River Scene Trail — Attraction in Ballwin

Came to this trail alone as my first trip to castlewood. Parking wasn't too bad, I found a spot by the trail easily. I read some reviews so knew to expect a rocky uphill path. The trip starts with a giant hill with gravel to start that thins into natural rocks and roots and dirt. It had rained recently when I went so the path was bit slippery from mud but I finally made it to the top. Once at the top the view are breathtaking (as if the journey up hadn't knocked me out already) 😂 there's a bench to rest and see out and also a deck area with an overlook. Trails went in either direction along the upper edges and there were tons of places to climb down for the brave. There were lots of people out but it wasn't crowded, I was able to take photos and enjoy the views. Will definitely be back to...

We have visited this park countless times & we still haven't explored so much of this beautiful area!! Today we specifically focused on the River Scene Trail. We took our shihtzu & she loved the climb. We saw several other leashed dogs, walkers, runners, & bikers. It's a steep climb with loose rocks of various sizes so, good foot wear is imperative! There are several openings to look at the water & treetops below; 2 bench spots, a wooden deck overlook area, & several little open bluff areas to sit safely. The trail is very well marked with bright red arrows. This is the most beautiful fall hike views I've ever seen. I love this place in the summer, but it's absolutely magical with the trees turning deep red, bright orange, &...

A nice loop that goes along the hill ridge over the river and then down to along the riverside. Took us three able adults about an hour and a half, even with stopping for pictures. Trail has some steep spots and plenty of crossing roots and terrain unevenness on the hills. Riverside portion accessible from a nearby parking lot so the flat and more friendly packed dirt and sand trail is reachable if you need to skip the hill. Recommend the higher vistas too. Didn't seem as crowded as other hiking reviewers made it sound. We went on a sunny Sunday afternoon. There's a rail line that goes through the center of the loop along the river so you pass under it in a...