The Meramec River rises in the Missouri Ozarks, southeast of Salem, and flows ENE for 218 miles to join the Mississippi in southern Metro St. Louis. As it approaches that city, Castlewood State Park lines its northern shore, offering trail loops that run along the river, wind through forest and lead up to scenic bluffs that rise above the Meramec.
Today, my wife and I hiked the 2-mile river loop and endured the short but steep climb to overlooks atop the cliffs (photo). In addition to the beautiful scenery, we encountered an excellent variety of birdlife, including wood ducks, red-tailed hawks and several woodpecker species (among many other woodland songbirds).
Though it is clearly a popular State Park and well worth a visit, signage is absent along roads that lead toward the Park, which is south of Ballwin, Missouri. We recommend that you consult maps before setting out for Castlewood State Park.
