Parking Question
- + I want to bike from St. Charles to Clinton. Can I leave my car for a week at the suggested St. Charles parking area? If so, do I need to notify the local police that the car will be there, pay a par...
Discussion started 02/10/2005 03:13 PM by Edna - 9 replies (last reply by Dana at 05/28/2013 12:13 PM)Edna from Waukesha, WI on 02/10/2005 03:13 PM
I want to bike from St. Charles to Clinton. Can I leave my car for a week at the suggested St. Charles parking area? If so, do I need to notify the local police that the car will be there, pay a parking fee, etc.?
Edna from Waukesha, WI on 02/10/2005 03:13 PM
I want to bike from St. Charles to Clinton. Can I leave my car for a week at the suggested St. Charles parking area? If so, do I need to notify the local police that the car will be there, pay a parking fee, etc.?
Ray (webmaster) on 02/15/2005 11:58 AM
I just spoke to the St Charles Police Dept about this - the officer said that it is NOT necessary to notify anyone before parking on the lot for an extended period. He said that the lot is patrolled frequently, but just be sure to lock the car. Parking is always free at all the Katy Trail trailhead parking lots. If you want to clarify anything with the St Charles Police Department, their non-emergency number is 636-949-3300.
Ray (webmaster) on 02/15/2005 11:58 AM
I just spoke to the St Charles Police Dept about this - the officer said that it is NOT necessary to notify anyone before parking on the lot for an extended period. He said that the lot is patrolled frequently, but just be sure to lock the car. Parking is always free at all the Katy Trail trailhead parking lots. If you want to clarify anything with the St Charles Police Department, their non-emergency number is 636-949-3300.
TacticalTed from St louis on 02/20/2005 10:57 AM
It is probably better to park in the parking lot/garage of the Ameristar casino which is maybe 1.5 miles down the trail. VERY SAFE. They patrol tons and it is well lit and always active. I do it often for my runs on the Katy and they never have a problem. If you felt obligated you could always give them a few dollars at the slot machine
TacticalTed from St louis on 02/20/2005 10:57 AM
It is probably better to park in the parking lot/garage of the Ameristar casino which is maybe 1.5 miles down the trail. VERY SAFE. They patrol tons and it is well lit and always active. I do it often for my runs on the Katy and they never have a problem. If you felt obligated you could always give them a few dollars at the slot machine
Andy & Linda from Wildwood, MO on 05/21/2006 03:24 PM
We are planning an overnight bike ride. Does anyone know if we can leave our vehicle overnight at Weldon Springs?
Andy & Linda from Wildwood, MO on 05/21/2006 03:24 PM
We are planning an overnight bike ride. Does anyone know if we can leave our vehicle overnight at Weldon Springs?
Ray (Webmaster) on 05/22/2006 10:23 PM
The official word that I've heard, is that overnight parking is fine at any of the trailheads. In the past there had been some vandalism problems at N Jefferson, but that was quite a while ago. I've never heard of any problems at Weldon Spring. Use your judgement and of course common sense stuff like not leaving valuables in the car.
Ray (Webmaster) on 05/22/2006 10:23 PM
The official word that I've heard, is that overnight parking is fine at any of the trailheads. In the past there had been some vandalism problems at N Jefferson, but that was quite a while ago. I've never heard of any problems at Weldon Spring. Use your judgement and of course common sense stuff like not leaving valuables in the car.
sbikes from Kansas City on 05/24/2006 11:16 PM
I would check with DNR. I know that for the portion in mid-Missouri I was specifically told by
the Park superintendent of that stretch that overnight parking was prohibited. I was helping
out with the DNR ride and needed to leave my car overnight and was told I could not legally
leave it at the trailhead. But, it may be different for the Eastern end of the trail as that part is
managed by a different park superintendent. And, I have been told there have been some
recent vandalism problems at N. Jefferson, but I don't have any first hand knowledge on this.
sbikes from Kansas City on 05/24/2006 11:16 PM
I would check with DNR. I know that for the portion in mid-Missouri I was specifically told by
the Park superintendent of that stretch that overnight parking was prohibited. I was helping
out with the DNR ride and needed to leave my car overnight and was told I could not legally
leave it at the trailhead. But, it may be different for the Eastern end of the trail as that part is
managed by a different park superintendent. And, I have been told there have been some
recent vandalism problems at N. Jefferson, but I don't have any first hand knowledge on this.
Jen from Willowick, OH on 06/21/2007 09:40 AM
My advice (from personal experience) is to definitely let the local police know if you're leaving your car at a trailhead for a week.
Jen from Willowick, OH on 06/21/2007 09:40 AM
My advice (from personal experience) is to definitely let the local police know if you're leaving your car at a trailhead for a week.
Jon from Missouri on 08/25/2007 08:27 AM
I called the city of St. Charles PD. I was told overnight parking (or longer) is available and the best place to park is at the lot SE of the Trailhead Brewery, near Boonslick/Riverside (OR Main?). They said that lot is patroled more frequently. I called today, 08-25-07.
Jon from Missouri on 08/25/2007 08:27 AM
I called the city of St. Charles PD. I was told overnight parking (or longer) is available and the best place to park is at the lot SE of the Trailhead Brewery, near Boonslick/Riverside (OR Main?). They said that lot is patroled more frequently. I called today, 08-25-07.
Jon from Missouri on 08/27/2007 08:31 PM
The above post is mine: we parked overnight at the lot just Southeast of Trailhead Brewery. This is the lot across the tracks. We had no problem and noted several other vehicles parked overnight also.
Jon from Missouri on 08/27/2007 08:31 PM
The above post is mine: we parked overnight at the lot just Southeast of Trailhead Brewery. This is the lot across the tracks. We had no problem and noted several other vehicles parked overnight also.
Dana from Sterling on 05/28/2013 12:13 PM
I see most of the questions and posts on this page are a few years old but I want to know as of June 2013, where is a good place to leave a vehicle overnight and/or three or four days safely?
Thanks,
Dana from Sterling on 05/28/2013 12:13 PM
I see most of the questions and posts on this page are a few years old but I want to know as of June 2013, where is a good place to leave a vehicle overnight and/or three or four days safely?
Thanks,
Cliff Manor B & B
- + The Cliff Manor B & B in Jefferson City is opened under new management. The new owners are looking forward to continuing the tradition of this wonderful B & B.
Discussion started 05/28/2013 12:03 AM by Cathy - 1 reply (last reply by MAH at 05/28/2013 10:44 AM)Cathy from Jefferson City on 05/28/2013 12:03 AM
The Cliff Manor B & B in Jefferson City is opened under new management. The new owners are looking forward to continuing the tradition of this wonderful B & B.
MAH from Blue Springs, MO on 05/28/2013 10:44 AM
Awesome! Missed being able to staying there last fall when we did a thru ride of the trail. Can't wait to stay there again!
Cliff Manor B & B
- + It's official. The Ciff Manor B & B is opened under new management in Jefferson City. The new owner is looking forward to continuing the history of a successfull B & B at the Cliff Manor.
Discussion started 05/27/2013 11:32 PM by Cathy - 0 repliesCathy from Jefferson City on 05/27/2013 11:32 PM
It's official. The Ciff Manor B & B is opened under new management in Jefferson City. The new owner is looking forward to continuing the history of a successfull B & B at the Cliff Manor.
Katy Trail restaurant
- + we saw a restaurant up a hill while biking the KT. East of Rocheport. Does any one have information on that place?
Discussion started 05/27/2013 08:04 PM by Alan - 1 reply (last reply by Jim at 05/27/2013 09:45 PM)Alan on 05/27/2013 08:04 PM
we saw a restaurant up a hill while biking the KT. East of Rocheport. Does any one have information on that place?
Jim from St Thomas on 05/27/2013 09:45 PM
That would be this place.
http://missouriwine.com/blufftop-bistro/
Jefferson City Layover
- + I just completed a 5 day ride from Clinton to St. Charles with my wife, brother and biking pal. I plan to make lots of comments throughout the website, but wanted to say a few things about Jeff. City...
Discussion started 05/15/2013 02:27 PM by Denbo - 2 replies (last reply by tikaani at 05/27/2013 05:39 PM)Denbo from Louisville KY on 05/15/2013 02:27 PM
I just completed a 5 day ride from Clinton to St. Charles with my wife, brother and biking pal. I plan to make lots of comments throughout the website, but wanted to say a few things about Jeff. City. The new access across the river is fantastic and fun. Our stay at the Baymont on Miller Street was a very pleasant surprise. Dennis, who was working behind the desk was very cheerful and helpful. He recommended a restaurant within short walking distance and we all highly recommend the Baymont.
Bill P from Ottawa, KS on 05/15/2013 06:51 PM
Denbo - agreed on both counts. We rode the Katy in October (Clinton to Machens) with one of the overnights in Jeff City. That access bridge is pretty cool, and we, too, stayed at the Baymont :)They recommended Aris Pizza to us, which we absolutely loved.
tikaani from jefferson city on 05/27/2013 05:39 PM
We also have a great greenway with entrances on both dunklin and broadway not far from Baymont. The wears creek section allows safe and easy access to many restaraunts and grocery etc.
flats
- + We are going to be biking from Booneville to Hermann, one of the bikes has 700x35 tires with a smoother center tread and knobbier edges, the other bike has bontrager lt2 700x38 tires with a more fine ...
Discussion started 05/23/2013 12:21 PM by Jason - 5 replies (last reply by tikaani at 05/27/2013 05:25 PM)Jason from tonganoxie on 05/23/2013 12:21 PM
We are going to be biking from Booneville to Hermann, one of the bikes has 700x35 tires with a smoother center tread and knobbier edges, the other bike has bontrager lt2 700x38 tires with a more fine pavement tread pattern (they supposedly have some type of flat protection built in). My question: are flats really that big of a deal on the Katy? I have read some places that make it sound like you'll have a flat every 1/2 mile if you don't use the right tire. I find this hard to believe. I'm trying to decide if I want to mess with switch tires or adding liners, etc. Any opinions?
ArkyKenny on 05/23/2013 12:35 PM
What you have should work fine. Thorns are more of a problem in the fall. Right now you'll be dealing with loose top surface, ruts, transition areas where the trail crosses roads and driveways etc. That, plus the little limestone "Arrowheads" that are always on the Katy.
I'm a fan of big/wide tires with about 65 psi of air. I ride 700c x 40 semi-slicks. Before I got them, I used mountain bike I put drop bars on with 26 x 1.75 semi-slicks. I don't like vibration, ruts, or being careful when I cross a road. But those are my preference, not what you need.
Others swear by 28's or 32's. There has been thread after thread of discussion on the subject on this page. You can no doubt read for yourself those threads, but IMO, what you have will probably work fine (unless you are looking for a reason to get something else--Then you need to go get what you want!!!).
However you go, bring tubes, a patch kit, and a pump: Then have fun.
Anonymous on 05/23/2013 06:24 PM
I am one of those who rides 28s most of the times and 32s now and then. I have never had any trouble with either one in terms of width.
The key to me is flat protection! I always enjoy my time on the KATY more if I don't have to change some flats.
I think you'll be fine with your tires, but agree fully to make sure to have a patch kit or two, several tubes and a pump.
Frank from Heber Springs on 05/27/2013 07:04 AM
In a short 80 mile ride, I saw two flats. They were both at McKittrick but that may not be fair to say since they can happen anywhere. They were both from very small "petrified" burrs. One was on a tire with no liner or thornproof tube. The other was on the sidewall of a rear tire of a handcycle (3 wheel) that did have liners. Just take a patch kit and pump and go.
Ben Herr from Lyons, Colorado on 05/27/2013 07:16 AM
When riding from Sedalia to St.Charles last year, our group was told to be wary of the edges of the trail, as that is where the "goat-heads" hang out. Following this advice, My wife and I had no problems with flats. I know a number of others did. I don't use "slime" in my tubes as it's rather messy, but I know several people that swear by it.
tikaani from jefferson city on 05/27/2013 05:25 PM
I saw three flats between n. Jeff city and hartsburg last week. I think most of them were from areas with exposed rocks at washouts. Like others have said carry a patch kit and pump.
post to Facebook
or share this link to just this thread:
flats
https://bikekatytrail.com/talk.aspx?tid=6393&tonly=1
Rocheport to McBaine Katy trail
- + Planning a ride at Rocheport to McBaine what is the elevation like? Steep grade or resonably level? Not a seasoned cyclist but have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
Discussion started 02/12/2013 08:37 AM by Toni - 7 replies (last reply by MidSouth at 05/27/2013 07:38 AM)Toni from Kearney MO on 02/12/2013 08:37 AM
Planning a ride at Rocheport to McBaine what is the elevation like? Steep grade or resonably level? Not a seasoned cyclist but have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
Darrell from Jefferson City, Mo. on 02/12/2013 09:28 AM
It's flat Toni, enjoy yourself.
El Toro on 02/12/2013 09:43 AM
Agree with Darrell - FLAT!
Toni from Kearney MO on 02/12/2013 10:10 AM
thanks Darrell
Don from Ellisville on 02/12/2013 12:46 PM
Pretty much the entire Eastern two-thirds of the trail is flat. In fact, you can think of the Boonville bridge as the transition between flat and hilly. The elevation chart on this site is excellent: http://www.bikekatytrail.com/elevations.aspx
Figs from Olathe, KS on 02/12/2013 03:42 PM
I rode that section (actually Rocheport to N. Jeff City and back) last October. There are no hills. The only noticed elevation changes are the rise in the trail as you approach one of the many scenic bridges. There are elevation maps, and they show that the real elevation changes are near Boonville. The rest of the ride you'll be on will follow the river.
Anonymous on 05/26/2013 02:45 PM
FYI.
There is nothing in Easley. Unless there is something beyond the 162 mile marker. We didn't see a thing resembling facilities in or around Easley. McBaine is the best place for a rest stop.
MidSouth from Rogersville, MO on 05/27/2013 07:38 AM
coopers Landing is in Easley. They have food, water, beer, ice cream, coffee, camping, PortaPotti. What else where you looking for?
Cell Phone Signal
- + The Hubster and I will be on the trail June 3rd. Riding Huntsdale to Pilot Grove and Huntsdale to Tebbetts. Staying at Katfish Katy's. How is cell phone signal? We have AT&T. I am sure this question h...
Discussion started 05/22/2013 12:33 PM by Marjie - 4 replies (last reply by Frank at 05/27/2013 06:49 AM)Marjie from Genoa City, WI on 05/22/2013 12:33 PM
The Hubster and I will be on the trail June 3rd. Riding Huntsdale to Pilot Grove and Huntsdale to Tebbetts. Staying at Katfish Katy's. How is cell phone signal? We have AT&T. I am sure this question has been asked before but I couldn't find any recent. We want to use GPS on our iPhones to log miles.
MidSouth from Rogersville, MO on 05/22/2013 01:08 PM
I rode from Sedalia to Tebbetts and back two weeks ago. I had fairly good cell coverage everywhere, sometimes 4G, except Tebbetts, which was weak, but still a signal. I have Verizon. You will enjoy camping at Katfish Katy's, right on the river!
Marjie from Genoa City, WI on 05/24/2013 09:36 AM
thanks MidSouth, looking forward to camping on the river.
DC on 05/25/2013 08:59 PM
I have went from Rocheport to Tebbets with Iphone on AT&T and have not had any issues getting signal
Frank from Heber Springs on 05/27/2013 06:49 AM
Camped at Katfish Katy's last Thursday. 1-2 bar ATT signal. Enjoyed the stay but bathroom and shower room not too clean (and NOT handicap accessible). Enjoyed a full moon ride to Lucy's about 3 miles east. Good people there.
June 10th
- + 1st timers for the Katy on a tandem. Planing a 4 day ride. Where should we start/finish? What are the must sees?
Discussion started 05/26/2013 07:34 PM by Kelly - 1 reply (last reply by Darrell at 05/27/2013 02:31 AM)Kelly from Wichita, KS on 05/26/2013 07:34 PM
1st timers for the Katy on a tandem. Planing a 4 day ride. Where should we start/finish? What are the must sees?
Darrell from Jefferson City, Mo. on 05/27/2013 02:31 AM
Kelly, to get an idea of what you may like best, read through or scan through a few pages here. The collective answer to your question is there. Enjoy your ride!
Planning Overnight trip from Mokane to St. Charles
- + Hello,I am planning to do an overnight trip from Mokane or Tebbetts to St. Charles and probably into St. Louis. I had a few questions:Is there any reason I would not be able to complete 60 miles a day...
Discussion started 05/25/2013 09:05 PM by Matt - 3 replies (last reply by Darrell at 05/27/2013 02:17 AM)Matt from Saint Louis on 05/25/2013 09:05 PM
Hello,
I am planning to do an overnight trip from Mokane or Tebbetts to St. Charles and probably into St. Louis.
I had a few questions:
Is there any reason I would not be able to complete 60 miles a day. Admittedly, I have never put 60 mi on a bike in one day, but I have put 45 or so without much difficulty. I consider myself to be in good shape and can run 13+ miles without much difficulty.
Secondly, is there any reason to start at Tebbetts instead of Mokane. I figured I should err on the side of caution and do a shorter route. Unless, of course, there is something in that area I just shouldn't miss.
Any other advice about the trail in this area during this time of year.
Any other suggestions or advice.
Thanks a lot.
Matt
Denbo from Louisville KY on 05/26/2013 07:11 AM
Matt, you might want to scroll down a couple pages and read my Trail Report May 9-13. We rode the entire trail in 5 days, with one day of 68 miles and one just shy of 60. I will be 68 in August and cannot run 13 miles. The limiting factor would probably be how long you can stand to sit on your saddle and if you ride 45 miles, you can certainly ride 60. Just take breaks when you feel the need.
Matt from St. Louis on 05/26/2013 01:30 PM
Thanks a lot for the reply. Going to read it now.
Darrell from Jefferson City, Mo. on 05/27/2013 02:17 AM
Maybe others know of something you would miss out on by starting in Mokane, but I can't think of anything other than the scenery, which is pretty much the same heading east from Mokane. Oh, and if you are lucky, you might be able to get a soda or beer in Tebbets but you can't count on it. The distance difference is 6 miles closer to St. Charles.
And, what Denbo said! Saddle time is the best prep you can do. Just did back to back 40+ mile days, normally no biggie, but having not ridden much this year, that part that comes into contact with the saddle sure is sore.