Jefferson Barracks Park

My brother and I walked the hiking trail this morning.  Although the noise level above says that it is moderate, when we walked, we were struck by the fact that it was so quiet.  Of course, we have a special attachment to the park.  After WWII, the county opened a number of the old clapboard barracks houses to home coming GI's, one of which was our father.  We grew up roaming the park and the environs.  This meant that on Memorial Day we, as scouts, put flags on the graves at the cemetery and as members of the JB Boys and Girls Club, we handed out water to visitors.

I have told my children that I grew up in one of the first major housing projects in the city, but this was a great place to grow up.  It is now a beautiful park, but I have to tell you that a number of the historic features that we knew are now gone.  Others are closed off behind the fence around the National Guard base.  Those that remain are very worthwhile to enjoy.  the county has built a fantastic extension to the trail that allows you to walk north along the river and to pass the River City Casino.  It is my understanding that they have plans to extend it even more.

In addition to the larger park, Jefferson Barracks also includes a smaller beautiful park along side the cemetery.  This is Sylvan Springs Park.  It has been the site of many family picnics for our family and is a real gem.  the spring now only has water in it during the wet season, but there is a very interesting structure that was built by the servicemen so that they could have dances and parties along the spring.  It is really interesting to see.

My parents are now buried at the cemetery, and as a veteran. I will one day likely join them there.  It is a wonderful place.

One of my favorite parks. The facilities are always well-maintained, especially the women's restrooms, and the park is usually packed with families and dog-walkers. The main path is paved, with two conjoined loops totaling about two and a half miles; there are some light hills, but nothing too strenuous. Lots of deer, too!

Jefferson Barracks is really a gem in St. Louis.  I use it mostly for running, and there are a lot of options here.  There's the main paved trail that is about 3 miles long.  You almost always see people (and animals) making use of it.  Most often for me, though, I run along the outside of the park and take advantage of more of the park's space.  It makes for a decently lengthy run and provides a few hills.  And most importantly some nice views and the feeling that you aren't in the middle of a big metro area.

The park has much more to offer too.  There's a frisbee golf course; several softball, baseball, and soccer fields; playgrounds; shelters; and general open space.  You also aren't far from another park - Sylvan Springs - where there are tennis courts, a skate park, and a playground.  There are also a lot of historical markers that help you understand the park's original purpose - as a military barracks.  There are even museums and gift shops around.  And of course you're next door to the national cemetery, which everyone should visit at least once.