The best waterfall hikes and walks in St. Louis County
4.8
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1,855
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9
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Waterfall hiking trails in St. Louis County offer diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is characterized by stunning riverine environments, including dramatic limestone bluffs overlooking the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers. Extensive forests provide shaded trails, while restored prairies and natural glades add to the scenic beauty. Hikers can explore a variety of terrains, from gentle paths around lakes to more rugged woodland trails.
Best waterfall hiking trails in St. Louis County
- The most popular waterfall hiking route is Lakeview and Mallard Lake Loop Trail, a 5.7 miles (9.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 21 minutes to complete. This moderate route features varied terrain around the lakes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Forest Park Paths and Lagoons loop, a moderate 7.4 miles (11.9 km) path. This trail winds through the expansive urban park, showcasing its natural features and lagoons.
- Local hikers also love the Fee Fee Greenway and Creve Coeur Park Loop, a 12.0 miles (19.3 km) trail leading through woodlands and along the lake, often completed in about 4 hours 59 minutes.
- Hiking in St. Louis County is defined by riverine environments, dense woodlands, and restored prairies, offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in St. Louis County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 50 reviews. More than 1,100 hikers have used komoot to explore St. Louis County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
5.0
(3)
21
hikers
9.15km
02:21
40m
40m
Hike the moderate 5.7-mile Lakeview and Mallard Lake Loop Trail in Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, enjoying diverse terrain and lake views.
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11.9km
03:05
70m
70m
Embark on the Forest Park Paths and Lagoons loop, a moderate hike that guides you through lush woodlands, open prairies, and past the serene Jefferson Lake. This route spans 7.4 miles (11.9 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 214 feet (65 metres), offering a refreshing escape into nature. You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 5 minutes, making it an ideal option for a substantial urban outing. The trail provides a varied landscape, from shaded paths to expansive green spaces, ensuring a dynamic experience throughout your hike.
Planning your visit to Forest Park is straightforward, as the area is designed for easy access. You will find ample parking available throughout the park, making it convenient to start your adventure. The central location of the park also means it is easily reachable by various means of transport. The paths are well-maintained, featuring both asphalt and gravel surfaces, which makes the trail suitable for a wide range of hikers. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more tranquil experience.
This loop is celebrated as one of the most beautiful urban parks, seamlessly blending natural beauty with cultural richness. As you hike, you will encounter various cultural institutions and historical landmarks that add a unique charm to the park's environment. The presence of multiple picturesque water bodies, including lagoons, enhances the scenic appeal and provides excellent spots for reflection. It stands out as a significant natural haven within the city, offering a diverse ecosystem right at your doorstep.
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19.3km
05:00
110m
110m
Embark on the Fee Fee Greenway and Creve Coeur Park Loop, a moderate hiking route that spans 12.0 miles (19.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 363 feet (110 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 4 hours and 59 minutes. As you hike, you will experience varied scenery, from the tranquil Fee Fee Greenway, which follows Fee Fee Creek through native prairie grasses and marshlands, to the expansive Creve Coeur Lake. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and herons along the way.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is largely flat and well-maintained. While much of the route is paved, you will encounter some earthen trails, particularly within the Little Creve Coeur Ecological Area. Creve Coeur Park offers convenient amenities, including picnic shelters, playgrounds, and restrooms that are open year-round. You will find ample parking available at various access points around the park, making it easy to start your adventure.
This loop offers a diverse experience within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, transitioning from the peaceful greenway to the larger park environment. The landscape shifts to wetland and wooded areas as you encircle the sizable Creve Coeur Lake and the smaller Mallard Lake, both excellent spots for birdwatching. The accessibility and varied natural settings make this a notable trail for enjoying the outdoors in the region.
4.8
(4)
74
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
83
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Creve Coeur Lake is a 320-acre lake located in Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. The park dates back to 1945 and now offers a place for picnics, non-motorized boating, and fishing.
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This is a scenic lake on the south side of Creve Couer Lake Park. There are options to do a running loop around the lake and marsh joining onto Creve Couer Lake to the north, or follow Creve Couer Connector to the Veteran's Memorial Bridge.
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Scenic lake park with many great amenities and sites including the namesake lake and Dripping Springs waterfall The primary MTB trail called Bootleggers Run is a fun, well maintained trail with tight turns and nice berms that provides for a fun fast ride.
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Creve Coeur Lake is a 320-acre lake located in Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. The park dates back to 1945 and now offers a place for picnics, non-motorized boating, and fishing.
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Here is a stunning view of Creve Coeur Lake. It's a great place to stop and take a break before heading onwards.
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Creve Coeur Lake is the ideal place for a jog. It features a paved footpath that circles the entire lake, numerous shelters and water fountains, public toilets, and most importantly, incredible scenery of water, wildlife and forestry to take your mind off the challenge.
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Creve Coeur Lake is a 320-acre lake located in Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. The park dates back to 1945 and now offers a place for picnics, non-motorized boating, and fishing.
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Jefferson Lake is situated in the very east of the huge Forest Park in St. Louis. There are multiple picnic areas around the lake to enjoy a great natural setting in the city. The lake is a famous spot for fishing and the paths leading around the lake (and the rest of the park), are perfect for jogging.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in St. Louis County?
There are currently 9 waterfall hiking trails documented in St. Louis County on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to more moderate hikes through diverse landscapes.
What is the best time of year to see waterfalls in St. Louis County?
The best time to experience the waterfalls in St. Louis County is typically during spring after snowmelt or heavy rains, and in late fall or early winter when foliage is sparse, making the falls more visible. Summer can also be good, especially after significant rainfall, but some smaller falls might be reduced to trickles during dry spells.
Are there any easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, St. Louis County offers several easy waterfall hikes. For instance, the Creve Coeur Lake – View of Creve Coeur Lake loop from Tremayne Shelter is an easy 4.2-mile route, and the View of Creve Coeur Lake – Creve Coeur Lake loop from Creve Coeur Lake is another easy option at 3.8 miles. These trails are generally less strenuous and suitable for a wider range of abilities.
Can I bring my dog on waterfall hiking trails in St. Louis County?
Many parks and conservation areas in St. Louis County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails if kept on a leash. For example, areas like Castlewood State Park and Rockwoods Reservation, known for their scenic trails, often permit leashed dogs.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along waterfall trails in St. Louis County?
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you'll encounter a rich variety of natural features. The region is known for its stunning riverine environments, dramatic limestone bluffs overlooking the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers, and extensive forests. You might also explore restored prairies, natural glades, and wetlands, offering diverse flora and fauna. Some trails, like those near Creve Coeur Lake, also feature beautiful lake views, such as the Sunset View of Creve Coeur Lake.
Are there any loop trails that feature waterfalls?
Yes, many of the waterfall hikes in St. Louis County are loop trails, providing a varied experience without retracing your steps. For example, the Lakeview and Mallard Lake Loop Trail is a moderate 5.7-mile loop that takes you around scenic lakes and through varied terrain.
What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails in St. Louis County?
The waterfall hiking trails in St. Louis County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained paths, and the peaceful natural settings, especially the riverine environments and dense woodlands.
Are there any specific parks known for their waterfalls or scenic beauty in St. Louis County?
While specific named waterfalls can be elusive and seasonal, parks like Castlewood State Park, Cliff Cave County Park, and Rockwoods Reservation are renowned for their scenic beauty, diverse trails, and potential for seasonal water features. Creve Coeur Lake Park also offers beautiful lake views and trails like the Fee Fee Greenway and Creve Coeur Park Loop.
What should I wear for a waterfall hike in St. Louis County?
Given the varied terrain, which can include rocky and rooty sections, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip are recommended. Dressing in layers is also advisable, as conditions can change, especially near water features. Depending on the season, waterproof outerwear might be beneficial.
Are there any long-distance waterfall hikes in the area?
While many trails are moderate in length, you can find longer options. The Fee Fee Greenway and Creve Coeur Park Loop, for example, is a moderate 12.0-mile trail that takes nearly 5 hours to complete, offering a more extended hiking experience through woodlands and along the lake.
Are there any urban parks with waterfall features in St. Louis County?
While not exclusively in St. Louis County, Forest Park, a massive urban park, offers miles of trails, woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Its Forest Park Paths and Lagoons loop is a moderate 7.4-mile path that winds through the park, showcasing its natural features and lagoons, which can include small cascades or water features depending on the season.
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