The best walks and hikes around St. Ann
4.9
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254
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Hikes around St. Ann feature a landscape of rolling hills, dense tropical forests, and numerous rivers that create notable waterfalls. The region's terrain is primarily defined by its limestone geology, with trails often leading through lush vegetation to river crossings and viewpoints. Many routes are centered around popular natural attractions like Dunn's River Falls and the Blue Hole, offering a mix of guided and independent hiking trails.
Best hiking trails around St. Ann
- The most popular hiking route is Creve Couer Lake and Mallard Lake loop — St. Louis, Missouri, a 5.7 mile (9.2 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This route follows a generally flat path around two lakes.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Mallard Lake loop — Creve Couer Lake Park, an easy 2.6 mile (4.2 km) path. The trail is mostly paved and suitable for all skill levels.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Ruth Park Nature Trail from Kaufman Park, a 2.3 mile (3.7 km) trail leading through woodland, often completed in about 55 minutes.
- Hiking around St. Ann is defined by its waterfall hikes, river trails, and forested paths. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly walking trails to more moderate routes.
- The routes in St. Ann are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 200 hikers have used komoot to explore St. Ann's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
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3
hikers
2.20km
00:34
20m
20m
The McDonnell Trail offers a delightful, easygoing experience through the James S. McDonnell Memorial County Park in St. Ann, Missouri. This paved loop winds gently through forested sections and open parkland, providing a pleasant backdrop for a leisurely walk. You'll find yourself passing by playgrounds and following a tranquil creek, making it a serene escape within an urban setting.
Accessing the trail is simple, with ample parking available directly at the park. As a family-friendly route, it's well-suited for all ages and abilities, and you'll appreciate the convenience of accessible paths and on-site restrooms. Given its short 34-minute duration, it's an ideal choice for a quick, refreshing outing at any time of day.
This 1.4-mile (2.2 km) hiking route, with its minimal 50 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy nature without a strenuous effort. The park itself is named in honor of James S. McDonnell, founder of McDonnell Douglas, adding a touch of local history to your walk. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed family stroll or a gentle introduction to hiking.
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4.96km
01:17
30m
30m
The Fee Fee Greenway offers a tranquil escape into nature, following the winding Fee Fee Creek through St. Louis County. You'll find a mix of smooth, paved surfaces and shaded, unpaved nature paths that invite you to explore deeper into the woods. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, especially near the creek, which has undergone restoration efforts to enhance its natural beauty and attract diverse fauna.
This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike involves a minimal 111 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, typically taking about 1 hour and 17 minutes. The trail is well-equipped with amenities like playgrounds, picnic tables, and restrooms, and it connects to Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park, offering extended exploration opportunities. Parking is readily available at multiple access points along the greenway.
What makes the Fee Fee Greenway truly stand out is its role as a gateway to a much larger network; it's part of the Great Rivers Greenway, allowing you to connect to trails around Creve Coeur Lake, the Creve Coeur Connector Trail, and even the Katy Trail for an uninterrupted journey of up to 16 miles. The creek itself holds a unique history, named after a local farmer from the late 1700s, adding a touch of local lore to your outdoor adventure.
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5.0
(3)
2
hikers
4.16km
01:07
50m
40m
Embark on an easy hike along the Truman Park Trail, a peaceful route offering a quiet escape into nature. You will find yourself on a mostly shady path with gentle rolling hills, providing a comfortable experience for all skill levels. As you follow the trail, enjoy pleasant views of Audubon Creek winding through the park, creating a serene backdrop for your outing. This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) path involves a modest 157 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain, making it a relaxing journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Truman Park Trail is straightforward. The route is easily accessible, starting from the fishing pond located at the north end of Harry S. Truman Park. You will generally find parking available within the park itself, ensuring convenient trailhead access. There are no specific permits or fees required to enjoy this trail, allowing for a spontaneous and hassle-free outdoor experience. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day for the most comfortable hike.
The Truman Park Trail is nestled within Harry S. Truman Park, providing a dedicated space for outdoor recreation. This trail is notable for its versatility, welcoming not only hikers but also those who prefer to bike, making it suitable for various users seeking a quiet outing. The park setting ensures a tranquil environment, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural surroundings without significant distractions. It serves as an excellent option for a quick nature break or a leisurely stroll.
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Embark on an easy hike along the Saint Stanislaus Trail, a short route covering 0.9 miles (1.4 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 4 feet (1 metres). This quick outing, taking approximately 21 minutes, guides you through a mix of wetlands, dense forests, and open fields within the conservation area. As you walk, you'll encounter the historic Charbonier Bluff, offering expansive views over the Missouri River bottoms. Keep an eye out for the remnants of old building foundations from the former Saint Stanislaus Seminary, adding a historical layer to your journey. The trail provides a pleasant and varied experience for a brief escape into nature.
Before you head out, be aware that lower sections of the conservation area can experience flooding, particularly during spring, which might result in muddy and slick conditions on the trail. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before your visit to ensure a smooth experience. Parking is generally available at the conservation area, making access straightforward. Some sections of the trail are paved and disabled-accessible, offering options for various visitors.
This trail is nestled within the Saint Stanislaus Conservation Area, a place rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. Beyond the diverse ecosystems you'll traverse, the area holds echoes of its past as the site of the Saint Stanislaus Seminary. The trail also offers glimpses towards the Bryan Island Chute in its lower sections, connecting you to the broader Missouri River landscape. It's a notable spot for a short, accessible walk with a blend of natural and historical points of interest.
5.0
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23
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9.15km
02:21
40m
40m
The Lakeview and Mallard Lake Loop Trail offers a delightful blend of scenery, guiding you from paved paths along Creve Coeur Lake into natural, unpaved sections that wind through bottomland woodlands, seeps, and marshes. You'll encounter diverse ecosystems, from lush swampy areas to natural rock walls with orange and yellow hues, and even small caves in the white rock of the cliffs. Keep an eye out for various bird species around Mallard Lake and the wetlands, especially in spring and fall.
Planning your visit is easy, with convenient parking located right by the Lakehouse Cafe. This moderate 5.7-mile (9.2 km) route, with a gentle 124 feet (38 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to complete. While some sections are easy, the varied terrain, including rocky parts and climbs to bluffs, contributes to its moderate difficulty, making it suitable for hikers with some experience.
This trail boasts a rich history, with a portion following the route of an old ice railroad, where large ice blocks were once transported from the lake. Beyond its historical significance, the Lakeview and Mallard Lake Loop Trail distance and elevation make it an accessible yet engaging option for wildlife viewing and exploring unique geological features, including cliffside drip falls, all within a diverse natural setting.
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Tips from the Community
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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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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Mallard Lake is a treasure for birdwatchers. It occupies the south end of Creve Couer Lake Park and acts as a catch-basin of sorts to contain sediment before it washes into the larger Creve Couer Lake. As such, you may notice that the waters of Creve Couer Lake are much clearer than the waters of Mallard Lake.
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This is the largest lake in St. Louis County, and the second-largest lake in all of Missouri. Keep an eye out for sailboats on the lake when the wind is really blowing!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty of hiking trails in St. Ann?
Most trails in the St. Ann area are considered easy, with a few moderate options available. The terrain is often characterized by rolling hills and forested paths. Out of the 11 main routes, 9 are rated as easy and 2 are moderate, with no trails currently classified as difficult.
Are there any family-friendly walking trails in St. Ann?
Yes, the region is well-suited for family outings. A great option is the Mallard Lake loop — Creve Couer Lake Park. It's an easy, mostly paved path that is suitable for all skill levels and ages.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around St. Ann?
The landscape around St. Ann is defined by its lush tropical forests, rolling hills, and numerous rivers that often lead to waterfalls. The trails frequently pass through dense vegetation and offer a mix of river crossings and scenic viewpoints. The area's limestone geology shapes much of the terrain.
Are there guided hiking tours available in St. Ann?
Yes, guided tours are a popular way to explore St. Ann, especially for its famous waterfall hikes like Dunn's River Falls. Guides can provide safety, local knowledge, and historical context. However, there are also many independent trails you can explore on your own.
Can I find circular or loop trails in the area?
Absolutely. If you prefer to end your hike where you started without retracing your steps, the Shaw Park loop is a popular choice. It's a straightforward and pleasant walk through the park.
What should I wear for hiking in St. Ann?
Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate. For footwear, sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals with good grip are essential, especially for trails involving river crossings or wet, rocky surfaces like those at the waterfalls. Bringing a waterproof layer is also a good idea for unexpected rain showers.
Are there any longer, more moderate hikes available?
Yes, for those seeking a longer walk, the Creve Couer Lake and Mallard Lake loop — St. Louis, Missouri is a great moderate option. It's a 5.7-mile (9.2 km) route that typically takes over 2 hours to complete, offering a more substantial hiking experience.
How many hiking trails are featured in the St. Ann guide?
There are around a dozen curated hikes and walks available around St. Ann, providing a good variety for different fitness levels and interests. These routes have been explored by over 200 komoot users.
What do other hikers think of the trails in St. Ann?
The trails in St. Ann are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the region's beautiful natural attractions, particularly the waterfalls and lush tropical scenery found along the paths.
Are there trails that go through woodlands or forests?
Yes, many trails lead through forested areas. For a route that specifically takes you through pleasant woodlands, consider the Ruth Park Nature Trail from Kaufman Park. It's a relatively short and easy trail perfect for a peaceful walk among the trees.
Can I combine a hike with other activities in the area?
Yes, many trails are located near popular attractions. For example, you can easily combine a hike with a visit to Dunn's River Falls or the Blue Hole, where swimming is a major draw. The Shaw Park loop via Centennial Greenway — Clayton, Missouri is another route that passes through a well-known local park with various amenities.
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