Valley View Glades Natural Area

"Valley View Glades is one of the most scenic trails in the area. The wildflowers are colorful and numerous depending on the time of year. There's lots of shaded walking as well as some pathways in the sun. The babbling creek is very soothing if you get to experience it; that's contingent upon rain levels. I got turned around twice over the last 10 years which turned a leisurely hour and a half walk in the woods into a 3 hour trek. There are a lot of rocky spots and exposed tree root systems, so I suggest you bring a walking stick because it can get a bit challenging, especially on inclines. Overall, Valley View Glades Trail is among my top 10 favorite trails in the St. Louis area."

"Great place to hike. Terrain gives you everything from steep hillside climbs with rocks and roots, to sandy hilltop flats with great views. Small creek runs thru the bottom with several small waterfalls. Not a long hike mile-wise, but definitely a nice challenge that won't take up your whole day."

"There are some very beautiful views and some nice water features after some rain on the trail. I recommend you go left on the loop so you are looking up at the falls as you hike. The trail is root bound and rugged in many places. Also can be muddy so bring a change of shoes for after. Overall a really nice 3 mile hike."

"Great easy-to-moderate 3 mile hike with pretty views overlooking the hillside. The trail is well maintained and well marked. There are nice water features if you visit after it rains. I have hiked this trail several times and always enjoy it. You experience different features depending upon the time of year you go."

"Oh my! What a beautiful place. It is a wooded trail going around a breathtaking glade. It was about 3 miles. It can be a bit sunny on the glade, so a floppy hat or some other form of sun protection is a good idea if you want to explore. The wildflowers made me melt. There was so much Indian paint brush (we hiked in early June). The butterflies were everwhere too. This is a well managed site. Good job MDC!"