Forested Path Hike at McDonnell Park

Hike along paved paths through forests and hills, passing playgrounds at James S. McDonnell Memorial County Park in St. Ann, Mo.

Overview

This is a 1.3-mile loop hike on an asphalt trail with a 102-foot elevation gain. It took me about 25 minutes to complete.

McDonnell Park was initially called Adie Road Park. In 1980, its name was officially changed to James S. McDonnell Memorial County Park to honor the late founder of McDonnell Douglas.

Located in the southeast corner of the park is the park ranger’s office.

Before The Hike

I took the park road and made a left, then another left to the main parking area.

Next, I walked across the lot towards the playground.

*Climbing structure at the first playground*

My son was with me and wanted to play there first. It has numerous climbing structures, slides, and swings.

At the start of the trail, my son rides his small dirt bike while I walk the trail. — At the *start of the trail, my son rides his small dirt bike while I walk the trail.*

Then, after some time playing at the playground, we headed southeast on the paved path next to the parking lot.

Start of the Hike

At 0.2 miles, a side trail connects back to the playground area on the right.

The trail goes into the woods and away from the parking area.

**Trail connector on the right ahead connects back to the lot where we parked.**

At 0.6 miles, a side trail goes south and connects back to the parking lot. If you want to shorten the hike, you can take this trail.

After The Split

The trail goes back into the woods with a creek far below. then comes into a valley area.

Next, you go to the west side of Adle Road.

I notice a row of trees and part of an old wall; I wonder what this once marked.

At 1 mile, you make a right and follow along the park road.

Then, at 1.1. miles, you cross a hardly used park road that dead ends.

*Amphitheater area viewing from a field in front of it. The trail is by above the wall in the middle of the photo.*

After this road, you are above an amphitheater-like area below.

Along this part of the path, my son comes across a fitness station and tries it out. You will see these throughout the walk.

Then, at 1.3 miles, we are back at the lot.

Second Playground

We’ve finished walking, but he wants to explore the other playground, which is located on a hill south of the parking lot and the first playground.

*My son peering through the climbing wall.*

This one has a slide, a boardwalk, and a climbing wall. After some playing, we head out.

*A short sign along the walk identifies a tree.*

Final Thoughts

This is a leisurely stroll suitable for families with children. My son had a great time playing at both playgrounds and discovering the park.

*Information board located by the main parking area.*

Details

Note: Restrooms are located north of the parking area and south of the playground and Lindbergh Shelter. More restrooms are located off the trail by the second playground. The park also has sand volleyball courts.

Drive: Take Lindbergh north from Interstate 64 or south from Interstate 70/270, exit onto Midland Avenue going east, and make a left onto Link Road. Next, make a left onto Adele Road and a right into the park.

Hours: Open Dawn to Dusk

Address: 2961 Adie Rd, St. Louis, MO 63074