St. Louis is known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax or an exciting place to explore, there’s no shortage of parks and trails to choose from in the St. Louis area. In no particular order, we have:

1. Forest Park: Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, spanning over 1,300 acres in the heart of St. Louis. It’s home to several attractions, including the St. Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, and the St. Louis Art Museum. There are also several trails for walking, running, and biking, as well as lakes for fishing and boating.

2. Gateway Arch National Park: Gateway Arch National Park is home to the iconic Gateway Arch, a 630-foot stainless steel monument that’s become a symbol of St. Louis. It’s the smallest national park in the United States, and some have criticized its classification as a park, but as an iconic landmark we couldn’t leave it off our list.

3. Katy Trail State Park: The Katy Trail State Park is a 237-mile trail that spans across Missouri, with a portion of it running through St. Charles County in the St. Louis area. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, offering stunning views of the Missouri River and surrounding countryside.

4. Castlewood State Park: Castlewood State Park sits on both sides of the Meramec River. It’s located in Ballwin, Missouri, just a short drive from St. Louis. It offers over 1,800 acres of forested hills, scenic overlooks, and trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park is also a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.

5. Laumeier Sculpture Park: Laumeier Sculpture Park is a unique outdoor sculpture park located in Sunset Hills, Missouri, featuring over 70 contemporary sculptures spread throughout 105 acres of woodland and meadows. It also features several picnic areas and trails. Some of the artists featured include Alexander Liberman, Beverly Pepper, Dan Graham, Donald Judd, Mark di Suvero, Mary Miss, Niki de Saint Phalle, Jackie Ferrara, and Vito Acconci.

6. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park: Creve Coeur Park is a 2145-acre park located in Maryland Heights, Missouri, featuring Creve Coeur Lake, one of the largest natural lakes in Missouri. A trail runs around the lake, and the park also has facilities for picnicking, athletic fields, tennis courts, and even an archery course. Crystal Springs Quarry Golf Course is also located here, featuring an 18-hole course.

7. Shaw Nature Reserve: Shaw Nature Reserve is a 2,400-acre nature reserve located in Gray Summit, Missouri, just west of St. Louis. It features several walking trails and a wildflower garden, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

            Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, the St. louis area has plenty of parks and trails to explore. From the iconic Gateway Arch to the peaceful Laumeier Sculpture Park, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful region.