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Cliff Cave County Park Loop

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Hiking trails & Routes

Cliff Cave County Park Loop

Easy

4.6

(1303)

19,479

hikers

Cliff Cave County Park Loop

Q: How long does it typically take to complete this loop?

This loop is designed to be an easy hike, and most people can complete it in approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.

Q: Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, with an 'easy' difficulty rating, this loop is very suitable for beginners and families. It primarily follows paved surfaces, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors.

Q: What is the terrain like on this route?

The route predominantly follows the paved Mississippi Greenway Trail, offering a mostly flat and smooth asphalt surface. This makes for an easy and comfortable walking experience.

Q: What can I see along the way?

You'll enjoy diverse scenery, including woodlands and views of the Mississippi River. Key highlights along the route include a River overlook and the entrance to the historic Cliff Cave itself, from which a stream flows.

Q: Where can I park to access the trail?

Cliff Cave County Park offers several parking lots with paved paths connecting to the trail system. You can find convenient parking near the main entrance or other designated areas within the park.

Q: Does this loop connect with other trails in the park?

Yes, this route is entirely part of the Mississippi Greenway trail. It also intersects with other sections of the broader Cliff Cave County Park Trail system, offering options to extend your hike if desired.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails at Cliff Cave County Park. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike here?

No, there are no specific permits required, nor is there an entrance fee to access Cliff Cave County Park or its trails. The park is open to the public for enjoyment.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and migratory birds, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. Summer is pleasant, but be mindful of heat and humidity. Winter hiking is also possible, but check conditions for ice or snow.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I spot?

The park is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for migratory birds, Great Blue Herons, Egrets, wild turkeys, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, and deer, especially in the quieter woodland sections.

01:26

5.29km

60m

Hiking

The Cliff Cave County Park Loop offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a popular route for a relaxed outing. You'll wander through diverse woodlands and wetlands, experiencing the park's unique karst topography. The trail provides excellent views of the Mississippi River from various points, including a dedicated overlook, and takes you past the impressive Cliff Cave itself. It's an easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike with only 198 feet (60 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hours and 25 minutes.

Planning your visit to Cliff Cave County Park is straightforward, as it's generally accessible year-round. The park features a mix of paved and natural surface trails, so be prepared for potentially muddy sections after rain, especially on the natural paths. Parking is available at the trailhead, and arriving earlier in the day can help ensure a spot, particularly on weekends. This trail is family-friendly and suitable for most fitness levels, offering a rewarding experience without significant challenges.

Beyond the scenic river views and the historic Cliff Cave, the park is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot beavers, various waterfowl, and even bald eagles during the winter months. The area's rich history, from Native American use to French fur trappers, adds another layer of interest to your hike. This loop is an excellent choice if you're looking for a varied and engaging outdoor experience in the St. Louis area, combining natural beauty with cultural significance.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

2.33 km

Tweed Prairie

Nature Reserve

4.27 km

River overlook

Highlight • Viewpoint

When the trees are bare, you can get a pretty overlook for the Mississippi River from this viewpoint.

Tip by

4.73 km

Cliff Cave

Highlight • Cave

A 525 acre park with two primary mtb trails. The Spring Valley Trail is a flowy beginner level trail that rolls in and around the trees. The River Bluff Trail is a more technical loop that flows through rock gardens and a ledge drop. Both take you through heavily wooded areas with ponds, sinkholes, and a variety of wildlife.

Tip by

5.29 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.18 km

1.55 km

555 m

Surfaces

2.87 km

1.48 km

386 m

283 m

153 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 11 August

36°C

24°C

17 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to complete this loop?

This loop is designed to be an easy hike, and most people can complete it in approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.

Is this trail suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, with an 'easy' difficulty rating, this loop is very suitable for beginners and families. It primarily follows paved surfaces, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors.

What is the terrain like on this route?

The route predominantly follows the paved Mississippi Greenway Trail, offering a mostly flat and smooth asphalt surface. This makes for an easy and comfortable walking experience.

What can I see along the way?

You'll enjoy diverse scenery, including woodlands and views of the Mississippi River. Key highlights along the route include a River overlook and the entrance to the historic Cliff Cave itself, from which a stream flows.

Where can I park to access the trail?

Cliff Cave County Park offers several parking lots with paved paths connecting to the trail system. You can find convenient parking near the main entrance or other designated areas within the park.

Does this loop connect with other trails in the park?

Yes, this route is entirely part of the Mississippi Greenway trail. It also intersects with other sections of the broader Cliff Cave County Park Trail system, offering options to extend your hike if desired.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails at Cliff Cave County Park. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike here?

No, there are no specific permits required, nor is there an entrance fee to access Cliff Cave County Park or its trails. The park is open to the public for enjoyment.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and migratory birds, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage. Summer is pleasant, but be mindful of heat and humidity. Winter hiking is also possible, but check conditions for ice or snow.

What kind of wildlife might I spot?

The park is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for migratory birds, Great Blue Herons, Egrets, wild turkeys, foxes, rabbits, squirrels, and deer, especially in the quieter woodland sections.

Are there restrooms or water available along the route?

Yes, Cliff Cave County Park provides year-round restrooms and picnic areas, typically located near parking lots and trailheads. It's always a good idea to carry your own water, especially on warmer days.