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River Des Peres Park is a sprawling 145-acre municipal park located in St. Louis, Missouri, serving as a vital greenway along the western boundary between St. Louis City and St. Louis County. Situated at an elevation of 133 meters, this urban oasis follows the banks of the River Des Peres, offering a natural escape within the city. Established by city ordinance in 1926, the park is nestled near the St. Louis Hills, Lindenwood Park, and Princeton Heights neighborhoods, making it…
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September 11, 2023
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near River Des Peres Park

14.5km
03:42
40m
40m
Hike the moderate 9.0-mile River des Peres Greenway in St. Louis, offering paved paths, park connections, and urban wildlife.
Details
Informations
Elevation 130 m
River Des Peres Park offers a variety of recreational facilities including Fultz Field for baseball, dedicated soccer fields, and softball fields which can be reserved. There's also a well-equipped playground, bike racks, benches, and trash cans. However, it's important to note that the park currently lacks public restrooms.
The park is accessible by public transport, with the Shrewsbury Metrolink station located nearby. For those arriving by car, parking can be limited, often requiring visitors to park on nearby residential streets. Walking or biking into the park is a popular and convenient alternative.
Yes, the park features paved shared trails that wind through the area and connect to the broader River Des Peres Greenway. These well-maintained paths are generally suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering an accessible way to enjoy the park's natural beauty.
Yes, the paved shared trails within River Des Peres Park and along the River Des Peres Greenway are suitable for dog walking. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for all visitors.
The park boasts several unique natural features, including a rain garden planted with water-loving species like bald cypress. Additionally, you'll find 'living walls' on bridge retaining walls, where perennials are planted in patterned spaces, providing both visual interest and a cooling effect.
Families will find plenty to do at River Des Peres Park. It features a well-equipped playground for children, open fields for informal games, and paved trails perfect for family walks or bike rides. The park's connection to the River Des Peres Greenway also allows for longer, scenic excursions.
River Des Peres Park itself offers a network of paved shared trails. These trails connect to the much larger River Des Peres Greenway, which stretches for miles along the river. The trails within the park are generally flat and considered easy, suitable for all fitness levels, from leisurely strolls to moderate cycling.
While the park itself does not have cafes or pubs, it is nestled within the St. Louis Hills and Lindenwood Park neighborhoods. These areas offer various local establishments, including restaurants and cafes, within a short distance. For accommodation, several hotels are available in the wider St. Louis area.
The mild weather of spring and fall is ideal for leisurely walks, invigorating runs, and cycling. During summer, the open fields are great for informal activities, though it can get warm. Winter offers a different experience, with the trails still accessible for walks, though fewer organized activities might be available.
River Des Peres Park was officially established in 1926, with its development closely linked to the River Des Peres. Historically, the river meandered through the area but was largely channeled and, in parts, buried underground between the 1920s and 1930s for sanitary and stormwater management. The park's greenway trail system has seen ongoing development since 2005, enhancing its role as a significant recreational asset.