OUTDOOR EXPLORATION

OUTDOORexploration

Get out and experience the natural beauty of the St. Louis area in these local outdoor attractions.

By Ashley McGoff

St. Louis is the perfect city for both the city dweller and nature lover. While the metro area is bustling with urban developments, the city is surrounded by beautiful nature trails and exciting outdoor activities. Explore the great outdoors of St. Louis! With over 120 miles worth of nature trails, the Gateway City is sure to please the hikers, bikers and adventurers. The Great Rivers Greenway is a network of lively trails connecting communities to nature, encouraging all St. Louisans to “live life outside.” The Greenway trails vary in difficulty and terrain, but one thing is certain, incredible views and adventure await. Castlewood State Park is a perfect spot for hiking and biking. Nestled along the Meramec River, the walking trails offer panoramic views of the lush valley below. The park has trails ranging from beginner to advanced, making it an excellent spot for all to enjoy. Take in the scenery at Lone Elk Park. Located in Valley Park, this 546-acre park is both a walking trail and a wildlife preserve. The trail dives deeper into the park with beautiful rolling hills and a scenic lake to roam. After your hike, drive through the park where majestic elk, bison and waterfowl can be admired at a safe distance. For the history buffs, a walk through Ulysses S. Grant Trail is sure to delight. The Ulysses S. Grant Trail, otherwise known as Grant’s Trail, is an eight-mile “rail to trail” greenway in south St. Louis County. Previously a railroad right of way, the trail is flat and perfect for walking, running or biking. While on the trail, check out the 1850s four-room log cabin lived-in and built by the former president. Adjacent to Grant’s Trail is Grant’s Farm, home to the iconic Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales — but that’s not all. Purchased by Augustus Busch Sr. in 1907, the farm has been in the Busch family for over 100 years. While the family used to live on the farm, it is now a wildlife preserve, open for all to enjoy. Visitors enter via tram for a guided tour of the farm where exotic wildlife such as zebra, antelope and bison roam free. Once inside, more family-friendly activities await. Take the opportunity to bottle-feed goats, ride

CASTLEWOOD STATE PARK. Photography by Aaron Winchester.

LONE ELK PARK.

Photography by Caleb Lawson

the camels and the carousel or say hello to a variety of animals such as lemurs, tortoises and elephants. End your outdoor adventure with a snack at The Bauernhof, a bavarian-style beer garden where you can sample complimentary Anheuser-Busch products. Purina Farms is another must-see experience for animal lovers. Located on 300 acres, visitors can spend the day with barnyard animals and everyday pets. Take a wagon ride around the farm, learn how to milk a cow and watch interactive canine and feline shows at the Purina Event Center. St. Louis is full of glorious scenery just waiting to be explored. So, when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Mother Nature is calling.

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