The best walks and hikes around Wood River
5.0
(1)
40
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking around Wood River features a network of trails primarily located near riverfronts and within local parks and nature centers. The landscape is characterized by gentle elevations, often following waterways and offering accessible paths through natural settings. This region provides opportunities for easy walks, with routes frequently passing through established parklands and along riverbanks.
Best hiking trails around Wood River
- The most popular hiking route is Fort Belle Fontaine Park loop, a 2.9 miles (4.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 13 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the grounds of a historic park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Riverfront Park via MCT Confluence Trail — Alton, an easy 4.9 miles (7.8 km) path. This trail offers views along the riverfront, connecting to a multi-use trail.
- Local hikers also love the MCT Quercus Grove Trail — Edwardsville, a 3.2 miles (5.1 km) trail leading through a natural grove, often completed in about 1 hour 18 minutes.
- Hiking around Wood River is defined by riverfront paths, local park trails, and nature center loops. The network offers options primarily for easy ability levels, suitable for casual walks.
- The routes in Wood River are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 1 review. More than 29 hikers have used komoot to explore Wood River's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
6
hikers
9.06km
02:22
50m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
20
hikers
4.68km
01:13
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
hikers
1.87km
00:29
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.84km
01:59
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.11km
01:18
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Wood River
Tips from the Community
Edwardsville is a historic city in Illinois. It was first settled in 1805 by Thomas Kirkpatrick. There are 39 buildings in the city that are listed as historic buildings and are mostly located in the downtown area.
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The MCT Quercus Grove Trail is a great, almost 20 mile long trail, that runs from Edwardsville to Staunton. The trail is a mix of paved and crushed limestone. This section runs through a nice treeline section of Edwardsville.
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The MCT Confluence Trail is a beautiful 20.5 mile long trail. The trail mostly follows the Mississippi River. The trail is paved and mostly flat, so it is not a challenging trail. This section gives you great views of the river as you enter Alton.
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Riverfront Park is a great park on the banks of the Mississippi River in Alton. There is a paved biking and hiking trail that runs through the park. The park also has a large amphitheater, picnic area and restrooms.
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Hoppe Park is a great 10-acre green space. It is the second-largest community park in Edwardsville. The park has a playground, picnic area and nature trail.
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The Watershed Nature Center is a 46-acre nature preserve. It is made up of wetlands, tall grass prairie, and upland forests. There is a large pond in the center of the park.
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Fort Belle Fontaine Park in St. Louis is a historic park that encompasses the site of the first United States military installation west of the Mississippi River. It has scenic views over the Missouri River and a circular footpath that takes you around the entire park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect in the Wood River area?
Hiking around Wood River primarily features trails with gentle elevations, often following waterways and passing through local parks and nature centers. The landscape is characterized by accessible paths, making it ideal for easy walks and casual exploration.
How many hiking trails are available in Wood River?
There are several hiking routes available in the Wood River area. komoot currently lists 5 distinct trails, all categorized as easy, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for a short walk?
Yes, for an easy loop, consider the Fort Belle Fontaine Park loop. This 2.9-mile (4.7 km) trail explores the historic park grounds and typically takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete.
What are some popular trails that offer river views?
The Riverfront Park via MCT Confluence Trail — Alton is a popular choice, offering scenic views along the riverfront. This easy 4.9-mile (7.8 km) path connects to a multi-use trail, providing a pleasant experience by the water.
Are there any trails that go through natural groves or preserves?
Absolutely. The MCT Quercus Grove Trail — Edwardsville is a 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trail that leads through a natural grove, offering a serene environment for hikers. Another option is the Watershed Nature Center loop — Edwardsville, which provides a shorter, easy walk through a natural setting.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Wood River?
The trails in Wood River are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average score of 5.0 stars from reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility and pleasant natural settings of the routes.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see near the hiking trails?
Near the hiking trails, you can explore several interesting landmarks. Consider visiting the Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument, or the impressive Melvin Price Locks and Dam. The Clark Bridge also offers a notable sight.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the trails?
Yes, for a quick stop, you might find the Luna Cafe (Route 66) to be a convenient option near some of the area's attractions.
Is the Wood River Trail mentioned in the region research the same as the trails listed here?
The Wood River Trail, often referred to as 'the bike path' in the region research, is a 20-plus mile paved multi-use path connecting communities like Bellevue, Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley in Idaho. The trails listed in this guide, such as the Riverfront Park via MCT Confluence Trail — Alton, are located in the Wood River area of Illinois/Missouri and are distinct from the Idaho trail.
Where can I find more information about the broader Wood River Valley region in Idaho?
For more information about the Wood River Valley in Idaho, including its diverse landscapes and extensive trail systems, you can visit external resources such as visitsunvalley.com or visitidaho.org.
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