Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Grant's Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

Grant's Trail

Moderate

4.8

(4756)

10,123

hikers

Grant's Trail

Q: What is the terrain like on Grant's Trail?

The trail is predominantly flat and non-technical, as it was built on a former railroad line. It is entirely paved and well-maintained, making it suitable for various activities. While mostly flat, some sections, particularly near the eastern end, may have a slight uphill grade.

Q: What can I see along the route?

The trail offers diverse scenery, including wooded areas, open fields, and creek crossings. You'll encounter natural elements like pine and oak forests, and sections passing through old rock cuts. Notable points of interest include the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site , and the trail also passes by Grant's Farm, known for its Clydesdales. You'll also find parks like Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park .

Q: Are there any historical sites or landmarks along the trail?

Yes, the trail is rich in history. It honors former President Ulysses S. Grant and follows a historic railroad path. A major highlight is the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site , which was one of Grant's former homes. You can also see remnants of its industrial past, such as old rock cuts.

Q: Where can I park to access Grant's Trail?

Parking is available at multiple trailheads along the route. A convenient option is Union Road Country Park , which offers dedicated parking facilities for trail users.

Q: Is Grant's Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, as a multi-use paved trail, it is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Grant's Trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for hiking, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. In spring, you'll also see abundant native wildflowers blooming along the route.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Grant's Trail?

No, there is no permit or entrance fee required to access Grant's Trail itself. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions like the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, check their official website for any potential entrance fees or operating hours.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route is part of the Great Rivers Greenway system and connects with other trails. It primarily follows the Gravois Greenway and also links with sections of the River des Peres Greenway.

Q: Are there restrooms and water available along the trail?

Yes, the trail is well-equipped with amenities. Restrooms and drinking water facilities are available at various points along the route, making it convenient for longer outings.

Q: Is the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site accessible from the trail, and are there any fees?

The trail runs parallel to the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site , making it easily accessible. For information on entrance fees, operating hours, and specific regulations for the historic site, it's best to check the official National Park Service website at nps.gov .

04:59

19.5km

50m

Hiking

Embark on a moderate hike along Grant's Trail, a 12.1-mile (19.5 km) route that follows a historic railroad bed through St. Louis County. You will experience a gentle journey with only 171 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for many. Expect to spend around 4 hours and…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

8.24 km

Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site

Highlight • Historical Site

This national historic site marks where General (and later President) Ulysses S. Grant met his future wife, and where they lived for some time. Although Grant is known as the …

Tip by

10.4 km

Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park

Highlight • Rest Area

In 2016, this park is named in honor of a St. Louis County police officer who was killed in the line of duty. It has a playground, athletic fields, several …

Tip by

10.4 km

Grant's Trail

Highlight • Trail

Grant's Trail is a 10-mile long multi-use trail that stretches through the south and southwest of St Louis County. It's fully paved making it accessible to all and connects a number of great parks and green spaces.

Tip by

12.2 km

Scenic Stretch of Grant’s Trail

Highlight • Cycleway

Scenic stretch of Grant’s Trail. Also, there are way fewer roads crossing here than on the parts further up to the Northwest.

Tip by

13.6 km

Union Road Country Park

Highlight • Parking

This is a lovely park along Grant's Trail with the Gravois Creek flowing right through it. You can jump off the pathway and into the park and catch your breath on the grassy patch next to the water.

Tip by

19.5 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

19.3 km

139 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

18.0 km

1.13 km

350 m

Elevation

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

Highest point (180 m)

Lowest point (120 m)

Weather

Today

Saturday 16 May

28°C

21°C

80 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on Grant's Trail?

The trail is predominantly flat and non-technical, as it was built on a former railroad line. It is entirely paved and well-maintained, making it suitable for various activities. While mostly flat, some sections, particularly near the eastern end, may have a slight uphill grade.

What can I see along the route?

The trail offers diverse scenery, including wooded areas, open fields, and creek crossings. You'll encounter natural elements like pine and oak forests, and sections passing through old rock cuts. Notable points of interest include the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, and the trail also passes by Grant's Farm, known for its Clydesdales. You'll also find parks like Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park.

Are there any historical sites or landmarks along the trail?

Yes, the trail is rich in history. It honors former President Ulysses S. Grant and follows a historic railroad path. A major highlight is the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, which was one of Grant's former homes. You can also see remnants of its industrial past, such as old rock cuts.

Where can I park to access Grant's Trail?

Parking is available at multiple trailheads along the route. A convenient option is Union Road Country Park, which offers dedicated parking facilities for trail users.

Is Grant's Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, as a multi-use paved trail, it is generally dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.

What is the best time of year to visit Grant's Trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for hiking, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. In spring, you'll also see abundant native wildflowers blooming along the route.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for Grant's Trail?

No, there is no permit or entrance fee required to access Grant's Trail itself. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions like the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, check their official website for any potential entrance fees or operating hours.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route is part of the Great Rivers Greenway system and connects with other trails. It primarily follows the Gravois Greenway and also links with sections of the River des Peres Greenway.

Are there restrooms and water available along the trail?

Yes, the trail is well-equipped with amenities. Restrooms and drinking water facilities are available at various points along the route, making it convenient for longer outings.

Is the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site accessible from the trail, and are there any fees?

The trail runs parallel to the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site, making it easily accessible. For information on entrance fees, operating hours, and specific regulations for the historic site, it's best to check the official National Park Service website at nps.gov.

Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. Its predominantly flat, paved surface and multi-use nature make it very family-friendly. There are also parks like Blake C. Snyder Memorial Park with playgrounds accessible from the trail, adding to its appeal for families.