Dennis Schick Trail Loop

The Dennis Schick Trail Loop is located within Jefferson Barracks County Park in Lemay, Missouri. Parking is generally available within the park itself, providing convenient access to the trailheads. For specific parking areas, it's best to consult the park's official website or signage upon arrival.

Yes, the trail is broadly considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for beginners and families. The Dennis Schick Trail South section, which is just over a mile long, is particularly flat and family-friendly. The park also features playground activities for children along the trail.

The trail winds through a pleasant mix of woods and open fields. While generally flat, you'll encounter some rolling undulations and moderately hilly sections, especially if you connect to the Dennis Schick Trail North. Parts of the trail are paved, and you'll walk among some of the largest trees in St. Louis County, including burr oaks and red oaks. Keep an eye out for several sinkholes along the northern segment.

The area is rich in wildlife. You might frequently spot deer, which can be quite tame, as well as foxes, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and wild turkeys. A large field along the northern trail is an excellent spot for observing deer, especially in the early morning or evening.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer provides lush greenery and shade in wooded sections, while winter can offer a serene, quiet experience. Consider visiting in the early morning or evening for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and wildlife. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

As of current information, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access Jefferson Barracks County Park or to hike the Dennis Schick Trail Loop. However, it's always a good idea to check the official St. Louis County Parks website (stlouiscountymo.gov) for any updated regulations or special event fees before your visit.

As part of Jefferson Barracks Park, the trail passes by various historical sites and displays, including war machinery like a World War II Sherman Tank. Informative signs along the path share the history of Jefferson Barracks. You can also visit the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, which is a highlight along the route.

Yes, the Dennis Schick Trail Loop offers excellent connectivity. You can hike it as a single loop or connect it to the Dennis Schick Trail North to create a larger 'figure eight' route. It also provides access to the Mississippi River Greenway Trail for extended excursions, potentially offering river views.

Yes, St. Louis County has installed outdoor workout equipment and playground activities for children along the trail. You might also spot unique 'corkball fields,' dedicated to a mini-baseball game that originated in St. Louis, adding to the recreational options.

For the best chance to spot wildlife, particularly deer, plan your hike for the early morning or evening hours. The large field along the northern trail segment is a prime location for observing them. If you're looking for a slightly more challenging experience, combine the North and South sections to form a larger loop, as the North section includes some noticeable ascents and descents.