Day Trips from St. Louis
← All St. Louis day tripsDay Trips from St. Louis: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of St. Louis, MO. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near St. Louis
Johnson's Shut-Ins State Park
Middle Brook, MO 63656
Just 1 hr 44 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 2,834 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Kress Farm Garden Preserve
Hillsboro, MO 63050
Just 43 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
River Scene Trail
MO 63021, USA
Just 33 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 353 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Devil’s Standtable Nature Trail
IL 62958, USA
Just 2 hrs 9 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 251 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve
IL 62295, USA
Just 35 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 429 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area
Ozark, IL 62972
Just 2 hrs 38 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 700 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ha Ha Tonka State Park
Camdenton, MO 65020
Just 2 hrs 49 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 5,589 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ferne Clyffe State Park
Goreville, IL 62939
Just 2 hrs 5 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 2,032 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pickle Springs Natural Area
New Offenburg, MO 63670
Just 1 hr 14 min from St. Louis, rated 4.8 stars by 802 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
John M Olin Nature Preserve (Nature Institute)
Godfrey, IL 62035
Just 46 min from St. Louis, rated 4.7 stars by 310 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Weldon Spring Conservation Area
St Charles, MO 63304
Just 37 min from St. Louis, rated 4.7 stars by 931 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Hickory Canyons Natural Area
MO 63670, USA
Just 1 hr 10 min from St. Louis, rated 4.7 stars by 416 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from St. Louis
What are the best hiking trails near St. Louis, MO?
The best hikes near St. Louis range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near St. Louis?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near St. Louis offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from St. Louis?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near St. Louis are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near St. Louis?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near St. Louis. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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