Meramec Greenway Trail System

Meramec Greenway Trails is a network of paved and unpaved multi-use trails that generally follow the course of the Meramec River in the St. Louis metropolitan area. It's part of the larger Great Rivers Greenway system, which aims to create a network of interconnected greenways throughout the region.  

Think of it as a growing linear park that offers opportunities for recreation, exercise, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Meramec River corridor.

Here's a breakdown of what you should know about the Meramec Greenway Trail:

• Purpose: The primary goal is to provide accessible pathways for walking, running, biking, and other non-motorized activities while preserving and connecting natural areas along the river.
• Sections and Length: The Meramec Greenway isn't one continuous long trail, but rather a series of disconnected segments that are being linked over time. Currently, there are over 20 miles of open trail in various sections. The ultimate vision is to have a continuous greenway stretching approximately 50 miles from the Meramec's confluence with the Mississippi River to Pacific, Missouri.
• Trail Surfaces: The trails vary in surface, including asphalt and crushed stone.
• Scenery: You can expect to see diverse landscapes along the trail, including river views, limestone bluffs, woodlands, and open fields. Some sections pass through or connect to local parks and communities.  
• Access Points: There are numerous access points and trailheads for the different segments of the Meramec Greenway. Some key access points include:
  • Lower Meramec Park: Trailheads at Krumm Road and Holzer Road (near I-55).  
  • George Winter Park: Located near the intersection of Highway 141 and Highway 30 in Fenton.  
  • Unger Memorial County Park: South of Fenton.
  • Minnie Ha Ha Park (Sunset Hills): Connects to a section of the greenway.
  • Greentree Park (Kirkwood): A connecting point for a segment.
  • Arnold's Grove Trailhead (Valley Park).  
  • Lions Park (Eureka).  
  • Route 66 State Park (Eureka).  
  • Al Foster Trailhead (Wildwood): Near the Wabash, Frisco and Pacific Railroad.  
• Connections: The Meramec Greenway also connects to other trails and parks in the region, such as Grant's Trail, Rock Hollow Trail, and various county and city parks.
• Amenities: Amenities vary depending on the section of the trail, but you might find parking, restrooms, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and water fountains at some access points or nearby parks.  
• Management: Different sections of the greenway are managed by various entities, including St. Louis County Parks, Great Rivers Greenway, and individual municipalities.  

Since we're in Sunset Hills, you're likely close to the section of the Meramec Greenway that runs near Minnie Ha Ha Park. This segment connects George Winter Park in Fenton to Unger Park, passing by Minnie Ha Ha Park.  

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about specific sections, access points, and trail conditions, it's always a good idea to check the Great Rivers Greenway website or the website of the managing parks department for the area you're interested in. They often have maps and detailed information about each greenway.