Missouri is known to have some pretty beautiful hiking trails, but the River Scene Trail in Castlewood State Park would have to be our favorite. This state park trail offers beautiful views of the Meramec River as you walk along limestone bluffs.
In the early 1900s, this area of land was a retreat for partying St. Louisians. But today, Castlewood is one of the most visited state parks in Missouri and instead of nightclubs, you’ll find beautiful hiking trails and river bluffs.
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Make sure you study the trailhead beforehand, as Castlewood offers a few different types of trails for cyclists and hikers alike.
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The River Scene Trail tends to be a favorite for its moderate difficulty rating and scenic views of the Meramec River.
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The 3-mile round trip trail starts through a forested hillside before turning uphill to the bluffs.
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This trail is especially beautiful to see during the fall when the leaves have changed colors.
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You’ll follow the edge of the bluffs for about a mile past scenic overlooks.
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Enjoy panoramic views of the Meramec River below you. Be sure to snap a photo!
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At the end of the bluff, a wooden boardwalk descends into the river valley.
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You’ll go through and old tunnel that crosses underneath the Union Pacific Railroad.
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For the last two miles, the trail remains level and you’ll pass through woodlands and a large open field.
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Have a favorite trail you like to hike? Let us know!
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Mona Maynard/flickr
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Picha M./Yelp
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