Spencer Road Trail: Hike Along a Lake and Wetlands

Hike around a large, clear lake, then above wetlands, and through the urban landscape on the Spencer Road Trail ending at City Centre Park in St. Peters, Mo.

This hike covers 8.35 miles on paved trails with an elevation gain of 155 feet. The walk begins at 370 Lakeside Park and then follows the levee along Spencer Creek. It continues along Spencer Road into commercial areas and follows sidewalks to City Centre Park.

*Parked on the west side of the lot, then headed westward on the Lakeside Trail toward Spencer Road Trail.*

Start of the Walk

I parked in the far west side corner of the large parking lot for 370 Lakeside Park. This walk begins by using part of the Lakeside Trail.

Next, I went to the trail on the lot’s west side. If you want a longer walk, go on the Lakeside Trail, going east around the lake for an additional 2 miles on a trek. I chose to go west.

You can cross the stream via the iron bridge or take the longer route using the bridge next to the road. I took the longer route. After the crossing, turn right. Continuing straight will lead you to the campground.

*A goose family spending time together by the lake.*

As I walked, I noticed geese eating grass near the lake, surrounded by their goslings.

*Making a left onto the Spencer Road Trail.*

The trail snakes to the north, and I come to an intersection. On the left is the start of the Spencer Road Trail. Continuing, you would be doing the Lakeside Trail.

*Heading north on Spencer Road Trail along the levee.*

Beginning Spencer Road Trail

Now, I am on the levee with Spencer Creek on the right.

Four deer crossed the trail in the distance, stopping to look at me before heading into the woods to the west.

The trail continues straight ahead, and I come to Salt River Road. A connector trail leads up to the road, but I continue under the road near Spencer Creek.

A stoplight is on the left, where you can cross Spencer Road to continue along the street.

Down below, I see blooming yellow flowers, which seem to be everywhere as I walk.

Then, the trail and road cross railroad tracks.

*Far below you can see the cars whiz by on Interstate 70.*

Urban Section

I head up a hill and high above Interstate 70.

Then, head downward, crossing Spencer Creek.

*Sidewalk walk starts at Executive Centre Parkway.*

I stop at a stoplight for Executive Centre Parkway. Now, the route is a sidewalk.

*Crossing the intersection at Mexico and Spencer Roads.*

Then I cross Mexico Road and Spencer Road, turning left towards City Centre Park.

I walk along Mexico Road to the bridge over Spencer Creek, where I end my journey.

You can continue walking along this trail to City Centre Trail around City Centre Park and even further along Spencer Creek Trail, but I choose to turn back.

Heading Back

Once more, I crossed Spencer Road and then Mexico Road. Walking a short distance to the left, you can enjoy a meal at Rosy’s Cakes and Paco’s Tacos.

Seeing Menard's along the walk. — *Seeing Menard’s along the walk.*

This time, I notice the Menard’s across the street as I walk.

Walking along the levee trail, I see an Amazon distribution center in the distance.

Additionally, I spot a small lake to the east of me; it’s funny to see the different details you notice when traveling in the other direction. (Main Blog Photo)

Through the woods, I spy flooded bottomland forests and wonder what turtles or snakes call this area home.

Then, I came to Lakeside Trail and turned right to go back.

In the lake, I note small islands that geese use to lay their eggs.

After the hike, I took a moment to check out the park.

*Fish food dispensers for fish feeding.*

370 Lakeside Park

Next to the parking area, there are fish food dispensers. If my son were here, we would feed them.

A beach area for kayak rentals has been established. Check-in occurs at the Campground and RV Park.

Looking away from the lake, I see a large picnic shelter with restrooms at the front.

Lastly I took a moment to sit by the lake before heading on.

The map above illustrates the trail system. On the right below is the key, Spencer Road Trail, which is shown as the letter G on the map.

Final Thoughts

This long walk goes through various areas, from lakes to creeks to shopping districts. My favorite part is along the levee and by 370 Lakeside Park.

NOTE: You can park in the small lot off Mexico Road near Tom Mansfield Nursery in City Centre Park, but I find starting from 370 Lakeside Park to be more pleasant.

DETAILS

Drive: Take Interstate 70 to exit 225 and go north on Harry S. Truman Blvd., which becomes Lakeside Park Drive. Then, make a left onto the park road that leads to parking.

Hours: 6 a.m. – 8 p.m., although it can be closed during times of flooding along the nearby Missouri River valley.

Address: 1000 Lakeside Park Dr, St Peters, MO 63376