TOP10

This page lists ten different places to hike and go near St. Charles. Described in this list are places ranked 1-10 and a description and how far away is included. Other students from FHN share their favorite places to go too. (Content by Madeline Dustin)

1

Elephant Rock

This park features a train of large pink boulders on the top of hills. It also has seven acres of trails and views. This is one hour and 40 minutes away from St. Charles.

“My favorite thing was going to the top and seeing the view and climbing the boulders.”

- Dominick Robinson, 12

2 3

Johnson’s Shut Ins

From the numerous waterfalls to the crystal clear water, Johnson’s Shut Ins is one of the most popular places to swim every year. This is one hour and 50 minutes away from St. Charles.

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

6

Klondike Park

This park features more than four miles of trails and a unique lookout bluff. It is also the site of an old sand quarry. This is 40 minutes away from St. Charles.

“It’s on the river. It’s really pretty. Theres all kinds of trees around and rock formations.”

- Mady Brewer, 10

7

Castlewood State Park

Popular for hiking and mountain biking, this place also hosts a lake and beautiful views. This is 30 minutes away from St. Charles.

“We go a lot with my family and it’s really pretty.”

- Katie Head, 9

8

Taum Sauk Mountain State Park

This state park features the ruins of a twentieth century castle. It also has caves and crystal clear water. This is two hours and 40 minutes away from St. Charles. 4

This state park features Missouri’s highest point. It also includes forested hiking and camping. This is two hours away from St. Charles.

“It’s in the state so you can go there pretty often. And it’s pretty tall.”

9

Lone Elk Park

This park has driving routes to see the elk and bison in the park. It also has multiple hiking trails throughout the park. This is 30 minutes away from St. Charles.

Creve Coeur Lake Park

This huge lake with a three mile trail around it features playgrounds, boat rentals, fishing and tennis courts. This is about 15 minutes away from St. Charles.

“I just like the lake. It’s nice to walk around, just beautiful.”

- Kevin McGuire, 10

Rockwoods Reservation

- Sean Hartley, 11 5

This wildlife reserve has miles of hiking, campgrounds and picnic sites. It is also full of wildlife. This is 45 minutes away from St. Charles.

“The tall trees and greenery are super pretty to walk through on hikes. Sometimes you will find a pretty creek too.”

- Elise Grimshaw, 9

10

Mark Twain National Forest

This forest is filled with hills and has scenic rivers, lakes and streams. With hiking, biking, fishing and more, this is an hour and 40 minutes away from St. Charles.