Running in Missouri
Missouri offers a strong running experience with two major metro areas (St. Louis and Kansas City) driving the scene. The state's parks, river trails, and varied terrain provide options from flat greenway running to hilly trail adventures in the Ozarks.
Climate
Four seasons with hot, humid summers and cold winters
Terrain
The Ozark region in southern Missouri has hilly, forested terrain
Top Race
Kansas City Marathon
Climate and Weather
Four seasons with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Spring and fall are ideal for running with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery. Missouri sits at the intersection of several climate zones, leading to variable weather.
Terrain and Landscape
The Ozark region in southern Missouri has hilly, forested terrain. The Missouri and Mississippi River valleys provide flat running along levees and floodplains. Urban areas have extensive paved trail networks. The state offers more topographic variety than many expect.
Top Running Routes
Forest Park Loop
6.5 milesSt. Louis
A beloved loop around one of the largest urban parks in the country, passing the zoo, art museum, and golf courses.
Katy Trail
240 milesClinton to Machens
The longest rail-trail in the country, following the Missouri River through bluffs, farmland, and wine country.
Trolley Track Trail
6 milesKansas City
A paved urban trail through the Brookside and Waldo neighborhoods, popular with KC runners.
Castlewood State Park
5-10 milesSt. Louis
Rocky blufftop trails along the Meramec River with challenging terrain and great views.
Indian Creek Trail
26 milesKansas City
A paved trail connecting southern KC suburbs through parks and green spaces.
Popular Races
Kansas City Marathon
Kansas City
GO! St. Louis Marathon
St. Louis
Bass Pro Marathon
Springfield
Running Culture
St. Louis and Kansas City both have thriving running communities with numerous clubs, group runs, and race events. Forest Park in St. Louis is one of the best running parks in the Midwest. The Katy Trail draws trail runners from across the country for its unmatched length and scenery.
Safety Tips
Watch for poison ivy on Ozark and river valley trails. It grows abundantly alongside paths.
Summer humidity can be oppressive. Hydrate well and start runs early.
The Katy Trail can be muddy and impassable after heavy rain. Check trail conditions.
Ticks are common in wooded areas from spring through fall. Do thorough tick checks.
Make Running in Missouri a Game
Turn your Missouri runs into a real-world strategy game. Capture territory by running loops, compete with local runners on leaderboards, and explore every street through a Fog of War mechanic. Motera adds purpose and competition to every mile.
Download Motera Free
MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What is the Katy Trail?
The Katy Trail is a 240-mile crushed limestone trail following the Missouri River, making it the longest rail-trail in the United States. It passes through scenic river bluffs, small towns, and Missouri wine country. It is popular for running, cycling, and multi-day adventures.
Is St. Louis or Kansas City better for running?
Both cities are excellent. St. Louis has Forest Park (comparable to Central Park) and proximity to the Katy Trail. Kansas City has an extensive urban trail network and a strong running club scene. It comes down to personal preference.
When is the best time to run in Missouri?
April through June and September through November offer the most comfortable conditions. Fall is particularly beautiful along the Katy Trail and in the Ozark forests with peak foliage.
More from Motera
What's Your Runner Type?
Take our free personality quiz to discover your running style
GPS Art Route Planner
Draw shapes on a map and generate runnable routes
Running Guides by Audience
Find tailored advice for beginners, weight loss, over 40, and more
Best Running Apps Compared
Compare top running apps side by side and find your perfect fit
