Highlight • Forest
Hiking
5.0
(2)
Greensfelder Park is a sprawling natural area covering 1,734 acres in western St. Louis County, Missouri, near the city of Wildwood. Rising to an elevation of 261 meters, this significant Greensfelder Park Forest is a vital part of the Henry Shaw Ozark Corridor, offering a diverse landscape of hills and woodlands. It serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking trails and natural beauty within the greater St. Louis metropolitan area.
Visitors consistently praise Greensfelder Park for its extensive network of trails, which are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park's ability to connect with neighboring natural areas like Rockwoods Reservation and Rockwoods Range Conservation Area creates an expansive trail system, allowing for varied and longer excursions. Many appreciate the tranquil escape it offers, providing a serene natural setting despite its proximity to urban centers.
Before heading out, it's helpful to know that the park features over 30 miles of interconnected earthen trails, which can vary in terrain. Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the Greensfelder Park Forest terrain. Parking is generally available at various access points, including near the nature center and trailheads. The park can be popular, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day can help secure a spot and ensure a more peaceful experience.
The best time to visit Greensfelder Park for hiking and other activities is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is vibrant. The park is well-suited for family-friendly hikes, with playgrounds and picnic shelters available. Beyond hiking, the park is a renowned equestrian destination, offering stables and dedicated trails for horseback riding, making it a unique spot for horse lovers.
Greensfelder Park offers a rich tapestry of visitor experiences, from exploring its historical roots as a site of logging and mining to enjoying its current status as a cherished natural oasis. Hikers might discover unique rock formations or spot local wildlife along trails like the Mustang Trail, which leads to a clear pool of water by a rocky brook. The park's transformation from an industrial landscape to a beautiful parkland is a testament to its enduring appeal.
Whether you're looking for a challenging mountain bike ride, a leisurely family walk, or a scenic horseback adventure, Greensfelder Park provides numerous options. You can explore a variety of Greensfelder Park Forest popular trails routes, each offering different distances and elevation gains. To plan your visit and discover the perfect route for your activity, check out the many trails available on komoot, ensuring you make the most of this remarkable natural space.
Tips
September 25, 2023
Hiking

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Greensfelder Park

5
hikers
16.3km
04:31
290m
280m
Hike the 10.2-mile Eagle Valley and Beulah Trail Loop in Greensfelder Park, a moderate route with 961 feet of elevation gain.

2
hikers
20.0km
05:41
430m
480m
Hike the difficult 12.4-mile Beulah and Green Rock Trail Loop in Greensfelder Park, featuring wooded scenery and challenging climbs.

2
hikers
27.8km
07:41
510m
430m
Hike the difficult 17.3-mile DeClue, Beulah and Eagle Valley Trail Loop in Greensfelder County Park, featuring diverse terrain.
Details
Informations
Elevation 260 m
Yes, Greensfelder Park is generally dog-friendly. Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, allowing you to enjoy the park's extensive network with your canine companion. Always remember to clean up after your pet to maintain the park's natural beauty for all visitors.
Greensfelder Park offers a variety of loop trails catering to different preferences. While specific named loops aren't detailed, the interconnected trail system allows hikers to create their own loops. Many visitors enjoy combining sections of trails like the Mustang Trail, which leads to a clear pool of water, to form scenic circuits. For detailed routes and distances, exploring the available trails on komoot can help you plan the perfect loop.
The park's terrain is characterized by beautiful forests and hills, meaning trails can vary significantly. You'll encounter rolling hills, some steeper ascents, and descents, especially on trails that connect different parts of the park or lead to features like rocky outcroppings. While a specific average elevation gain isn't provided, expect a moderate challenge on many routes, requiring sturdy footwear.
Absolutely! Greensfelder Park is home to several interesting natural features. The Mustang Trail, for instance, is known for leading to a clear pool of water by a rocky brook. Throughout the park, you can also discover unique rock formations and enjoy scenic views from various points along the hilly trails. Keep an eye out for diverse flora and fauna as you explore.
While the park is beautiful year-round, winter conditions can impact trail accessibility and safety. Trails may become muddy, icy, or covered in snow, especially after precipitation. It's advisable to check local weather conditions and park advisories before visiting in winter. Proper winter hiking gear, including appropriate footwear and layers, is highly recommended.
Greensfelder Park's extensive trail system primarily consists of earthen trails through hilly, forested terrain, which may present challenges for visitors with mobility issues. However, the park does feature a scenic loop road that can be driven, offering views of the park. Additionally, facilities like the Nature Learning Center and some picnic areas may offer more accessible pathways and amenities. It's best to contact the park directly for specific accessibility information.
Greensfelder Park is very family-friendly, offering several amenities for children. There are multiple playgrounds located within the park, providing spaces for kids to play. Additionally, numerous reservable shelters (such as Muckerman, Glassberg, Mustang, and Dogwood) are available for picnics and gatherings, making it an ideal spot for a family day out.
As a significant natural area within the Henry Shaw Ozark Corridor, Greensfelder Park is home to diverse wildlife. Visitors might spot various bird species, deer, squirrels, and other small mammals. The park's forested and hilly landscape provides habitats for a range of creatures, offering opportunities for wildlife observation, especially during quieter times of the day.
Greensfelder Park is located in Wildwood, Missouri, and is bordered to the south by Eureka, which is home to Six Flags St. Louis. This proximity means there are various dining options and accommodations available in the surrounding areas of Wildwood and Eureka, ranging from casual eateries to hotels, catering to visitors looking for a meal or an overnight stay.
The land was originally acquired for logging and mining in the 19th century. It was later donated to St. Louis County in 1963 by the trustees of the St. Louis Regional Planning and Construction Foundation, established by Albert P. Greensfelder. Initially named Rockwood Park, it was officially renamed Greensfelder Park in September 1965 to honor A.P. Greensfelder's significant role in its creation and development.
Yes, Greensfelder Park offers camping facilities for visitors looking to extend their stay. The campground provides various options, including tent sites and RV spots. It is particularly well-known for catering to equestrians, with specific facilities designed for horse owners, making it a unique destination for those traveling with horses.