.
The trail climbs above the Meramec River and provides views of the river valley and surrounding hills.
Why hike it: Scenic overlooks and Meramec River views.
Read the full hike: High Point Meramec River Views on Bluff View Trail Hike
11. Hamilton-Carr Greenway and Turkey Ridge Trail
This hike combines a paved greenway with the natural-surface Turkey Ridge Trail.
The complete route is approximately five miles, including three miles of Hamilton-Carr and two miles of Turkey Ridge.
The hike passes springs, creeks, wooded hills, ravines and old ruins.
Why hike it: A combination of easy greenway walking and more traditional wooded hiking.
Read the full hike: You Can Hike the Hamilton-Carr Greenway to the Turkey Ridge Trail
12. Lower Meramec Park
Lower Meramec Park provides an easy four-mile asphalt trail along the Meramec River.
The trail travels through bottomland forest and includes opportunities to walk out toward the river.
A natural-surface Tall Timbers Trail provides another option for exploring the area.
Why hike it: Flat terrain, river views, and an easy trail.
Read the full hike: Hiking Along the River at Lower Meramec Park
13. Buder Park
Buder Park offers an unusual combination of river views, paved paths, gravel trails, roads, and model airplanes.
I walked about 2.7 miles with 95 feet of elevation gain.
The river section provides views of the Meramec and a railroad bridge.
Why hike it: Easy walking, river views and something different from a traditional trail.
Read the full hike: Buder Park Hike
14. Officer Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park
This South County park has more hiking options than you’d expect for a spot in the suburbs.
I explored several trails for about 3.2 miles, including the Hickory Hollow Trail along a brook and sections near Gravois Creek.
Why hike it: Woods and streams close to the city.
Read the full hike: Officer Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park Hike
15. Sylvan Springs Park
Sylvan Springs Park has a short, unique walk where you’ll see springs flowing under stone bridges.
The hike is about one mile and includes paved and unpaved sections with approximately 95 feet of elevation gain.
Why hike it: Springs, stone bridges and St. Louis history.
Read the full hike: Sylvan Springs Park Walk
16. Bates Memorial Park: Joachim Loop Trail
The Joachim Loop Trail at Bates Memorial Park is a 1.3-mile hike through bottomland forest and along a creek.
There’s also a playground with a volcano, so it’s a fun spot for families.
Why hike it: Short trail, creek, woods and a kid-friendly playground.
Read the full hike: Bates Memorial Park: Joachim Loop Trail
Family-Friendly Hiking Near St. Louis
17. Lone Elk Park
Lone Elk Park is one of the best places near St. Louis to combine hiking and wildlife watching.
The White Bison Trail is approximately 3.2 miles and travels through the elk section of the park.
You can also drive through the park and look for elk, bison, deer, wild turkeys, and waterfowl.
Why hike it: Wildlife and hiking in the same adventure.
Read the full hike: Dad Hikes: Lone Elk Park
18. Babler State Park
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park has lots of trails and plenty to see.
The Dogwood Trail is a two-mile loop through woods, hills, and ravines. The Virginia Day Memorial Nature Trail provides another opportunity to explore the park.
The park also has historic Civilian Conservation Corps structures.
Why hike it: Family hiking, history, woods and multiple trails.
Read the full hike: Much to Explore at Babler State Park
19. Riparian Trail in Chesterfield
The Riparian Trail is a great choice for a relatively easy walk with kids.
The route I hiked covers 1.8 miles and 92 feet of elevation gain and includes woods, lakes, streams, and a playground.
The paved parts are easy for strollers.
Why hike it: Easy trail, lakes, playground, and family-friendly terrain.
Read the full hike: Hike Along Riparian Trail by Lakes in Chesterfield
20. Larson Park
Larson Park in Webster Groves offers a short walk along Shady Grove Creek.
The route is approximately 0.7 miles with only about 20 feet of elevation gain.
After rain, a small waterfall can appear along the creek.
Why hike it: Short walk, creek, small waterfall and easy access.
Read the full hike: Hike Along Shady Grove Creek at Larson Park
21. Quail Ridge Park
Quail Ridge Park near Wentzville has more than three miles of paved trails and several natural-surface trails.
The Stealey Way Trail is approximately 2.3 miles and travels alongside small brooks and Peruque Creek.
Why hike it: Family-friendly park, creek views, and multiple trail options.
Read the full hike: Fall Hikes: Quail Ridge Park
22. Indian Camp Creek Park
Indian Camp Creek Park in St. Charles County has more than 10 miles of trails.
The six-mile Cannon Trail travels through prairie, forest, and along Big Creek.
The park also has playgrounds, restrooms, shelters and opportunities to see wildlife.
Why hike it: Long trails, prairie, creek views and family amenities.
Read the full hike: Indian Camp Creek Park Hike
St. Louis & Urban Hiking
23. Brickline Greenway
You don’t have to leave the city to go for a hike.
The Brickline Greenway lets you combine walking with St. Louis history.
My route covered 2.3 miles round trip between the area near Chaifetz Arena and Energizer Park.
Along the way, you can learn about Mill Creek Valley and the history of the Negro National League.
Why hike it: St. Louis history, urban scenery and an easy paved walk.
Read the full hike: Learn St. Louis History Along the Brickline Greenway
24. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is one of the most unusual walking destinations in the St. Louis area.
The historic bridge stretches approximately one mile across the Mississippi River and has a famous 30-degree bend.
The bridge was once part of Route 66.
Why hike it: Mississippi River views, Route 66 history and a unique bridge.
Read the full hike: Old Chain of Rocks Bridge Hike
Important: Current access conditions can change. Check the latest information before visiting.
25. Grant’s Trail
Grant’s Trail is a nearly 10-mile paved trail running through St. Louis County.
The trail follows wooded Gravois Creek, passes near Grant’s Farm and eventually connects toward the River des Peres Greenway.
You don’t have to hike the entire trail. Pick a section and turn around when you’ve gone far enough.
Why hike it: Long-distance walking, paved surface and easy access.
Read the full hike: Walking Grant’s Trail in St. Louis County
26. Claire Gempp Davidson Memorial Nature Walk
This small conservation area in South County offers a short nature walk through woods and around a pond.
This 30-acre spot is easy to explore and perfect for a quick outdoor break if you don’t have hours to spend hiking.
Why hike it: Short nature walk and easy access.
Read the full hike: Claire Gempp Davidson Memorial Nature Walk
More Great Hikes Near St. Louis
27. Meramec State Park Cave Hike
Meramec State Park is one of the best destinations near St. Louis for exploring caves and hiking.
More than 40 caves are found beneath the park.
You can see several while hiking the park’s trail system, and the park also offers river views, bluffs, and longer wilderness hikes.
Why hike it: Caves, bluffs, river views and multiple trails.
Read the full hike: Cave Hiking at Meramec State Park
28. Meramec Conservation Area
Meramec Conservation Area sits across the river from Meramec State Park and offers an easy trail through the woods.
The Woodland Trail is approximately 1.3 miles and leads toward Lone Hill Onyx Cave.
Why hike it: Cave, woods and an easy trail.
Read the full hike: Dad Hikes: Meramec Conservation Area
29. Daniel Boone Bridge From Busch Greenway
This 5.4-mile hike combines the Busch Greenway, Katy Trail and a pedestrian crossing of the Daniel Boone Bridge.
The route travels from St. Charles County into Chesterfield and provides views of the Missouri River.
Why hike it: Missouri River views, bridges, creeks and a unique trail combination.
Read the full hike: Daniel Boone Bridge From Busch Greenway Hike
30. Olin Nature Preserve
Olin Nature Preserve near Godfrey, Illinois, is a great place for a day trip from St. Louis.
The 294-acre preserve includes forests, prairie and streams.
I walked about 3.5 miles here and encountered a waterfall and a monument connected to the Underground Railroad.
Why hike it: Waterfall, wildlife, history and a different landscape just across the river.
Read the full hike: Dad Hikes: Olin Nature Preserve
Find the Right St. Louis Hike for You
Not sure where to start?
Want a waterfall?
Try:
Want a cave?
Try:
Want river views?
Try:
Hiking with kids?
Try:
- Lone Elk Park
- Pickle Springs
- Babler State Park
- Riparian Trail
- Bates Memorial Park
- Indian Camp Creek Park
Want a short hike?
Try:
- Larson Park
- Sylvan Springs Park
- Riparian Trail
- Claire Gempp Davidson Memorial Nature Walk
- Bates Memorial Park
Want a challenging hike?
Try:
Tips for Hiking Near St. Louis
Check the weather
Missouri trails can become muddy and slippery after rain. Creek crossings and low areas can also change quickly.
Bring water
Even short hikes can be hot and humid in Missouri summers.
Wear good shoes
Many St. Louis-area trails include rocks, roots, hills, and uneven surfaces.
Check trail conditions before leaving
Trail closures, flooding, construction, and other conditions can change.
Respect wildlife
If you’re hiking at Lone Elk Park or another wildlife area, give animals plenty of room and follow posted rules.
Leave No Trace
Take your trash with you, stay on designated trails and leave natural features where you find them.
Start Exploring St. Louis Hiking Trails
One of the best parts of living in or near St. Louis is having so many outdoor adventures just a short drive away.
You could hike along the Meramec River in the morning, explore a cave in the afternoon, spot elk and bison, find a waterfall, or walk across a historic bridge over the Mississippi.
And this list is just the start.
I’ve hiked many of these trails myself and will keep adding new trail reports to That Away Dad.
Bookmark this page and check back anytime you want a new place to hike near St. Louis.
