The Meramec Greenway provides a clear framework for a stay in Valley Park: the paved trail runs from Greentree Park in Kirkwood to the Arnold’s Grove Trailhead on the levee in Valley Park. The Blue Heron Trail at Simpson Lake, the parks, and the area’s railroad history offer additional points of interest. When looking for accommodation, consider whether you’d like to focus on trails and water or on the area’s history.
Greenway and Boat Ramp
The Meramec Greenway is 3.6 miles long and paved. It runs between Greentree Park in Kirkwood and the Arnold’s Grove Trailhead on the levee in the city of Valley Park. The two endpoints are therefore in different cities. If you plan to cover the entire Greenway, it’s worth organizing your start and finish together. The Arnold’s Grove Trailhead is on the Valley Park levee and can be reached from Meramec Station Road. Check current trail and access conditions before making plans.
Meramec Landing offers a different focus. It is off Highway 141, north of I-44. From Highway 141, access is via Marshall Road and then Cal Hedrick Way to the boat ramp; boats can be used at Meramec Landing. This gives you two different options to plan around: a paved route between named endpoints and a place for boating. Check current access information before your visit.
Parks and Simpson Lake
Simpson Park is in Valley Park and covers 206 acres of parkland. The Blue Heron Trail runs around the 72-acre Simpson Lake. These figures refer to different things: 206 acres is the area of Simpson Park, while 72 acres is the size of the lake.
The parks in Valley Park offer an archery range and a boat ramp to the Meramec River. This makes the lake and river two distinct points of interest: the Blue Heron Trail circles Simpson Lake, while the parks’ boat ramp leads to the Meramec River. If you’re choosing between a trail by the lake and river access, this distinction can help guide your decision.
River and Railroad History
Valley Park began as a place where residents of St. Louis visited the summer resorts and clubhouses along the Meramec River to play and relax. This early connection to river recreation offers a distinct historical perspective alongside the area’s railroad history.
The Frisco Hotel was built in 1880 to house railroad workers who were working on laying the railroad line. The building houses the Whittle Shortline Railroad Shop. If the shop is important to your plans, ask about visiting options in advance.
Frisco Park is home to original Frisco caboose No. 398, dating from 1935 and originating in Valley Park. Some of the planters there date from 1913 and originally belonged to the Old Frisco Railroad Depot in Valley Park. These dates put the railroad-related features in context: the hotel dates back to the 19th century, while the planters and caboose are from the 20th century.
Sacred Heart Church
Sacred Heart Church is a Saint Louis County landmark dating from 1907–1908. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) team gives a tour of the church every year. If you’d like to plan for this tour, ask in advance about the specific date and visiting options.
Discover more destinations: Wildwood, Sunset Hills, Maryland Heights, Earth City, Fenton, Clayton, St Ann, Kinloch.
For the main travel overview: St Louis.
