Katy Trail Forum

I’ve ridden a lot of rail trails in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana some of which sound quite the same as the Katy, e.g. the GAP Trail. A friend and myself have decided to travel to Missouri and ride/camp the Katy Trail early next month. So, the question is, what might be the major difference(s) between the Katy and other rail trails? Anything, unusual we should bring with us, prepare for or gear that would be uniquely necessary on the Katy?

Thanks in advance.

Oktoberfest is big along the Katy Trail all next month. If you camp, then you will not really have to worry about sold out lodging, but you do have to worry about both shuttle companies and the Amtrak bike tickets getting sold out (if you plan on using either of those services). Water and food/services are all available throughout the month of October and sometimes businesses even have longer hours due to both Oktoberfest and fall visitors coming to see the leaves turn colors. The crushed limestone surface should be in great condition. Early summer flooding hit a few areas hard, but those sections have all been repaired and the recent dry weather has the surface in really good condition.

Mark:

Thanks for this info. Our logistics are all in place so we shouldn’t run into any issues on those fronts. The train service is a little different than on the Capital Limited that I often use to and from Washington, DC. The surface sounds just like the GAP Trail which is very good although I am a little concerned about how soft or sloppy it can get with rain but that’s just part of the adventure. The celebration of Octoberfest suggests a festive atmosphere amid travellers and shop owners which I look forward to.

We’re looking forward to crossing this trip off of our bucket list of bike rides.

Hi Rivnuts, I live in southwestern PA now, but lived in Jefferson City, Missouri for 30 years and biked the Katy trail for 12 years. Now I ride the GAP trail. I still follow this forum, as well as the bikecando.com website and forum.

You'll love the Katy Trail. The surface is basically like the GAP. I can't think of any unique gear you need. Have plenty of water. Even though it will be early October, it can be warm. The trailheads are about 10 miles apart and most of them will still have the water on in early October. Pay attention to the weather a week or so out. Sometimes the remnants of hurricanes can end up over Missouri. So do bring rain gear. Be sure and check out Cooper's Landing, it's a neat place, used to have "Boat Henge." It would be a good place to camp, they sometimes have live music. All the little towns are nice places. Portland has a bar and grill right on the trail with great hamburgers. I think Mokane also used to have a bar and grill close to the trail, again great hamburgers.

Herman and Washington are interesting river towns. As another poster pointed out, if you're there during Oktober Fest there will be hoardes of people. So be sure and have your reservations locked in. Also if the University of Missouri has a home game some places along the trail might be snatched up by football fans.

It sounds like your dates are locked in. But if not you might consider a day in Jefferson City. I see your posts on the bikecando.com website and you seem to be interested in history. You might enjoy doing a tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary. Google MSP to see what tours they offer and to make a reservation (required). You would also enjoy touring the Missouri State Capitol. Again google to find information on the tours and to make a reseration. The art in the capitol is amazing. I think you'd enjoy the Thomas Hart Benton Mural. If you are on a tour the guide will go into detail about the back story about the mural.

There are hotels in Jefferson City. I don't think they have camping. There was camping on the north side of the river, but I believe the park department recently closed that area, perhaps due to crime. Like everywhere, Jefferson City is seeing increased homelessness, and with that comes crime, due to bad actors.

There are Air B&Bs, one that I am aware of: The East High Street Retreat, which is on the eastside. You'd be close to at least 3 great restaurants on the 900 block of High St., or around the corner on Ash St. There's also a fantastic bar, The Mission, that has open mic nights every Wednes. My husband and I lived around the corner for a couple of years and The Mission was our favorite place.

I suspect your plans are made, but wanted to let you know about these options in Jefferson City. You will love the Katy Trail. Also, on the west end of the trail it now connects to the Rock Island Trail, which goes from Windsor to Pleasant Hill. Hopefully more of the Rock Island Trail will be completed in the next several years.

And if you do make it to Jefferson City, be sure to check out Central Dairy. The ice cream servings are huge. The city is about 2 miles from the trail, on a spur that is safe. The ride over the bridge on the pedestrian bike path is amazing.

Jefferson City does not have the biking infrastructure like Pittsburgh. But I think there's a couple of guys who work for the city who are working to change that. The city streets are pretty safe, as long as you avoid real busy thoroughfares. I would stay off of Missouri Blvd. But most of what you would be doing would be in the inner core, which is a little hilly here and there, but otherwise bikeable. If you bike in Pittsburgh you can handle the hills in Jefferson City.

I'll be happy to answer any other questions you have. I don't know anything about camping along the Katy Trail, but there are others on this forum who can give you good info on where to camp.

Cathy from Churchill:

Quoting an old adage, "Fancy seeing you here". I didn't expect a reply to my inquiry from a fellow GAP Trail Forum contributor. First of all, let me express my thanks for your timely reply providing very useful information about the Katy. I've made a number of notes on your recommended points of interests. Our mileage each day between overnight cities is fairly short allowing for some site seeing. You are correct about my interest in the history of the trails or routes I ride. I've been boning up on the Katy's history, geography and fauna to help in appreciating the trail even more since it is unlikely that I'll ever get back there although returning to add the Rock Island Trail in enticing. The addition of it being October Fest while we're there just adds to the lure of the trip.

In closing, we'll have to meet and share a coffee or ride on the GAP or elsewhere to chat about our riding experiences and recommendations.

RIVNUTS! What's up!!

As others have noted, the trail surface is very similar. No surprises there.

My only words of wisdom would be
1- if there is an amenity that you want to use, check with them now to see if they are open, and then confirm with them the day before. These are some very small businesses.
2- Carry enough food to last 24 hours in case you get shut out in some places. This advice may apply to water as well, although it's easier to get.

The Katy towns are just way smaller than the GAP towns. Yough Twister is bigger than any restaurant on the trail, just about.

Lewis and Clark is big stuff around here, so brush up on them before you come.

Best of luck and maybe we will see you out there. If you want my cell number, let me know how to send it to you.

To Bill from Houston, er ah, Columbia:

As I said to Cathy from Churchill, “Fancy seeing you here”. And here I thought I had made it off the grid to Missouri! Apparently my ankle bracelet employs some form of artificial intelligence that knows and gives away my future travel plans. If WKR from Brunswick responds here as well, I’ll know it is some form of conspiracy! :-)

Thanks for the additional suggestions for my upcoming ride on the Katy. Sure don’t want to run out of food or water along the trail. I’m participating in the Big BAM tour leaving Clinton on 10/7 in route to St Charles with overnight stops in Sedalia, Boonville, Jefferson City, Herman and Augusta. Looks like I’d be passing near Columbia on Wednesday although it appears to be about 10 miles one way from the McBaine Trailhead

Speaking of the Yough Twister, it has been refurbished and reopened under the name, The Big Twist. In fact, I stopped there today for some ice cream.

I’d look forward to chatting or FaceTiming some evening about your move from Houston and other thoughts on the Katy. You can send me your number to rivnuts@yahoo.com.

Best wishes and keep the rubber side down.

This site says Daniel Boone monument is .4 mile from KATY trail, but the Dufur guidebook says it is more than 1.2 miles from trail??

I like maps, so I opened Google Maps and looked at your issue. Both answers are correct. If you left the trail at the Marthasville trailhead then rode east through the community it would be a little over one mile to reach the site. The other option involves leaving the Katy where it intersects with Boone Monument Road which is east of Marthasville. Once you turn off the trail it’s a short 0.4 mile ride to reach the entrance to the monument site. Use your Google Maps skills to review the satellite images AND street view. I noticed that the monument is located slightly west of the man entrance/parking lot…..there are gates to that area which are probably only open during business hours. It appears that you can visit the actual monument anytime because there is a set of stairs leading directly from the road to the monument. My suggestion is if you are riding eastbound on the Katy you exit at Marthasville then ride through town. If you are a westbound Katy rider exit at Boone Monument Road to reach the site….once you’re done continue riding west into Marthasville where you’d get back on the Katy. It appears to be a light traffic area. Note that if you want to minimize any hills or climbs you may want to stick to entering or leaving from Boone Monument Road, not Marthasville.

I just finished up a 6 1/2 day solo ride from the KC Amtrak Station to the SL Amtrak Station. Did the entire Rock Island and entire Katy trails and crafted my own routes from the KC station to Truman Sports Complex and from Machens to the SL station crossing over the Mississippi at Alton and then back to the MO side at the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. I posted pics and narrative on X/Twitter (you don't need an account) @christensen_mr. If you have questions email me at christensen_mr@live.com. I had an absolute blast, met tons of fun people, had great food, etc. and stayed at some nice B&Bs.

Can the boy ride his electric Moto Cross bike on the Kati trail

https://mostateparks.com/page/57944/general-information#uses

"All motorized vehicles other than official or emergency vehicles are prohibited. Electrically assisted pedal-powered bicycles and tricycles (maximum speed of 20 mph) are allowed. Also allowed are electrically powered mobility devices for people with disabilities, such as Segways and electric golf carts."

If in doubt still: 800-334-6946
But I think it's pretty clear.

They’re the nicest. Would stay here again and again.

The dormitory was a phenomenal place to stay. Great location, clean and comfortable accommodations, and friendly hosts.

We rode the Katy Trail in August 2023 and camped at the Community Club Park. Restarurants very close by and a gas station. Had an amazing breakfast at The Rowdy Rooster. The camping was so easy. We just called when we arrived and they came and opened up the bathrooms/showers for us for the night. Would definetly camp here again.

The phone numbers provided are hit and miss. The easiest way to do this is call ahead to let them know your planning to stay. Go to the large square pavilion between the baseball diamonds and behind the concession building. If you wait long enough someone will come by to collect the meager $5 fee and then open the bathrooms. Bathrooms include showers, which I didn't use. There is a great water spigot on the front corner of the concession building. I used the small pavilion and hung a hammock. This sight is very hammock friendly

No water. Fountain has been torn apart. New Kickstand bike shop has some beverages and snacks.

Traveled Machens to Dutzow. Was very pleased to see ware. 2 bathrooms one good sibk with working water. Sept 15, 2024

Are there charging stations along the Katy Trail for E-bikes?

Ridden the entire trail twice this year. I don't recall seeing charging offered anywhere. Maybe there is a receptacle somewhere that could be used, but I saw nothing exclusively for e-bikes or mentioning that. I would guess there is juice at some of the trailheads, but I don't know how accessible it is to riders. If you really, really need to know, call DNR.

Yes. Tons of e bikes on the trail. You can charge at the bed and breakfasts. I imagine also at all the hotels. I don’t have one yet but I see a lot of them. You’ll be fine.

This is such a great resource!
We are driving to Clinton after BAM finishes and riding to St. Charles, catching a shuttle back to Clinton. Our plan is to camp the KATY and hotel when we get to St. Charles. Will there be services or stops that will have shut down after BAM? Are there any trailheads or camping spots that will not have water or be available at the end of the season?

I’m sure they don’t turn off the trail head water until mid November

From Katy Trail State Park:

Water is not available at all trailheads. Trailheads with modern restrooms and drinking water are winterized from Nov. 1 to April 1. The restrooms are closed and water turned off at these trailheads. Portable toilets are available during the winter.

If you're travelling West to East, there seems to be more water available on the first half of the ride than the second half.
Always have more than you think you'll need!

Can they actually pick you up with your bike and take you to St Charles? I don't see how.

Not all cabs are sedans. Some use vans. Some cabs I've seen in areas I've ridden have bike racks. I assume it depends on geographic and seasonal demand. My advice: Call 'em. Sometimes a local government knows the answer or can direct you. That's particularly true in small communities.

Call Bike Stop CAfe. They'll pick you up or they'll transport your vehicle to your end point. I've used them twice. Tony will take good care of you!

Can you cross HWY 135 on a bike to reach Dollar General from the Katy?

You can go south on Roe street, past Deon’s Bar and Grill, turn right on Fourth Street and that will take you down to Dollar General. You will cross State Hwy 135 on that route but it’s not like a super highway.

If you open google maps and use street view you’ll see it’s very simple. You could even shorten the side trip by exiting the trail at 2nd and Hall street since the trail crosses that intersection. Even if you rode down “State Hwy 135” it’s a 30 mph city street in town and there are sidewalks.

We are so glad we stayed at the Doll House! Ken and Melissa are such gracious hosts and the home is supremely comfortable. Delicious hot breakfast and very helpful suggestions. It was a special treat to be here.

Prefect location for our party of 8. Lots & lots of room, linens, towels, food, comfy beds, easy check-in and clean! Definitely stay again. Walked to Meriwether Cafe to rent bikes- super close to Katy Trail. Lovely town- super quiet and charming.

Hi, Ray. There's a new spot in Rocheport. See their page and my Facebook post, in case you want to put them on the map/listing in Rocheport.

Everyone else, there's a nice new little place in Rocheport. Sandwiches, charcuterie, cold drinks, single beers, live music.
Pleasant staff, reasonable prices.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555835357323
https://www.facebook.com/bill.rodgersjr/posts/pfbid037VKUwUNwVY7oL3jh3hy27eXzcq4pbwGKiLJ7VSK4ut32u73m8xnFvNM6hYRzS7D2l?__cft__[0]=AZX1f7isJwM3SanooaWI4d19Ay9_3Wmr1CSCVzVbdvpOpBTXXrs7VzkvZGbgf3o61aSFNhEQPHJA4i4FCpjf0CSfl-8lNMb3XqghfwYuMjNhfWUyTxsqoGAbHuyzdzS2Vxtt9nYh3O1UZj-_j10t87QKWBb9nwA8GQuPOOQ1d6WL-Q&__tn__=*F

Thank you Bill for the heads-up on The Rest Stop at Katy Jailhouse. Looks like a nice place, and bike rentals too!

I have added this to the Rocheport listings:
https://bikekatytrail.com/rocheport.aspx

Thanks again and happy trails!

Could you tell us the name of the place and where it is located please? Thanks.

Hi, Marna! It's called The Rest Stop at the Katy Jailhouse. Ray spotted it on the Rocheport map just right. 101 Central, Rocheport. It is right on the trail. You will see it when you roll in.

Thanks, Ray!

So in the beginning stages of a ride with the wife across MO on Katy and I am trying to figure out how to get from the trail end at Machens to the Amtrak station in Saint Louis. Do most people have a courrier pick them up or what kind of route to get there on a bike. I am trying to determine ho to get back into Saint Louis from across the river. Thanks

Are you trying to get to the Kirkwood Amtrak Station or the Downtown St. Louis station? The Downtown St. Louis route is actually easier and less on roads because you can take the paved levee trail along the Illinois state side to the Chain of Rocks Bridge, cross the Mississippi River back onto the Missouri side and take the Missouri paved trail all the way down to the Arch in Downtown St. Louis. There is a small roadway and shoulder section that you have to ride from Machens across the Missouri River into Alton where you pick up the Illinois trail system.

Thank you Mark from Lee’s Summit.for the route suggestion to the St. Louis Amtrak station.
I am planning to ride the Katy Trail to Machens in late September and want to ride Amtrak back to Lee’s Summit.
Do you have more detailed directions for the route or a map of the route that I can use?

Everett ... Here is a link to the Google Map bike route from Machens to the Downtown St. Louis Amtrak station: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=10pT0DWCIWs9I7xKTnzq3tfX99QKhqHw&usp=sharing ... You should be able to copy and paste this link to Google Maps.

Everett... The only thing that my Google Map route doesn't show is that you have the option to ride on St. Charles Street in West Alton in order to reach Route 67 quicker. Then you can ride the wrong way on the shoulder of the southbound lanes of Route 67 for less than a mile to the beginning of the West Alton Trail (or you can just walk your bike off of the shoulder). Or you can go ahead and follow the longer Google Map route exactly where you right northbound on the shoulder of Route 67.

Thank you, Matt C!

Thank you, Mark! I will use that route in early October.

Although most people seem to think October is the best time to ride. I’ve lived in Missouri all my life! I particularly feel that the sweet spot for cycling is usually about September 7 to October 17 or 18th by the time you get to the 23rd. It seems like every Oktoberfest, it could rain sometimes it’s cold and rainy so there’s about six or seven weeks in there that people aren’t using especially during the week that’s why we’re offering discounts at the Cycle Inn Hermann

Thanks for viewing Rich – owner 573-486-2000

Do you provide shuttle from the McKittrick trailhead to your Cycle Inn and back?

I've read here in the past about how long and unsafe the ride is into Hermann along the highway. Without a shuttle it appeared the only save place to stay was in McKittrick.

Are you sure you're not confusing the ride into Hermann with the ride into Washington? The ride into Hermann is safe and easy.

Nope...the ride to Hermann was what was deemed unsafe.

Having ridden into Hermann many times, I fully agree with Jim.

It's just under two miles, on wide paved shoulders - always felt very safe to me. Plus you get a cool view from the bike/ped section of the bridge over the Missouri River.

Hermann is a charming town and well worth the few miles side trip.

They were probably posts from before the new bridge was built. The old bridge was definitely scary to cross on a bike. Hell, it was scary to cross in a car!