MDC’s “A Walk in the Park” urban hiking series returns in St. Louis City

St. LOUIS, Mo. — The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) invites the public to explore the beauty, wildlife, and history of St. Louis City’s parks through a series of guided hikes. Led by MDC education staff, these engaging walks will highlight the unique natural features, plants, and animals that call each park home, while also uncovering the rich cultural history behind these treasured green spaces. Each event in the series will take place in a different St. Louis City park, offering participants a fresh perspective on familiar landscapes.

“We are lucky here in St. Louis City to have more than 100 city parks,” MDC Conservation Educator Mary Fuller. “Through A Walk in the Park series, we hope to help people see these spaces not just as places to visit, but as vibrant habitats and cultural landmarks worth exploring and protecting.”

Walks are designed to be short—just 1–2 miles. The pace will be relaxed, with plenty of opportunities for questions, conversation, and nature observation. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to join the adventure. Participation is free, but registration is encouraged to ensure space for all attendees.

The following is a list of “A Walk in the Park” events, along with registration links:

• Fairground Park – Friday, Oct. 16 at 9 a.m. This 2-mile walk will traverse through the 132-acre Fairground Park. From its beginnings as the city’s grand fairgrounds and an early zoo to its more recent history, this walk will highlight the park’s large lake, a habitat for ducks, geese, and herons, as well as turtles and other aquatic animals.  Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxD.
• Benton Park – Monday, Oct. 19 at 5:30 p.m. This 2-mile walk will traverse Benton, Carnegie, and Cherokee Parks and the Cherokee-Lemp Historic District.. Once the city cemetery, Benton Park has been a park since 1866. Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxz.  
• Bellerive and Sister Marie Charles Parks – Friday, Oct. 23 at 9 a.m. This 1.5-mile walk will travel through Bellerive and Sister Marie Charles Parks along the banks of the Mississippi River. Participants will listen for a variety of bird species—both seasonal visitors and year-round residents; as well as learn about the prairie restoration efforts underway by MDC and the City of St. Louis.  Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxK.
• Compton Hill Reservoir Park – Monday, Nov. 2 at 9 a.m. This 2-mile hike will wind through Compton Hill Reservoir Park and the tree-lined streets of Compton Heights. This autumn stroll will showcase the vibrant fall colors while uncovering the rich history of the area.  Register at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/oxH.

Whether lifelong resident or new to the city, A Walk in the Park offers a fresh way to connect with nature, history, and community —one park at a time.

Stay informed of MDC latest programs by going to the MDC St. Louis regional events page at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/4yq.

MDC is committed to accessibility at all its nature centers, regional facilities, and conservation areas. To request an ADA accommodation for participation in MDC programs, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/accessibility.