At a glance
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.
Things to do: Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Road Biking · Food · Dining · Picnicking · Guided Tours · Boat Tour · Junior Ranger Program · Park Film · Museum Exhibits · Shopping · Bookstore and Park Store
ParkAtlas, maintained by Stellaroos, combines its park and trail dataset with public information from the National Park Service. NPS data snapshot retrieved . Fees, access, and conditions can change; verify current details with NPS before traveling.
Trails
Gateway Arch has roughly 3 named trails. Log the one you hiked in the app — or just the park if you're not sure.
Camping
There are no NPS campgrounds inside the park. Lodging and private campgrounds are typically available nearby.
Best time to visit
Peak season: Year-round. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
Pack for Gateway Arch
Four things worth having for forest trails and afternoon showers. From the full gear list; links support ParkAtlas.
Black Diamond daypack
Room for water, layers, snacks, and a first aid kit — nothing more.
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Marmot PreCip rain shell
Afternoon thunderstorms are a feature of the mountain West, not a bug.
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Salomon Speedcross trail runners
Grippy on slickrock and mud, light enough to forget about. I hike in these more than boots.
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EVERLIT mini first aid kit
Blister care and tweezers get used more than anything else.
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Entrance fees
- Timed Entry Reservation - Location — Prices vary by date of visit. Begin your tour with an interactive pre-boarding experience featuring 60s-inspired animation and Gateway Arch trivia. Then, be transported 630 feet to the top of Arch for exhilarating views. Please allow 45 - 60 minutes for your Tram Ride to the Top experience. Adult (16 and up): Starting at $15 Child (3-15): Starting at $11 Infant (2 and under): FREE Park Pass Holder: Starting at $12 Tickets available at www.gatewayarch.com$19
Visiting more than two parks this year? An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers entry to all of them.
Getting there
Nearest city: St. Louis, MO. Park center: 38.630°, -90.190°.
Coming from a big city? See every park near St. Louis or Kansas City.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Gateway Arch National Park?
Timed Entry Reservation - Location: $19.
When is the best time to visit Gateway Arch?
Peak season is Year-round. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules.
Can you camp in Gateway Arch National Park?
There are no NPS campgrounds inside the park; lodging and private campgrounds are available nearby.
What is the closest city to Gateway Arch National Park?
St. Louis, MO is the nearest major city.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.