Rockwood Reservation

Very pretty park. Trails turn to mud with just a small amount of moisture so be prepared. No where near as crowded as Castlewood and a lot of canine companions around. Will be returning often.

Rockwood Reservation is easily one of the hidden gems/​less appreciated hiking trails of the St. Louis-​ish area. Castlewood gets all the the love but this place may easily overtake it as #1.
RR has wayyy more trail options, it’s less crowded, and the views are amazing. Plus, it’s way more unique scenery. Sure, it might be a little farther out than Castlewood but it’s worth the extra 10 minute drive. Plus, there are some beautiful cliff scenes and classic hidden bungalows. I recommend researching what trails end up where and how long they are… some of them don’t end up exactly where you start but nothing too far. Maybe a couple blocks away? Also, looking ahead of time will give you an idea of what kinda views you’re in store for.
If you’re reading this and have other amazing hiking trail recommendations then pm or compliment me! I must go. I can’t wait to come back. I still have one more path to try out.

Located in Wildwood, near Eureka, Rockwoods Reservation is a great place for hiking. With 6 different trails at various lengths and difficulties, there is something for everyone. We went on a Sunday when the weather was perfect and encountered very few people.
The first trail we hiked was called the «Trail Among the Trees». At 1.5 miles long, this paved trail was considered moderate difficulty with hilly inclines. Early spring is a good time to go when you can see through the forest without all the leaves on the trees, however I’m sure it’s just as nice in the fall. You can grab a trail map/​booklet at the trail-​head which describes a few points of interest as you stroll through the forest. Highlights include a small abandoned mining area, a sealed off cave, wooden bridges and hilltop views. Note that the trail starts and ends in different places, but you can get back to the start along the road.
The other trail that we hiked was the Rock Quarry Trail which has two loops at 1 mile and 2.2 miles. We took the short loop in reverse and found the steep incline to be a good challenge. I don’t see an actual rock quarry, so I’d assume that it’s on the longer loop. Regardless, it was still a nice view from the top.
Unfortunately, we didn’t make it to any of the other trails, but I do plan to return soon to hike the rest of them.

Rockwood Reservation offers some beautiful hikes. It does live up to its name, though — the trails are very rocky so wear good shoes with ankle support. Don’t let your small children go galloping down a trail at full speed, either, because they will trip over a rock and there will be many tears.
The maple syrup festival is excellent and always receives a good turnout.

What’s better than a secluded place deep in West County where you can hike, enjoy nature and get some great scenery.
Not.a.thing!
I grew up coming to Rockwood for camps, with my family for picnics and hikes and I still have a special place in my heart for it. I drove through the other day on my way back home and I made sure to stop and talk with Smoky Bear.
They have festivals throughout the year so check out the parks page for information on that.
Be sure to enjoy this wonderful place of nature if you ever get a chance.

Love this place. It is a bucolic oasis. Great hiking trails. And I love the Maple Sugar festival that is held here every year.

Who invited the seed ticks?

This place is very easy to get to from the city, and it is quickly becoming one of my favorite places to hike. Some of the trails are a little steep if you’re a novice walker/​hiker, but the trails are well maintained and well marked. I hiked 4.5 miles today, and did not see one piece of trash, and only a couple other hikers. It’s beautiful cool wooded trails with lots of places to stop and rest. Enjoy!

This is a great place to go hiking, have a picnic, or just drive through for some scenery. A very secluded area still within the greater St. Louis metro area. Some challenging hikes, short and long trails, and easy guided access in and out.