As much as I love the urban playground that is St. Louis, sometimes it’s nice to escape into seclusion. (And truth be told, we got Portia a pet stroller for an upcoming road trip out west that I wanted to test out. Don’t judge, she’s old!)
We have some amazing parks and hiking within 20 miles of the city. We packed up the car and drove about 30 min to Castlewood State Park. A lot of the trails run along the Meramec 
River, or at least stumble upon a creek. We hopped on the Grotpeter Trail, which is a three mile loop and spent a little time kicking around in a creek, which was welcomed in a 90+ degree day.
There’s are several great places for hiking right around that area. Closer to the city, you have Rockwood Reservation and Laumier Sculpture Park. (If you’ve never gone into the wooded area next to the parking lot away from sculptures at Laumier, you’re missing out.)
Further out near Castlewood is Lone Elk Park and the World Bird Sanctuary. Both offer beautiful views and unique wildlife. World Bird Sanctuary boasts on their website that you will always see bald eagles.
I think folks underestimate how beautiful our state is. I know I can forget from time to time. It only takes a drive west or south to remind me, taking in the rolling hills. And spending some time outside hiking is a great way
to take in its beauty. Feel free to share recommendations for other hikes or parks near the city!
urbanpioneerstl 
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