Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts now have a new motivation to get out on area trails.
Organizers at The Open Space Council just launched a program called "Passport to Meramec River Trails" to encourage outdoor recreation along the Meramec River.
By hiking six designated trails along the Meramec and obtaining stamps on a faux passport for each trail, hikers earn a free water bottle and one-year membership to the council. Submit the completed passport to Open Space Council representatives.
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The six participating trails include:
- Minnie Ha Ha Trail, Sunset Hills
- Arnold's Grove Trail (trailhead start), Valley Park
- Green Rock Trail, Wildwood
- Al Foster Memorial Trail, Wildwood (trailhead start)
- Rock Hollow Trail, Ellisville
- Castlewood State Park (any trail within the park), Ballwin
Passports are available at park offices, visitor centers and by online requests, said Brittany Barton, council project manager.
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June 4 is National Trails Day, so that's a perfect time to explore the Minnie Ha Ha trail along the Meramec River, or Arnold's Grove Trail in Valley Park.
The Open Space Council is committed to conserving, protecting and sustaining land and water resources, with an emphasis on responsible and ethical uses of the area's waterways and wild lands.
St. Louis Region is a nonprofit organization based in Ballwin.
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