You’ll Want to Brave the Cold for This Scenic Missouri Winter Hike

Winter is a magical time to explore the outdoors, and Castlewood State Park’s River Scene Trail near St. Louis is a perfect destination for those seeking both beauty and adventure. This 3.4-mile scenic winter hike in Ballwin, Missouri, offers breathtaking views and historical ruins. Bundle up, lace your boots, and don’t forget to equip yourself with the right winter gear. As my grandma used to say, you'll always be warm if your feet, hands, and head are covered! 

The Riverscene Trail loop begins by winding around a woodsy hillside before ascending sharply to the bluff tops. This uphill effort is rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Meramec River Valley. Standing more than 200 feet above the river, the scenery is particularly breathtaking in winter, when bare trees reveal unobstructed views of the meandering river below.

As you make your way along the bluff, you’ll pass reminders of the park’s past, including the foundations of structures from the 1920s to 1930s resort era. The trail then descends via a wooden boardwalk into the river valley, where hikers encounter the remnants of the "Grand Staircase" and the former Castlewood Railroad Depot stop.

The trail continues through peaceful woodlands and past open fields before running alongside the Meramec River, where the reflections of winter’s stark beauty create a serene ambiance. Although given its close proximity to the St. Louis suburbs, you're likely to encounter others on the trail. This flat stretch near the riverbank contrasts with the earlier bluff climb and is an ideal spot to pause and soak in the scenery.

If you're like me, your feet feel stiff and uncomfortable after you've been out in the cold for a while. The right gear makes all the difference; sweat-wicking socks with cushioning and support are a game-changer.

As the two-and-a-half-hour hike concludes, the trail loops back through the Kiefer Creek Road underpass to the trailhead (picnic shelter #1 GPS: 38.54985251, -90.5395134), leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of photo-worthy memories. Castlewood State Park is only about 30 minutes west of the city, making it a great way to escape St. Louis in winter. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a refreshing way to embrace winter, the Riverscene Trail delivers an unforgettable experience.

And if you're looking for more things to do before or after your winter hike, head on over to our itinerary planner. There, you'll find personalized recommendations for activities, restaurants, and sights to see nearby!