Move Along the Mississippi River

Casual WalkersHistory BuffsFamilies

0 mi Distance

Varies Estimated Time

Out & Back Trail Type

What to Expect

This is less a hike and more a riverside stroll through American history — and honestly, that's the point. You'll follow a paved section of the Mississippi Greenway along the St. Louis riverfront, with the iconic Arch towering behind you and the muddy Mississippi sprawling wide ahead. The trail is flat, smooth, and fully urban, so leave your hiking boots at home. Massive river barges churn past close enough to feel the wake, and the historic Eads Bridge — the first steel-truss bridge ever built — frames the northern view beautifully. The real payoff here isn't a summit or a waterfall; it's watching one of the world's great rivers do its thing while standing in the shadow of westward expansion's most famous monument. Perfect for casual walkers, history buffs, and anyone killing time before their tram ride to the top of the Arch.

Casual WalkersHistory BuffsFamiliesUrban ExplorersPhotographers

Safety Advisory

The riverfront trail runs close to the Mississippi's edge with limited barriers in places — keep children and pets well clear of the bank, especially after rain when the ground can be slick and the current is deceptively strong.

Summer heat radiates off the pavement with almost no shade along the route; the concrete riverfront can feel ten degrees hotter than the forecast, so plan accordingly on July and August afternoons.

Trail Details

Estimated Time Varies

Trail Type Out & Back

Pets Dogs allowed (leash required)

Season Year-round

Trailhead Move Along the Mississippi River

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

Time your walk for early morning on weekdays — the riverfront is practically empty before 8 AM, and the low-angle light on the Arch and Eads Bridge is worth the early alarm.

Trail Tip

Park at the Gateway Arch parking garage beneath the park grounds rather than fighting for metered street spots; it's surprisingly affordable and puts you steps from the trailhead.

Trail Tip

Walk north toward Laclede's Landing for the best photo angle — you'll get the Arch, the bridge, and river barges in a single frame from the overlook near the flood wall.