Things To Do In St. Louis Outside – Your Ultimate Guide To Urban &
Think St. Louis is just the Gateway Arch, baseball, and city streets? It’s a common misconception, and it makes it easy to overlook the incredible natural playground hiding just beyond the skyline.
But this guide is here to change that. We promise to show you exactly how to find and enjoy the best outdoor adventures in and around the Gateway City, turning a simple visit into a true outdoor experience.
We’ll cover everything from rugged hiking trails and serene float trips to urban parks perfect for a quick escape. This is your complete primer on things to do in St. Louis outside, packed with practical tips on gear, safety, and how to explore sustainably, so you can feel confident and prepared for whatever the trail throws at you.
Why Get Outside in St. Louis? Unpacking the Benefits
St. Louis offers a unique blend of urban accessibility and surprisingly wild nature. You can spend the morning paddling on a quiet lake and the afternoon exploring a world-class museum. This proximity is one of the biggest benefits of Things to do in St. Louis outside.
Escaping the city grid for a forest trail provides an immediate mental reset. The physical challenges of a bluff climb or a long paddle build resilience and strength. It’s a chance to disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with the natural rhythm of the seasons.
And the seasons here are distinct. A trail you hike in the lush green of summer becomes a totally different experience with the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall, or the stark, quiet beauty of winter. Embracing this variety is key to year-round adventuring.
Your Essential St. Louis Outside Adventure Guide: Hiking & Biking
For many, the first step into the outdoors is on a hiking or biking trail. St. Louis is surrounded by incredible state parks and conservation areas that cater to every skill level. This Things to do in St. Louis outside guide will get you started on the right foot.
For the Day Hiker: Castlewood State Park
If you only have time for one hike, make it Castlewood. Located just 30 minutes from downtown, this park is famous for its stunning views from the bluffs towering over the Meramec River.
The River Scene Trail is a must-do. It’s a challenging 3.25-mile loop that starts with a steep climb to the bluffs and then descends into the serene river valley below. The elevation change is significant, so we recommend sturdy hiking shoes like the Merrell Moab 3 and a good set of trekking poles, such as the Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork, to save your knees on the descent.
For a less crowded but equally rewarding experience, check out the Lone Wolf Trail on the other side of the park. It’s a longer, rolling trail that winds through deep woods and is a favorite among local trail runners and hikers seeking solitude.
For the Backpacker & Serious Hiker: Chubb Trail
Ready for a tougher challenge? The Chubb Trail, located in West Tyson County Park, is a rugged, rocky out-and-back trail that will test your endurance. It’s a multi-use trail, so always be alert for mountain bikers coming up or down the path.
This trail is a key connector to the much larger Ozark Trail, a long-distance trail system that spans hundreds of miles across Missouri. For aspiring backpackers, hiking a section of the Chubb is excellent training for longer, more self-sufficient trips.
Pack plenty of water, as the climbs are strenuous, especially in the humid summer months. A hydration reservoir like a CamelBak Crux is perfect for staying hydrated without stopping to dig out a water bottle.
For the Cyclist: Katy Trail State Park
The Katy Trail is a national treasure. As the country’s longest developed rail-trail, it offers 240 miles of flat, scenic riding on a crushed limestone path. Several trailheads are easily accessible from the St. Louis area, including in St. Charles and Machens.
This trail is perfect for everyone. Families can enjoy a short, safe ride, while long-distance cyclists can plan multi-day trips, staying in the charming small towns that dot the route. It’s a fantastic way to see the Missouri River valley at a slower pace.
Paddling and Floating: Exploring St. Louis’s Waterways
Missouri is a state of rivers, and the “float trip” is a cultural institution. It’s a classic summer activity that involves spending a day on the water in a canoe, kayak, or raft. Understanding how to Things to do in St. Louis outside on the water is key to a great experience.
The Classic Missouri Float Trip: Meramec River
The Meramec River is one of the most popular floating destinations near St. Louis. Numerous outfitters are located within an hour’s drive of the city. They provide the boat, paddles, and transportation, making it an easy trip to plan.
Safety is paramount on the river. Always wear your PFD (Personal Flotation Device), even if you’re a strong swimmer. The NRS Chinook Fishing PFD is a comfortable, high-quality option with plenty of pockets. Pack your phone, keys, and snacks in a reliable dry bag to keep them safe and dry.
Urban Paddling: Creve Coeur Lake
You don’t have to drive an hour to get on the water. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park offers a massive 320-acre lake perfect for a calm day of paddling. It’s an ideal spot for beginners to practice their strokes in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP).
Rentals are typically available at the lake during the warmer months, making it an accessible and stress-free option for a quick afternoon adventure.
Urban Oases: Finding Nature Without Leaving the City
Sometimes you only have an hour or two. Luckily, St. Louis has some of the most beautiful and expansive urban parks in the country, offering a quick and restorative dose of nature.
Forest Park: More Than Just a Park
At 1,300 acres, Forest Park is larger than New York’s Central Park. It’s home to museums and the zoo, but it also contains a network of trails, waterways, and restored prairies and woodlands.
You can spend hours walking or running the perimeter loop, birdwatching in the Kennedy Forest, or simply finding a quiet spot by the water. It’s a prime example of how nature and city life can coexist beautifully.
Tower Grove Park: A Victorian Walking Paradise
Tower Grove Park is a National Historic Landmark and a Victorian-era walking park. Its formal, tree-lined paths, unique pavilions, and world-class arboretum make it a stunning place for a stroll any time of year.
It’s a perfect spot for a low-impact outdoor activity and a reminder that connecting with nature doesn’t always require a rugged trail and a heavy pack.
Best Practices for Sustainable & Eco-Friendly St. Louis Adventures
Being a responsible adventurer means leaving a place better than you found it. Adopting sustainable Things to do in St. Louis outside habits ensures these beautiful spaces remain for generations to come. These best practices are a core part of any good outdoor ethic.
Master the Art of Leave No Trace
The Leave No Trace principles are the gold standard for eco-friendly Things to do in St. Louis outside. They aren’t just rules; they’re a mindset.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is the simplest rule. Whatever you bring with you—food wrappers, bottles, gear—must leave with you.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Never leave trash in a fire pit. Use designated receptacles or, better yet, take it all home.
- Leave What You Find: Let wildflowers, rocks, and other natural objects stay where they are for others to enjoy.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them, as it disrupts their natural behaviors and can make them sick.
Handling Common Problems: Weather and Wildlife
Addressing common problems with Things to do in St. Louis outside before they happen is the mark of a smart explorer. Missouri’s weather is famously fickle. Summers are hot and humid, and thunderstorms can pop up quickly. Always check the forecast and pack layers—a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece for warmth, and a waterproof shell like the Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket.
The biggest wildlife concern is ticks. They are prevalent in Missouri’s woods. Wear long pants, treat your outer clothing with permethrin, and use an EPA-approved insect repellent. Most importantly, perform a thorough tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets after every single outing.
Your Post-Adventure Gear Care Guide
A good Things to do in St. Louis outside care guide extends to your equipment. Taking care of your gear ensures it will be ready for your next adventure.
Scrape mud off your hiking boots before it hardens. Air out your tent completely before storing it to prevent mildew. Wash technical clothing according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain its performance features, like waterproofing and breathability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to do in St. Louis Outside
What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in St. Louis?
Fall (September to November) is arguably the best season. The temperatures are mild, the humidity drops, and the fall foliage is spectacular. Spring (April to May) is also beautiful but can be rainy and unpredictable.
Do I need special gear for hiking near St. Louis?
For most day hikes, you don’t need highly specialized gear. However, a pair of broken-in hiking shoes or boots with good traction is essential. The trails can be rocky and steep. Also, always carry the “Ten Essentials,” including water, a map, a headlamp, and a small first-aid kit.
Are there any good spots for camping near the city?
Absolutely. Meramec State Park and Hawn State Park, both about an hour’s drive away, offer excellent campgrounds with access to fantastic hiking trails. For a more rugged experience, you can find primitive camping in sections of the Mark Twain National Forest.
How can I stay safe from ticks and insects in Missouri?
Prevention is key. Use a repellent with DEET or picaridin on exposed skin. Wear light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to spot. Tuck your pants into your socks. And always, always do a full-body tick check after returning indoors. Finding and removing them quickly is the best defense.
St. Louis is an underrated hub for outdoor adventure, offering a surprising variety of landscapes to explore. The key is to know where to look and how to prepare.
You have the map and the knowledge. Now it’s time to gather your gear, pick a trail, and start exploring the wild, beautiful side of the Gateway City.
Stay safe, be prepared, and enjoy the adventure that’s waiting just outside your door.
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