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

Want to enjoy the outdoors without driving two hours to Mark Twain Forest Park? The Rock Quarry Trail is just 40 minutes west of downtown St. Louis—past Chesterfield—and makes for a perfect half-day adventure. Trail Overview 📍 Location: Rockwoods Reservation (connected trails: Rock Quarry Trail, Trail Among the Trees, Lime Kiln Trail) 🚗 Parking: Available at the trailhead with restrooms (note: no cell service, so download maps in advance!). 🌿 Difficulty: Easy-moderate—gentle slopes, shaded paths, and occasional benches/scenic overlooks. Highlights 🏞️ Lime Kiln Ruins: This area was once a limestone quarry (est. 1856) where rocks were kiln-fired into mortar for construction. Walking past the ruins, it’s wild to think such a lush spot was once industrial—nature’s comeback is impressive! 💦 Creek Break: Midway, a crystal-clear stream flows over rocks—perfect for cooling off. 🐿️ Wildlife: Saw tons of chipmunks and even a chubby groundhog chilling near the trail sign! (It only scampered off when we left—adorable.) Stats 📏 Distance: 7 miles (loop) ⛰️ Elevation Gain: 850 ft ⏱️ Time: ~3.5 hours Verdict: Not the most jaw-dropping views, but a peaceful, green escape with fun history and critter sightings. Worth the trip! #StLouis #Hiking #RockQuarryTrail #NatureWalk #EasyHike #OutdoorAdventure