Meramec River valley view at Castlewood State Park

Castlewood State Park is a great place for hiking on a warm spring day! These photos were taken in early fall of 2012 but the Spy is eager for another hike there after a cold winter spent (mostly) out of the woods!

Outside a huge fallen tree…

…and inside the tree!

Another big tree!

Meramec River at Castlewood State Park

From the Castlewood State Park website: “In the early 1900s, the area that’s now Castlewood State Park was a popular retreat for partying St. Louisans. The dance clubs are gone, but the winding Meramec River and the lush valley that surrounds it remain.”

The idea of little river resort retreats along the Meramec River in the early 1900s sounds so much fun! And if you like ghost stories, “Zombie Road” ends up in Castlewood State Park! Check out this “true story from one of Missouri’s most haunted places”: http://www.prairieghosts.com/zombie_road.html

Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, the history is still very interesting! Zombie Road is now called “Rock Hollow Trail” on a map (zip: 63021). Since it is paved, it is a good spot to hike when the trails are muddy!