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River Scene Trail
4.8 ★★★★★ 364 Google reviews · Running trail in Ballwin, Missouri · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from River Scene 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.
Kids-friendly state park featuring scenic trails and playgrounds.
What runners say about River Scene Trail
“Very enjoyable trail with moderate difficulty on the upper section of the bluffs, and picturesque, beautiful scenery.”
“The trail is very well marked with bright red arrows.”
Probably the most popular trail at Castlewood for good reason. It's short at 3.1 miles, hills are not bad and views of the Mermac are excellent
Our favorite trail in Castlewood park, takes you along the bluffs for amazing views and down to the river valley all on the same trail. There is definitely a climb involved and quite a few stairs as well but it is completely manageable. Have fun!!!
The river scene trail was great. If you choose to start from the parking area closest to the entrance, you’ll have a hike that takes you straight up a rocky path at a pretty steep angle. Make sure to wear good fitting shoes and watch your footing for loose rocks.
I’ve ran this trail countless times throughout my life and still find the views breathtaking! It is a good hike for the whole family! Every time I’m back in town I take all my kids and we all hike it together. Even my 2 year old gets out of the pack to hike.
Trail conditions & character
“Our favorite trail in Castlewood park, takes you along the bluffs for amazing views and down to the river valley all on the same trail.”
“If you choose to start from the parking area closest to the entrance, you’ll have a hike that takes you straight up a rocky path at a pretty steep angle.”
“Riverside portion accessible from a nearby parking lot so the flat and more friendly packed dirt and sand trail is reachable if you need to skip the hill.”
“If you choose to start from the parking area closest to the entrance, you’ll have a hike that takes you straight up a rocky path at a pretty steep angle.”
“A nice loop that goes along the hill ridge over the river and then down to along the riverside.”
“It's tough for our old dogs at this stage of their life, but it's a moderate hike overall.”
“The trail is very well marked with bright red arrows.”
“Riverside portion accessible from a nearby parking lot so the flat and more friendly packed dirt and sand trail is reachable if you need to skip the hill.”
“Riverside portion accessible from a nearby parking lot so the flat and more friendly packed dirt and sand trail is reachable if you need to skip the hill.”
Plan your run at River Scene 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
- 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.
- Phone(800) 334-6946
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.
Lone Wolf Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 87 reviews
Kid-friendly hiking area providing several trails, including the popular Lone Wolf.
Grotpeter Trailhead
4.6 ★★★★★ 83 reviews
Hike-and-bike spot with views of woods and rivers, plus dog-friendly policies.
Castlewood State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 3,762 reviews
A leisure destination for St. Louisans in the early 1900s, now popular for hiking & mountain biking.
Lone Elk Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 2,947 reviews
Sprawling space with driving routes to see elk, bison & other wildlife, plus morning feedings.
