Powder Valley Nature Center is located in South County (St. Louis) near the busy interchange of interstates 270 and 44. Three short trails are nestled within this 112 acre area. The brochure states that Powder Valley is a “quiet corner in a busy urban world” and I would totally agree. You can hear the traffic from the nearby interstates, but if you can tune it out for just a little while, peaceful trails await. The trails are characterized by steep inclines, lots of bridges and a meandering creek.

Also, be sure to check out the Nature Center. This place is really cool especially for kids. There are tons of exhibits. Be sure to say hi to Peanut, a turtle that was rescued from a local waterway since he had a six pack plastic ring stuck around him. Over time, his shell grew around the ring causing it to form into a peanut shape. This is a good reminder to always carry out what you carry in and leave the place cleaner than you found it.

The only downside to this place is that no dogs are allowed.

This is a great local place for a quick hike. Be sure to check it out!

You can obtain the trail map below from the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website.