Easy hikes and walks around Parkdale

The Riverscene Trail in Castlewood State Park offers a delightful blend of dramatic bluff-top vistas and peaceful riverside strolls. This easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) hike, with a minimal 16 feet (5 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 43 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick, rewarding outing. You'll experience rugged cliffs, lush forests, and the tranquil Meramec River, all packed into a short, engaging loop.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early, especially on weekends, as Castlewood State Park is a popular destination in St. Louis County, Missouri. The trail is generally accessible year-round, but spring and autumn provide the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery for your Riverscene Trail hiking experience. Check current weather conditions before you head out.

What truly sets this trail apart are its unique features: panoramic views from bluffs over 200 feet high, a long wooden staircase descending to the floodplain, and a fascinating tunnel passing under active railroad tracks. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll also encounter remnants of the historic Castlewood resort era, adding a layer of intrigue to this highly-rated hike.

The Route 66 State Park Inner Loop offers a delightful and easy hike, guiding you through a mix of small wetlands, wooded sections, and open areas dotted with ponds. You'll experience varied terrain underfoot, from natural dirt and gravel to paved paths, all while enjoying views of the Meramec River and passing the historic, closed Route 66 bridge. This 2.4-mile (3.8 km) loop is an easy route with only 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 58 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessed from the park's visitor center. It's a great option if you're looking for family friendly dog friendly options, as leashed pets are welcome. While mostly flat, be aware that some sections might be slippery due to natural conditions, so wear appropriate footwear. This trail difficulty rating makes it perfect for beginners or a relaxed outing.

This trail is steeped in history, passing the significant "Town Mound" where the former town of Times Beach is buried, and celebrating the legacy of Route 66. It also provides connections to other popular routes like the Meremec Greenway, allowing for longer excursions if you wish to explore more of the 419-acre park.

The Riverscene Trail loop in Castlewood State Park offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and engaging terrain, making it one of the most popular trails in the area. You'll traverse dense forests, enjoy panoramic views from bluffs over 200 feet high overlooking the Meramec River valley, and wander along the river's shaded banks. The route, an easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hike with 158 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes, providing a rewarding experience for its duration.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round and dog-friendly, requiring leashed pets. The trailhead is within Castlewood State Park, and due to its popularity, arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends. You can choose to start with a steep climb to the bluffs or begin with a flatter section along the river, depending on your preference for tackling the elevation.

What truly sets this trail apart are its unique features, including iconic wooden staircases that descend from the bluffs, historical remnants of the park's past as a 1920s resort, and a distinctive passage through a tunnel under active Union Pacific railroad tracks. The diverse ecosystems, transitioning from bluff hardwoods to floodplain trees, also support abundant wildlife like deer and various bird species, adding to the trail's appeal.

The White Bison Trail offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, from winding earthen paths in dense woodlands to scenic stretches along the Lone Elk Reservoir Lake. You'll encounter some rocky sections and tree roots, but the overall 3.1-mile (4.9 km) loop with 206 feet (63 metres) of elevation gain is rated easy and takes about 1 hour and 19 minutes. Keep an eye out for vibrant wildflowers in spring and enjoy the expansive views from the observation tower.

To plan your visit, head to the visitor center at Lone Elk Park, where you'll find convenient parking. It's wise to wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can get muddy and slick after rain. Remember, due to the park's focus on wildlife, dogs are strictly not allowed on the White Bison Trail or any other trails within the park.

This trail's standout feature is its location within Lone Elk Park, a dedicated wildlife management area. This means frequent opportunities to spot elk, deer, geese, and turkey, making it a unique experience for nature lovers. While bison are typically seen upon entering the park, elk sightings are common directly on the trail, adding an exciting element to your hike.

The Lone Wolf Trail Loop in Castlewood State Park offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through shaded, fern-covered hillsides and along creek banks before climbing to bluffs. You will find yourself immersed in diverse flora, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like deer. The trail's standout feature is the panoramic view of the river valley from its higher points, a truly rewarding vista for such a short hike.

This easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) loop involves 162 feet (49 metres) of elevation gain and can be completed in about 48 minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick outdoor adventure. The trail is well-marked and accessible from dedicated parking within Castlewood State Park. While generally easy, expect some sections with exposed roots and loose rocks, so wear appropriate footwear.

Historically, the trail is named after the "Lone Wolf Club," a former speakeasy from the area's resort era, with only a stone fireplace remaining as a nod to its past. This route is a great way to experience the rugged beauty of Castlewood State Park and can be linked with other popular trails like the River Scene Trail for an extended exploration of the area's natural features.