National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS photo/Jennifer Clark
Gateway Arch National Park
Gateway Arch National Park commemorates President Jefferson’s vision of a continental nation, the individuals and cultural groups who helped shape its history, St. Louis’ role in westward expansion, and Dred and Harriet Scott, who sued for their freedom in the Old Courthouse.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
5 mi · 50 ft gain · loop
Over five miles of paved trails winding through the 91-acre park grounds surrounding the Gateway Arch. Wide concrete paths with gentle slopes, benches, and wayside exhibit signs offer views of the Arch, Mississippi River, and the Old Courthouse.
Starts at: Gateway Arch Visitor Center
0.5 mi · 65 ft gain · out & back
Descend the Grand Staircase (or gently curving ramps) from the Arch grounds to Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard along the Mississippi River, with views of the tallest monument in the nation and historic riverboat traffic.
Starts at: Gateway Arch West Entrance
0.5 mi · 10 ft gain · loop
A short accessible loop around the park's north pond, offering lovely views of the Arch reflected in the water. One of the most photographed spots in the park.
Starts at: North Pond Area, Gateway Arch Grounds
Upcoming Events
Iconic Conversations: NiNi Harris and Calvin Riley, Black St. Louis
Join us each month for a thought-provoking speaker series that brings St. Louis history to life. Gateway Arch National Park and Jefferson National Parks Association are proud to host compelling talks by local authors and other knowledgeable guests who will explore a variety of topics relevant to the St. Louis region. You might learn about our city's early beginnings, its architecture, our prominent leaders, the rise of the Gateway Arch, our civil rights struggles, and the best things to do around town. Book discussions will be followed by an author signing opportunity. All programs are free and no reservations are needed. They will be held at 2:00 p.m. on the second Sunday of the month in the rotunda of the historic Old Courthouse (11 N. 4th Street, St. Louis, MO 63102). The building is fully accessible, and a sign language interpreter will be on hand for each presentation. Come hear the rich and inspiring history of African Americans in St. Louis, ranging from the city’s founding as a French fur trading post through the Spanish colonial era to the new millennium. Authors Calvin Riley and NiNi Harris discuss their book Black St. Louis, which highlights great figures who showed leadership, incredible innovation, and courage despite the injustices they faced. Calvin is an educator who, along with his wife, amassed a collection of Black memorabilia dating back 250 years, now on display at the George B. Vashon Museum of African American History. Nini has authored 18 books on St. Louis history, from explorations of historic neighborhoods and parks to volumes on immigrants and Black St. Louisans.
B.A.R.K. Ranger: Summer Safety
B.A.R.K. Ranger events are always free and open to everyone. Dogs must be leashed and friendly. All events will start at 10:00 a.m. at the park entrance. Since B.A.R.K. Ranger events are held outdoors, they will be cancelled in case of inclement weather.
Battle of St. Louis
Rangers and living history volunteers will tell the story of the British led attack onSt. Louis on May 26, 1780.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: April, October, November
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
Normal Daily Mean Temperature (in degrees Fahrenheit)* January - 29.3 February - 33.9 March - 45.1 April - 56.7 May - 66.1 June - 75.4 July - 79.8 August - 77.6 September - 70.2 October - 58.4 November - 46.2 December - 33.9 Average Percent of Days with Sunshine* January - 50% February - 52% March - 54% April - 56% May - 59% June - 66% July - 68% August - 65% September - 63% October - 60% November - 46% December - 53% *Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration