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Castlewood State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 3,762 Google reviews · Running trail in Ballwin, Missouri · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- 3 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Castlewood State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
A leisure destination for St. Louisans in the early 1900s, now popular for hiking & mountain biking.
What runners say about Castlewood State Park
“The trails are well-kept, with routes for every skill level, which made it easy for all of us to enjoy.”
“The scenic views were breathtaking, especially along the Meramec River, with sunlight streaming through the trees and creating a peaceful glow over the water.”
“There are several well-marked paths to choose from, each offering different views of the fall scenery.”
“I took my two daughters and a friend, and we had an incredible day hiking, connecting, and soaking in the peaceful beauty around us.”
“I’d say it’s dog friendly, has easy creek access, beautiful views, and cool history (w/ information kiosks and signage!”
I visited this park in November, and the weather made the trails even more enjoyable. There are several well-marked paths to choose from, each offering different views of the fall scenery. It’s a peaceful place to walk, take photos, and enjoy nature. Overall, it’s a great park for a relaxed half-day exploration.
Best route... take the Lone Wolf Trail, entrance (next to a parking area) across from the playground on Kiefer Creek. It's a steep climb right away, but you will be on the bluff, overlooking Meramec River in about quarter of a mile hike.
Wow, that's incredibly exciting! A 3-mile trek with a hiking segment is absolutely amazing. The trails are diligently maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience, and the signboards are thoughtfully placed, providing clear guidance.
Castlewood State Park was the perfect spot for a Saturday adventure! I took my two daughters and a friend, and we had an incredible day hiking, connecting, and soaking in the peaceful beauty around us. The trails are well-kept, with routes for every skill level, which made it easy for all of us to enjoy.
Trail conditions & character
“The scenic views were breathtaking, especially along the Meramec River, with sunlight streaming through the trees and creating a peaceful glow over the water.”
“I took my two daughters and a friend, and we had an incredible day hiking, connecting, and soaking in the peaceful beauty around us.”
“It was very quiet and serene, with just a few others out hiking, fishing, or waking their dogs along this stretch of trail.”
“And reaching the hill during the hiking portion to witness the awe-inspiring views of the surrounding area is simply breathtaking.”
“It connects to River Scene Trail, and take that, down the stairs, and the rest of the trail is flat, soft and in between the river and railroad track.”
“There are both paved and unpaved trails, and several parking lots so you can start closer to the trail you wish to take.”
“There are both paved and unpaved trails, and several parking lots so you can start closer to the trail you wish to take.”
Plan your run at Castlewood State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- Distance3 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemostateparks.com
- Phone(636) 227-4433
- Social Facebook
Running trails near Ballwin
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Grotpeter Trailhead
4.6 ★★★★★ 83 reviews
Hike-and-bike spot with views of woods and rivers, plus dog-friendly policies.
Lone Wolf Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 87 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area providing several trails, including the popular Lone Wolf.
River Scene Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 364 reviews
Kids-friendly state park featuring scenic trails and playgrounds.
Lone Elk Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,947 reviews
Sprawling space with driving routes to see elk, bison & other wildlife, plus morning feedings.
