Bottomland Trail

Bottomland Trail is a trail that branches off of Grants Trail. This natural path is approximately .6 mile in length. Regardless of which leg of the trail you start on, the trail parallels Gravois Creek and crosses a bottomland woodland. You'll also come across a seasonal shallow wetland where a portion of the woodland collects water. Gravois Creek, which is French, means "the creek with gravel." The creek begins in Webster Groves and flows 6.5 miles before entering River des Pere. The creek is a series of pools and riffles. Gravel bars make it easy to get close to the stream edge, but before you jump in you should know that the water has a high e-coli level. The series of riffles and pools add to the diversity of creek life. Sculpins and daters can be found in the rich oxygen laden riffles. Carp, some of which can be quite large, can be found in the deep and mysterious pools. Dont be surprised if you see a few large goldfish swimming about escapees from previous floods. Bluegill and even large-mouth bass patrol the waters. Shiners and minnows can be seen in abundance. Generally, the water is relatively clear, not Huzzah Creek of southern Missouri clear, but pretty clear for an urban setting. A spring is located close to the trail leg that is near the small ballfield.