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Governor Bates Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 18 Google reviews · Running trail in Chesterfield, Missouri · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Governor Bates Trail'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.
What runners say about Governor Bates Trail
“This is a well-marked and easy trail for hiking, even for senior citizens.”
This was our first stop in the park, and we had a nice time just taking it in. Easy hike—perfect for a relaxing evening walk.
Short approximate 1 mile trail but a good workout as it has at least 1 significant hill. The trail is like a U-shaped where it goes down and back up again through the woods.
This is a great hiking trail. Just remembered that it does not loop around to the beginning of where you start. The first time I took it, I was a little confused about where I was when we came out on the other side
Steep hill at the beginning of the trail but the elevation gain on the second half is more manageable.
Trail conditions & character
“Steep hill at the beginning of the trail but the elevation gain on the second half is more manageable.”
“It rained the day before so it was a little muddy but manageable.”
“Just remembered that it does not loop around to the beginning of where you start.”
Plan your run at Governor Bates Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitestlouiscountymo.gov
Running trails near Chesterfield
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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