Half-Day Hike in St. Louis | Rock Quarry Trail Adventure 🌿

Craving nature but don’t want to drive 2+ hours to Mark Twain Forest? Rock Quarry Trail is the perfect escape—just 40 minutes west of downtown STL (past Chesterfield)! 📍 Trailhead: 🅿️ Ample parking + restrooms at the start (but no cell service—download maps ahead!). 🌳 Loop route: Connects Rock Quarry Trail, Trail Among the Trees, and Lime Kiln Trail (all in Rockwoods Reservation). 🌲 Trail Highlights: Easy-moderate hike: Gentle climbs (~850 ft elevation) with shady paths and occasional benches/viewpoints. History lesson: Spot the ruins of an 1856 limestone quarry (used for mortar—nature’s comeback is inspiring!). Hidden creek: A sparkling spring-fed stream halfway—perfect for a cool break! Wildlife: Saw chipmunks 🐿️ + a chubby groundhog sunbathing on rocks near the parking lot! ("Don’t mind me, humans!") 📊 Stats: 🥾 Distance: 7 miles ⛰️ Elevation gain: 850 ft ⏱️ Time: ~3.5 hours Verdict: Not mind-blowing views, but a peaceful, green oasis with fun history and critters! #StLouis #Hiking #RockQuarryTrail #ExploreMissouri #NatureWalk #NoSignalNoProblem