Easy hikes and walks around Spanish Lake
5.0
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47
hikers
7
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Spanish Lake, Missouri, traverse a diverse landscape of lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic lakes. The region features varied ecosystems, including shallow wetlands, mature upland woodlands, and recreated tallgrass prairies. These natural settings provide accessible outdoor experiences for hikers.
Best easy hiking trails around Spanish Lake
- The most popular easy hiking route is Lakeside Trail, a 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 17 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the park's scenic lakes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Fort Bellefontaine Loop Trail, an easy 2.9 miles (4.7 km) path. This trail winds through woodlands and offers gentle elevation changes.
- Local hikers also love the MCT Confluence Trail, a 4.9 miles (7.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 59 minutes.
- Hiking around Spanish Lake is defined by wetlands, mature woodlands, and open prairies. The network offers options for different ability levels, all categorized as easy.
- The routes in Spanish Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. More than 40 hikers have used komoot to explore Spanish Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5.0
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19
hikers
4.68km
01:13
30m
30m
Easy 2.9-mile hike through diverse landscapes, historical ruins, and Missouri River views in Fort Bellefontaine County Park.
1
hikers
7.84km
01:59
10m
10m
Easy 4.9-mile hike on the MCT Confluence Trail, offering river views and diverse surfaces along the Mississippi.
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4.96km
01:17
30m
30m
Explore the easy 3.1-mile Lakeside Trail in Spanish Lake Park, offering scenic views of Sunfish Lake and Spanish Lake.
4.79km
01:13
10m
10m
The Maline Greenway offers a delightful, flat journey through Bella Fontaine Park in St. Louis, Missouri. This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking trail winds through varied scenery, from open parkland to upland woodlands and restored prairies, with a smooth asphalt surface underfoot. Keep an eye out along Maline Creek for beavers, herons, or egrets, especially near the Maple Tree Trail, and enjoy the unique storybook walk that changes seasonally.
Planning your visit to the Maline Greenway is straightforward, with ample parking available within Bella Fontaine Park. The trail's design includes an underpass that provides safe access and connects to public transit stops, making it convenient for many. With a minimal 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, this route is perfect for a leisurely 1 hour and 12 minutes outing, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Beyond the pleasant walk, the Maline Greenway serves as a vital community link, connecting local residents to the wider park network and its amenities like fishing in Fountain Lake, playgrounds, and picnic shelters. It's part of a larger vision to create an east-west connection across North St. Louis County, eventually linking over 350 acres of parkland and offering a glimpse into the region's natural restoration efforts.
5.0
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Step onto a piece of history with the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge loop, where you'll walk across the iconic Route 66 bridge that spans the Mississippi River. From this unique vantage point, you'll get expansive views of the river and its historic water intake towers, before exploring the diverse habitats of Chouteau Island. The paved bridge offers a smooth, easy surface, while the island's trails range from stable gravel paths like the Eagle Points Trail to potentially unkempt, muddy nature trails, providing a varied experience for birdwatchers and history buffs alike.
This easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hiking route, with only 8 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 48 minutes, making it a great option for a quick, scenic outing. Parking is conveniently located near the trailhead, ensuring easy access. While enjoyable in any season, consider visiting in winter for prime bald eagle viewing or during spring and fall for comfortable temperatures and lush scenery.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is an architectural marvel and a significant landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, known for its distinctive 30-degree bend. Chouteau Island itself is an ecological gem, offering crucial habitat for migratory birds and diverse wildlife. This loop connects to a larger network of trails, including the St. Louis Riverfront Trail, allowing for extended adventures if you wish to explore further.
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Tips from the Community
The water intake towers are a great sight. Definitely worth the ride. Go there on one side and return on the other of the mighty Mississippi.
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Great spot to rest, water and bathrooms, beautiful park.
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The MCT Confluence Trail is a beautiful 20.5 mile long trail. The trail mostly follows the Mississippi River. The trail is paved and mostly flat, so it is not a challenging trail. This section gives you great views of the river as you enter Alton.
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Riverfront Park is a great park on the banks of the Mississippi River in Alton. There is a paved biking and hiking trail that runs through the park. The park also has a large amphitheater, picnic area and restrooms.
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This is a spacious parkland featuring two playgrounds, trails, tennis courts, fishing, athletic fields and reservable shelters. The paths around the park are fully paved and accessible to all.
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This short, paved path connects the Bella Fontaine Park West with the Bella Fontaine Park East. It runs along a green avenue dotted with shady trees.
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This is a spacious parkland featuring two playgrounds, trails, tennis courts, fishing, athletic fields and reservable shelters. It's a wonderful place to get out in nature and enjoy a day with friends or family. The paths around the park are fully paved and accessible to all.
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A short detour leads you out to this viewpoint, where you can enjoy scenes over Sunfish Lake. The lake is great for walking and recreational fishing and provides the perfect location to get out in nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Spanish Lake?
There are 7 easy hiking trails around Spanish Lake, all offering accessible outdoor experiences through diverse landscapes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes around Spanish Lake?
Easy hikes around Spanish Lake, particularly within Spanish Lake Park, traverse a diverse landscape. You'll find lush forests, rolling hills, and scenic lakes, alongside shallow wetlands, mature upland woodlands, and recreated tallgrass prairies.
Are there any circular routes for easy hiking in the Spanish Lake area?
Yes, several easy circular routes are available. For example, the Fort Bellefontaine Loop Trail offers a pleasant 2.9-mile (4.7 km) loop through woodlands. Another option is the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge – Old Chain of Rocks Bridge loop from Chouteau Island, which is 2.0 miles (3.2 km).
What are some family-friendly easy trails around Spanish Lake?
Many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The Lakeside Trail is a paved, 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route offering scenic lake views, which is great for all ages. The Fort Bellefontaine Loop Trail is also a gentle option through woodlands.
What can I see along the easy hiking trails around Spanish Lake?
Beyond the natural beauty of wetlands, woodlands, and prairies, you can observe diverse wildlife such as bald eagles, herons, woodpeckers, deer, and foxes. Nearby attractions include the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge and the Confluence Tower and the Lewis & Clark Monument.
Are there any trails that offer viewpoints or scenic overlooks?
While the terrain is generally gentle, trails like the Lakeside Trail provide scenic views of the park's lakes. The area's diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and prairies, offer unique natural vistas and opportunities for wildlife observation.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Spanish Lake?
The easy hiking trails around Spanish Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse natural settings, including wetlands, woodlands, and prairies, and the accessibility of the routes.
How long do easy hikes around Spanish Lake typically take?
The duration of easy hikes varies. For instance, the Lakeside Trail typically takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete, while the MCT Confluence Trail can take around 1 hour and 59 minutes.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the easy hiking trails?
While the trails themselves are within natural settings, you can find amenities nearby. For example, the Luna Cafe (Route 66) is an option for refreshments in the vicinity.
What is the best time of year to visit Spanish Lake for easy hiking?
The diverse ecosystems, including woodlands and prairies, make Spanish Lake enjoyable across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors, while summer provides lush greenery. Even winter can be suitable for walks, especially on paved or well-maintained trails.
Are there any less crowded easy trails in the Spanish Lake area?
While specific crowd levels can vary, exploring trails like the Maline Greenway or the Fort Bellefontaine Loop Trail during off-peak hours or weekdays might offer a quieter experience.
What kind of elevation changes can I expect on easy hikes around Spanish Lake?
The easy hikes around Spanish Lake feature gentle elevation changes, making them accessible for most hikers. For example, the Fort Bellefontaine Loop Trail has an elevation gain of about 32 meters, while the MCT Confluence Trail has an even gentler gain of approximately 14 meters.
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