The Dual Path: Safety Tips

Share the Path – Respect all visitors, remembering that both hard and soft surfaces are open to all. Those on “wheels” may prefer the hard paved surface and those using their “heels” may prefer the soft crushed rock surface, however this is not a requirement. Foot traffic on the hard paved surface should please give way so bicycles may pass.

Run, Walk or Ride in a Single File – Even if you are in a group, proceed in single file or tightly enough that you leave room for others to pass you, in both directions. This helps keep the paths and trails clear of congestion and reduces the chances of an accident.

Pass on the Left – When passing from behind, make sure you announce your presence by ringing a bell or saying “on your left.”

Keep Your Ears Alert — If wearing earbuds, keep the volume low enough that you can hear other visitors coming behind you.

Maintain a Safe Speed – The path system and trails are not designed for high-speed biking or speed skating. Too much speed can endanger you and those around you. Limit your speed to 15 mph or less.

If You Need to Stop, Pull Completely off the Trail – By pulling off the trail, you are less likely to interrupt the flow of trail traffic, get hit by a passing trail user or cause an accident.

Keep Pets on a Leash – Pets are not allowed to be off-leash within Forest Park. It is best to keep them to your right, completely off the path system.

On Wheels? Wear a Helmet – We recommend that anyone who is biking, skating or doing any recreational activity on wheels wear a helmet, particularly those 18 and under.

No Motorized Traffic – Motorized traffic is not permitted on the path system or trails. (Exceptions include motorized wheelchairs and park and security vehicles.)

Obey All Traffic Signs – Yield to traffic signs and follow any detours. Watch for car traffic, particularly where roads cross the path system.

Orient yourself on the dual paths with our interactive Park map.

Explore on your own all year

Self-Guided Audio Tours

Forest Park Forever and the Missouri Department of Conservation are thrilled to provide you this series of self-guided audio tours of Forest Park's Nature Reserve system. We would like to thank Fox 2's John Pertzborn for reading each entry.

Experience Forest Park

Feeling homesick for your favorite urban habitat? Enjoy sights and sounds during all four St. Louis seasons from different areas around Forest Park.