St. Louis, MO

Gateway Arch, Gateway Arch National Park, & Brickline Trail

The signature St. Louis run! The most recognizable landmark in the city (and one of the most recognizable internationally), the Gateway Arch is at the heart of downtown St. Louis, and sits on the west bank of the Mississippi River. The arch is the centerpiece of the riverfront Gateway Arch National Park, operated by the National Park Service. This recently revitalized area downtown also features the new City Park soccer stadium, and 2 miles of the Brickline Urban Walking trail, which highlights the city’s Black presence. This iconic 5-mile St. Louis run is accessible from the Convention Center and many downtown hotels.

For a dramatic start, we suggest starting at the Pillars of the Valley outdoor sculpture, which is where the Brickline Trail starts. Head east along the Brickline Trail, which parallels Market St. (Market & Chestnut are the main streets through here, with a green plaza as the median). Pass through Memorial Plaza, Soldiers’ Memorial Museum, and numerous small parks, including the Citygarden Sculpture Park. Passing the landmark Old Cathedral, you’ll enter the Gateway Arch National Park, with the newly renovated museum, parkland, and Gateway Arch Trail leading to the Arch. The area is administered by the National Park Service. Loop back using Chestnut St. for the return.

Add-Ons:  Cross Eads Bridge, which adds 0.75 miles each way from Laclede’s Landing. You can also continue along the Riverfront Trail, heading north from Gateway Arch NP.

Note: This terrific New York Times article provides more information on the Brickline Trail. There are plans to expand it. There’s also a large project to revitalize the Old Courthouse area & downtown.

Essentials
  • Nearly 5 mile (8 km) loop with good add-on options
  • 202 feet
  • Pillars of the Valley sculpture @ Market St. & 22nd St.
  • Metrolink: 8th & Pine or Union Station

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Essentials
  • Nearly 5 mile (8 km) loop with good add-on options
  • 202 feet
  • Pillars of the Valley sculpture @ Market St. & 22nd St.
  • Metrolink: 8th & Pine or Union Station