How is scenery between Sedalia and Clinton?
-  + My husband and I rode the Katy in a couple different areas this summer--Rocheport area and Weldon Spring to Dutzow. We are planning to go to the western side for a short ride this weekend. Any sugge...
Discussion started 09/30/2010 01:36 PM by DLM - 9 replies (last reply by Anonymous at 10/04/2010 11:15 AM)DLM from Des Moines on 09/30/2010 01:36 PM
My husband and I rode the Katy in a couple different areas this summer--Rocheport area and Weldon Spring to Dutzow. We are planning to go to the western side for a short ride this weekend. Any suggestions for the most scenic part of the trail in that area? (We won't ride the entire distance between Sedalia and Clinton so want the best part of that route.) Thanks for any info you can provide!
Trek on 09/30/2010 02:56 PM
In all of our ventures, we've never ridden between Clinton and Sedalia. That section has never gotten rave reviews....too many open fields, horse tracks, etc. I'd opt for Boonville to Sedalia and stay at the Hotel Bothwell in Sedalia...or an out and back from Boonville toward Sedalia.
We're riding the Racoon River Valley this weekend.....any Fall color in the Des Moines area?
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 09/30/2010 03:45 PM
I like the Clinton to Sedalia stretch for a change of scenery - did it earlier this summer. The Windsor to Green Ridge stretch has the highest point on the trail - since it is mostly open you will want to pick your direction based on the wind forecast the day of your ride.
I've never had a problem with horse tracks on that part of the trail.
DLM from Des Moines on 09/30/2010 05:54 PM
Thanks for the input. So it doesn't sound like there is any scenery even close to similar to the Rocheport to McBaine area east of Rocheport?
Regarding Raccoon River Valley Trail: It is very close to where we live. I haven't been on it to the west recently as we've been out of town during the last week. However, it appears right now to be still mostly green. Colors are just barely starting here. There are a little red and yellow "here and there".
Thanks again for the comments!
DLM from Des Moines on 09/30/2010 05:58 PM
I didn't state that correctly above---I mean it sounds like there isn't any scenery in the area west of Rocheport close to the beauty of the scenery that is east of Rocheport. Is that correct?
Is it correct that once the trail does not follow the river that it isn't as scenic (other than open fields, etc.)?
Anonymous on 09/30/2010 11:27 PM
Nice canopies and bridges near Calhoun. Overall, the scenery is more countrified on the western end, but it is very interesting depending on what one likes. For example, wildlife-wildplant restoration has been done along the trail there.
Also, some of the greenest fields I've ever seen are there, and the fall colors are okay too. The trail is not all open there; lots of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Right now, you might witness the harvesting of crops as well, which can be spectacular. If you decide to try it, I hear the bar-grill-cafe in Green Ridge puts out good bicyclist food.
Anonymous on 10/01/2010 10:02 AM
You are south of Whiteman Airforce Base when you ride between Sedalia and Clinton. I've seen the Stealth bomber and assorted other fighter planes while riding that section when the timing was right. If on that section you never know if you may catch a glimpse of one. I also like the scenery between Clinton and Boonville. Beautiful farmland and deep woods. Every section of the trail has its' own beauty to offer though. I've only had trouble with hoof prints a couple of times in the past 5 years. Wouldn't let that be a deal breaker.
Anonymous on 10/01/2010 11:59 AM
Sedalia to Pilot Grove is a good place to see the Stealth bomber also.
Anonymous on 10/01/2010 02:02 PM
i rode the clinton to sediala route last yr. i actually enjoyed it. there were open fields, but i enjoyed it though, especially knowing i was riding such an historic route where the trains used to operate.
Anonymous on 10/04/2010 11:15 AM
Although horse tracks do show up on the western end now and then, they’re easier to ride around than the occasional tractor ruts seen elsewhere on the trail.
One of the super characteristics of the Katy is its changing diversified scenery and lifestyles from end to end. Newcomers are usually awed by the huge cliffs next to the big river along with the Deliverance-movie backwoods small-hamlet settings between Rocheport and Claysville not to mention the Native American/Lewis-Clark history also there and further east of there. Still, the overall varied scenery is what makes the Katy a greatly appreciated trail.
El Tapatio (Sedalia)
-  + Ate here for dinner, it was decent middle of the road Mexican. I had grilled shrimp
fajitas and my wife had tacos carnitas.
Discussion started 10/03/2010 07:08 PM by Clay G - 1 reply (last reply by Anonymous at 10/04/2010 11:10 AM)Clay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 07:08 PM
Ate here for dinner, it was decent middle of the road Mexican. I had grilled shrimp
fajitas and my wife had tacos carnitas.
Clay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 07:08 PM
Ate here for dinner, it was decent middle of the road Mexican. I had grilled shrimp
fajitas and my wife had tacos carnitas.
Anonymous on 10/04/2010 11:10 AM
We've eaten there, too. Above average servings and qualilty then.
Anonymous on 10/04/2010 11:10 AM
We've eaten there, too. Above average servings and qualilty then.
USA Inn, Clinton
-  + We stayed here 10/03/10. Made prior reservations. Check in was a breeze. Very modest room but clean. Plenty of space for two adults, bicyles and gear. Hot water, free wifi, fridge, microwave and ...
Discussion started 10/04/2010 08:36 AM by Sam Black - 0 repliesSam Black from Fairfax, IA on 10/04/2010 08:36 AM
We stayed here 10/03/10. Made prior reservations. Check in was a breeze. Very modest room but clean. Plenty of space for two adults, bicyles and gear. Hot water, free wifi, fridge, microwave and 25 inche flatscreen tv. Affordably priced at $44.95. I think there is also a continental breakfast available.
Davidson Transportation (Sedalia)
-  + June 25- Debbie Davidson transported us and our bicycles from Clinton to the Sedalia Amtrak Depot. The price was competitive and had a great time chatting on the hour long trip. Will definitely cal...
Discussion started 08/22/2010 03:07 PM by Curt and Kathy - 1 reply (last reply by Sam Black at 10/04/2010 08:08 AM)Curt and Kathy from Silex, MO on 08/22/2010 03:07 PM
June 25- Debbie Davidson transported us and our bicycles from Clinton to the Sedalia Amtrak Depot. The price was competitive and had a great time chatting on the hour long trip. Will definitely call Davidson Transportation again.
Curt and Kathy from Silex, MO on 08/22/2010 03:07 PM
June 25- Debbie Davidson transported us and our bicycles from Clinton to the Sedalia Amtrak Depot. The price was competitive and had a great time chatting on the hour long trip. Will definitely call Davidson Transportation again.
Sam Black from Fairfax, IA on 10/04/2010 08:08 AM
Linda and I rode Davidson Transportation last night (10/03/10). Debbie was on time, courteous, and engaging. She gave a "stranded" cyclist we met on the train a ride from the depot in Sedalia to the Hotel Bothwell, no charge. Sure the cyclist could have walked the four blocks to the hotel but... She had three large boxes in addition to her bike and it would have meant several trips between the hotel and the depot in the dark. Debbie just strikes us as a kind spitit. We will definitely use Davidson Tranportation for our next KATY trail caper.
Sam Black from Fairfax, IA on 10/04/2010 08:08 AM
Linda and I rode Davidson Transportation last night (10/03/10). Debbie was on time, courteous, and engaging. She gave a "stranded" cyclist we met on the train a ride from the depot in Sedalia to the Hotel Bothwell, no charge. Sure the cyclist could have walked the four blocks to the hotel but... She had three large boxes in addition to her bike and it would have meant several trips between the hotel and the depot in the dark. Debbie just strikes us as a kind spitit. We will definitely use Davidson Tranportation for our next KATY trail caper.
Green Ridge Bar and Grill (Green Ridge)
-  + Burf's has been closed through the month of September. We will re-open
on October the 6th. we will be open for breakfast and lunch. We will be
opening at 7:am and close at 2:PM Wednesday throu...
Discussion started 09/26/2010 11:38 AM by burfett - 1 reply (last reply by burfett at 10/04/2010 12:34 AM)burfett from Green Ridge, Mo. on 09/26/2010 11:38 AM
Burf's has been closed through the month of September. We will re-open
on October the 6th. we will be open for breakfast and lunch. We will be
opening at 7:am and close at 2:PM Wednesday through Saturday. Please let
your friends know that we have hot food and cold drinks. We hope to see
you at the bar and grill in Green Ridge, Mo. We will provide you with a
friendly atmosphere and lots of free ice water for your journey.
Thank you for your support!!!
Burfett
burfett from Green Ridge, Mo. on 09/26/2010 11:38 AM
Burf's has been closed through the month of September. We will re-open
on October the 6th. we will be open for breakfast and lunch. We will be
opening at 7:am and close at 2:PM Wednesday through Saturday. Please let
your friends know that we have hot food and cold drinks. We hope to see
you at the bar and grill in Green Ridge, Mo. We will provide you with a
friendly atmosphere and lots of free ice water for your journey.
Thank you for your support!!!
Burfett
burfett from Green Ridge, Mo. on 10/04/2010 12:34 AM
I am sorry to inform the riders of katy trail that Burf's Bar& Grill in
Green Ridge, Mo. will NOT be reopening.This has been a difficult
decision for us to make and will miss the riders very much. We thank you
for your patronage and wish you the best on your rides.
Thank you,
Dan and Sheila Burford
burfett from Green Ridge, Mo. on 10/04/2010 12:34 AM
I am sorry to inform the riders of katy trail that Burf's Bar& Grill in
Green Ridge, Mo. will NOT be reopening.This has been a difficult
decision for us to make and will miss the riders very much. We thank you
for your patronage and wish you the best on your rides.
Thank you,
Dan and Sheila Burford
Yates House B&B (Rocheport)
-  + Simply the nicest b&b we've ever stayed at. Attention to detail, like super comfortable
bed with really nice sheets. Dixie is an incredible cook, we had creme brûlée french
taoast with a fru...
Discussion started 10/03/2010 09:02 AM by Clay G - 0 repliesClay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 09:02 AM
Simply the nicest b&b we've ever stayed at. Attention to detail, like super comfortable
bed with really nice sheets. Dixie is an incredible cook, we had creme brûlée french
taoast with a fruit topping, and Conrad was super nice. A little more expensive than
anywhere else we stayed, but you know what your paying for.
Clay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 09:02 AM
Simply the nicest b&b we've ever stayed at. Attention to detail, like super comfortable
bed with really nice sheets. Dixie is an incredible cook, we had creme brûlée french
taoast with a fruit topping, and Conrad was super nice. A little more expensive than
anywhere else we stayed, but you know what your paying for.
Georgetown Inn (Sedalia)
-  + Ms. Downing, the owner is just one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. It was
raining the night we stayed there and she drove us out to a restaurant, picked us up,
and took me to the walm...
Discussion started 10/03/2010 08:56 AM by Clay G - 0 repliesClay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 08:56 AM
Ms. Downing, the owner is just one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. It was
raining the night we stayed there and she drove us out to a restaurant, picked us up,
and took me to the walmart as well so I could get a patch kit. And breakfast included
farm fresh eggs from her own chickens. The home was built in 1842 by the founder of
Sedalia.
Clay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 08:56 AM
Ms. Downing, the owner is just one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet. It was
raining the night we stayed there and she drove us out to a restaurant, picked us up,
and took me to the walmart as well so I could get a patch kit. And breakfast included
farm fresh eggs from her own chickens. The home was built in 1842 by the founder of
Sedalia.
Lococo House III (St Charles)
-  + Rhona & Leo are awesome. We stayed our first night with them and they shuttled us
Clinton. and we were able to park there and she let us shower upon return. if this
wasn't enough Leo told us...
Discussion started 10/03/2010 08:45 AM by Clay G - 0 repliesClay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 08:45 AM
Rhona & Leo are awesome. We stayed our first night with them and they shuttled us
Clinton. and we were able to park there and she let us shower upon return. if this
wasn't enough Leo told us that if anything happened to us on the trail, he'd come pick
us up. They are close to the trail as well as a street full of restaurants and bars. when
we were done we just biked right up to their place. they made our trip a breeze.
Clay G from Nashville on 10/03/2010 08:45 AM
Rhona & Leo are awesome. We stayed our first night with them and they shuttled us
Clinton. and we were able to park there and she let us shower upon return. if this
wasn't enough Leo told us that if anything happened to us on the trail, he'd come pick
us up. They are close to the trail as well as a street full of restaurants and bars. when
we were done we just biked right up to their place. they made our trip a breeze.
To Cross-Country TransAM’ers who do the Katy
-  + A safe bicycle pathway across the Missouri River in Kansas City, MO is now available officially. This 10-ft wide paved trail on the Heart of America Bridge (Route-9) has concrete barriers and high gua...
Discussion started 10/03/2010 12:20 AM by Anonymous - 0 repliesAnonymous on 10/03/2010 12:20 AM
A safe bicycle pathway across the Missouri River in Kansas City, MO is now available officially. This 10-ft wide paved trail on the Heart of America Bridge (Route-9) has concrete barriers and high guard rails. From the north side of the river, it goes right to the center of KC and its amenities.
Cross country bicycles who want to pass thru KC for rest and refreshment on their way to or from the Katy can now cross the Big Muddy safely here. Also, another passage over this river will be available in November, across the Chouteau Bridge 1-2 miles east of this one.
Trail Behavior
-  + 09/07/2010
My wife & I were on the Katy on Sunday, 9/5, from New Franklin to Hartsburg & back. I wish to state for the record that I found the level of inconsideration, thoughtlessness, & downr...
Discussion started 09/08/2010 10:44 PM by David from Kansas - 27 replies (last reply by Greg at 10/01/2010 09:23 PM)David from Kansas from Kansas City on 09/08/2010 10:44 PM
09/07/2010
My wife & I were on the Katy on Sunday, 9/5, from New Franklin to Hartsburg & back. I wish to state for the record that I found the level of inconsideration, thoughtlessness, & downright rudeness on the part of numerous cyclists to be absolutely appalling. And by far & away, the majority of this behavior came from those who present themselves as “serious cyclists.” We encountered numerous riders who simply came barreling past with no announcement of themselves whatsoever, traveling at high speed. Yes, I know that we all need to be aware of what’s around us, but this action is especially dangerous in that startling others either on bike or foot can cause serious problems. I personally also find it extremely rude of anyone who refuses to acknowledge others on the trail, as if they feel that they are just too good for the common folk. I have been riding the Katy for at least 6 years now & would have to say that I saw more rudeness & discourtesy in this one day than I have in the last 6 years put together. What made matters worse, too, was that being a holiday weekend, there were many families with small or young children, who do at times have a tendency to be children & not follow the proper rules of the trail, no matter how hard Mom & Dad try to keep them in line. These ‘serious cyclists’ also created an unsafe & hostile atmosphere for them as well. I understand that the majority of truly serious cyclists would never act in this manner, & I apologize in advance for offending these people. Those who do act in the manner described above know who you are and now know what others think of you & your behavior.
David from Kansas
Mark from West Des Moines on 09/09/2010 05:52 PM
I'll second that...
Mark from Columbia, MO on 09/10/2010 03:32 PM
I have a considerble amount of hearing loss and unless someone coming from behind announces themselves, I may not have noticed them in the side view mirror.
Courtesy and common sense go a long way.
Chuck L from Jefferson City on 09/14/2010 05:40 AM
Hi David and I agree wholeheartedly with your comments and experience. I have not encountered quite as many such people as you seem to have but I make a point of greeting everyone I pass on the trail, just a Hello or a nod in some cases. To completely ignore such a greeting is downright rude and has nothing to do with bicycling, just common courtesy. I must say that MOST folks return the greeting and often greet with real friendliness. Way to go folks! And it is true that the ones who do not respond seem to be the "serious" riders, full biking outfit, nose to the wheel, etc. Hey guys! If I said hello walking down the street would you refuse to respond? Maybe its just me. Recently I rode Jeff City to Tebbetts, I passed just ONE guy. He refused to speak. I guess it must be me.
Kurt from St. Charles on 09/15/2010 12:13 PM
Sorry, brother! I’m a cyclist who usually goes at a higher rate of speed. When I’m motoring I pretty much always use a bell. When I’m tired, though, and I’m barely moving (~12 – 14 mph), it seems like a huge effort to me to use it. I’ve noted, though, that you’d like cyclists to warn all the time and I’ll try to do it.
From a cyclist’s perspective, what I would suggest is to provide some feedback: positive or negative. I never know whether announcing my passing is appreciated or considered—I don’t know…showing off? Don’t know how to put it. Like I’m some kind of hot shot, you know? So, I’d suggest giving a wave when cyclists do warn of their passing. This lets me know 1) you heard, 2) you probably appreciate. For negative feedback just yell at the most offensive cyclists “please say ‘on your left’!” or something to that effect. They may not hear, though, because headphones are common.
One more suggestion: reason I use a bell rather than say “on your left” is that I feel it’s more effective. Some people don’t know their right from left or at least they have to think about it for a few seconds, so when they hear you’re going to pass on the left, it creates a dangerous back and forth with both of us zig zagging across the trail. Another thing I’ve noticed is that when people hear “on your left” for some reason they don’t move right or stay straight, but rather they look over their left shoulder to see who said that and their whole body follows. Again, this leads them to the direction I was going to pass them on. Dangerous. All readers, please resist this impulse and just move right.
James Mason from Dallas, TX on 09/15/2010 01:16 PM
I have noticed that the "Lance wannabes" as I refer to them are absolute jerks - toward pedestrians, other cyclists, little kids - mostly male, but some are young women.
Frank from Little Rock on 09/15/2010 02:15 PM
We have the same problem on the Big Dam Bridge her in NLR/LR. Since I am more ruuner than biker I can offer a simple observation. Runners seem to be much more social and bikers much more cliquish. Runners tend to be much less competitivie where bikers are very competitive. It is nice that we have these improved facilities and trails for ALL to use. From a runners perpective bikers seem rude. From a bikers perspective runners/walkers are merely a nuisance. I agree that the best accomodation would be for all to smile, alert and acknowledge. Have the good time you go out there for and just smile when the rude nerds fly by. You'll feel better.
Dave from Kansas on 09/15/2010 02:43 PM
Thank you all for your positive feedback! As for calling out, I usually try to call out something to the effect of "Coming up behind you" from about 50 feet back. I like to have folks be able to know I'm there before I'm on top of them (keeps them from having a heart attack), & I totaly agree re giving greeting as we pass. Thanks again!
Maggie from Kansas on 09/15/2010 02:53 PM
There is a speed limit on the trail 10 mph - or is that just on the Frisco Highline? Regardless, don't the rules for the trail state clearly that you are to announce when you are going to pass someone. And you should do so far in advance as not to startle them and to give them time to move over safely. Or, are these merely suggetions?We could look at the other rules - like, no trash - pets on a leash, etc. These rules are there to keep people safe. (And no, I don't know that your dog does not bite, he's not my friend as I have never met him. And oops, your dog is attached to my leg with it's teeth? Wow my problem, I should have kept my leg out of his mouth?) Everyone wants to have a good time, an enjoyable time. I holler out a good ways back to show respect and allow time for the person ahead to think and would appreciate that they acknowlege they heard me and I usually keep calling out until they do before I pass. I have to laugh at the person who says "motoring" - motors are for the highway! Just kidding - since 12-14 mph is my "motoring speed." I love the Katy - I've even grown to love the desert between Clinton and Calhoun, Bryson rocks!(Whatever) In closing: "May you have air in your tires and not in your head, water in your bottle and not on the trail."
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 09/15/2010 03:19 PM
Good one Maggie - you made my day.
Jim from st louis on 09/15/2010 08:41 PM
I would just like to point out that there are as many rude runners as there are bikers (I am both a runner and a cyclist). Runners simply have more time to socialize with a nod or hello. Sometimes a cyclist is really cruising and passing a lot of people and to say hi to every soul on a trail would be overkill. How about instead of demonizing bikers we acknowledge that there are simply rude people who happen to be riding bikes (or running). I have often struggled with the same thing as others...sometimes you announce you are coming and you get a dirty look. Sometimes people dont hear the bell. My solution is to try to do the bell and as I get closer, say "passing on the left". if I get a dirty look I assume someone just doesnt understand the custom. No harm no foul.
Anonymous on 09/15/2010 10:25 PM
It kind of looks like city folks complaining about other city folks.
Anonymous on 09/17/2010 09:13 PM
Leaving out the Saint Charles area, I may ride the whole trail and see 10 other bikes during the week. Being a lonely soul, I appreciate any contact with humanity. Only problem I have had was when I was lost in my thoughts and not paying attention.
Aaron from Columbia on 09/19/2010 11:17 PM
I've been riding the MKT and Katy since '98, and I signal that I'm passing probably 90% of the time. Occasionally, people look back and see me coming, or they're wearing headphones, so I see no point in calling ahead if it's not needed or won't be heard.
While I see your point that many cyclist are rude, you also have to keep in mind that the trail--like a road--has general traffic rules, even if they're not written in stone. Stay to the right, look behind yourself, and pay full attention to those around you.
I don't know how many times I've yelled, "ON YOUR LEFT!" only to be ignored due to headphone use, people chatting and not paying attention to anyone else, etc. I also have a lot of issues with people walking their dogs on those extending leashes and not caring that they are, in effect, taking up the entire width of the trail. Add conversing on top of that, and cyclists quickly end up at a road block whether we signal or not.
Also, if I chose to ignore you, it's not because I think I'm better than you. Maybe I had a bad day at work; maybe I'm thinking about boobs; maybe I'm singing a song in my head and can't work out a lyric. Anyway, it's not about you, so leave your narcissism at home, and don't try to put it off on others.
Chris J from Centralia, IL on 09/20/2010 04:46 PM
Aaron, that needed to be said, any you hit it right on the head.
Dave from Kansas on 09/21/2010 02:29 PM
Perhaps, you are one of the very ones described above, along with the problem of narcissism, since you obviously have not a thought for anyone else on the trail.
Steve M from Festus MO on 09/22/2010 04:41 PM
People use the KATY trail for a variety of reasons, none of which are "wrong". This time of year, some folks want to go out for a quiet stroll and see the changing of seasons. Others go for a 10 mile bike ride to get some much needed exercise. Others use the trail as a training grounds for running or cycling events. Some just like to be able to ride their bikes or run without worrying about car traffic. At most times, the trail is plenty wide enough for everyone, but please don't take up the whole trail with a 20' dog leash, or run 4 abreast, or ride bikes 3 abreast at 8 mph unless you are keeping an eye out for those who don't want to use the trail in the same way that you do. Not everyone wants to stop and chat with you, and not everyone wants to be chatted to.
For those folks not acquainted with cycling etiquette - "On Your Left" means that there is someone approaching from behind on your left hand side and will be passing you very soon. If you hear "On Your Left", please keep to the right and hold your line to avoid a collision.
ChrisJ from Centralia, IL on 09/22/2010 11:25 PM
Dave, when you are driving your car, do you expect everyone to wave to you and honk when they pass? Although it's not a highway, on a bike trail the cyclist has responsibilities to know what is comming up behind, just like driving a car. If you put yourself in a position where you are "startled" everytime someone passes you, you are the dangerous one. I just spent Saturday on the KATY and met a lot of people. Many smiled and waved, some didn't acknowledge me, but it didn't occur to me that they were all narcissistic.
Just enjoy the trail without finding fault with everyone that doesn't behave the way you want them to.
Mark from MO on 09/23/2010 07:33 PM
Oh Chris! That question you asked is ridiculous. No one is driving cars on the trail, (atleast they are not supposed to,) so there is no comparing. But since you have, don't you have the responsibility to avoid hitting someone or something? Defensive driving. Duh. To insinuate that Dave is putting himself "in a position to be startled" and "the dangerous one," is ridiculous, as well. Get over yourself. Dave is making a valid point and he appears to be asking more people to ACT IN A SAFE MANNER, that's all. I don't think it is too much to ask. It's about caring for others and behaving in a safe manner and to think about others and not always, "ME, ME, ME." Is it too much to ask? Or are we too 'serious?'
Brad on 09/24/2010 12:38 AM
Just curious, but why don't more people ride the trail? It can't be because of rude people.
Man, if I only lived closer I would ride several times a week.
Darrell from Jeff City, Mo. on 09/24/2010 07:36 AM
Brad, those deemed "rude" are far in the minority. Fortunately, there are many more that are cordial and considerate than those that are not. Some of us do ride two or three times a week when possible and are not averse to a tip of head, wave of the hand, a hi, hello, good morning, ding of the bell, an "on the left", it's just not that taxing. Maybe I'm not a serious cyclist. For those that don't mess with all that, no problemo for me, it's their parade as they see it.
Maggie from Kansas on 09/24/2010 01:08 PM
Well, now that everyone has contibuted various opinions (which are like noses, everyone has one) I choose to be part of the solution and not the problem and will ride safely and be considerate and respectful to all and encourage others.
MLH from Overland Park, KS on 09/27/2010 02:11 PM
The problem with the original post is that it singles out one group. Inconsiderate and oblivious behavior is practiced by people doing all sorts of activities on the trail, not just lycra-clad cyclists. Even then, this is exceptional in my experience. The trail is wide and there is room for everybody.
Greg from Fenton on 09/29/2010 04:03 PM
Simply put...Everyone on the trail needs to "take responsibility" for themselves, and their actions. Just follow the rules that are listed on the boards at various stops along the way...All I have read from the replies above is how each of us in inconveniencing the other. Read and follow: [ RIGHT-OF-WAY. When approaching oncoming users, always move to the right of the trail. Always pass on the left side, and make your intentions known by announcing your approach. Bicyclists should yield to pedestrians. Everyone should yield to horseback riders. ]
Forrester on 09/29/2010 04:52 PM
And...Everyone on the trail needs to give others some grace too. If someone doesn't wave at you or perform exatly as you would like them too, don't get bent out of shape about it. Perhaps you're just not in their plan at the moment. They probably don't mean to harm the sensitive ego.
Hawkeye from O'Fallon on 09/30/2010 01:01 AM
This is simple....I am part Native American and when passing on the trail I use a call,"YAYAYAYAYA LALA." One can hear it from a mile away. I suggest everyone practice and use the call.
Jules from Lake Saint Louis on 09/30/2010 02:02 PM
I'm with Aaron. Except for the boobs part. I too wear spandex and ride fast. Get over it. I smile at other riders and greet them when possible. I usually try my best to voice my arrival "on your left" but some folks don't understand what that means. I once had an old guy snark at me as I rode past, this AFTER I practically screamed that I'm a coming and he was stopped at the side of the road WATCHING ME APPROACH. Dude must not have had his hearing aid in or his glasses cleaned. Mostly I notice that people startle violently and this sometimes results in them going down (seen it and yes, I stopped to lend aid). I always dread coming up on the groups who take up the entire trail but I tell myself that I was a beginner once too. "On your left" is standard biking etiquette. If you're going to use the Katy you should acquaint yourself with the rules or suffer the consequences.
Greg from Gardner, KS on 10/01/2010 09:23 PM
It doesn't bother me when people don't greet me. I don't see a lack of being friendly as being rude. It's just neutral. I wouldn't purposely ignore a person's greeting. But if I'm riding hard I might not realize they greeted me until a couple seconds after. I seldom initiate a greeting. Unless someone is stopped with mechanical trouble, then you'll always hear from me. The outgoingness of cyclists is directly related to the population density of cyclists. When I ride on an L.A. bike path, I'll probably see at least 50 cyclists on an hour ride. It's tedious to greet every one of them. When I was riding through Death Valley, I was really excited that I saw another cyclist. On a tour, I'm friendlier and want to say hi to people. When I'm out for a hard ride, I just want to ride. I don't think you should be bothered by that difference in my attitude.
It is the responsibility of all to share the trail. Part of this means allowing people to pass you safely. If you can't be passed without freaking out and swerving, you have a problem you need to work on. It's nice to call out "on your left" but it shouldn't cause problems if someone does not.
Children are unpredictable traffic hazards. I love taking my nephew riding but it was stressful when he was 5. Parents need to make a judgment call. If your kid can't ride their own bike safely with other people around, put them on a tagalong bike. Tagalong bikes are awesome! When my nephew was 8, I took him on a 33 mile ride on a tagalong and he didn't want to stop. I intentionally do not call out "on your left" when passing a group with young children. The children often look over their left shoulder and swerve into you. I don't blame kids for being traffic hazards. But I will blame their parents.
Civil War Reenactment
-  + it seems very exciting and i had a relative in the civil war and my question is how does one become a member of the reenactment
Discussion started 10/01/2010 04:24 PM by daniel leonard - 1 reply (last reply by anonymous at 10/01/2010 05:35 PM)daniel leonard from st.charles, mo on 10/01/2010 04:24 PM
it seems very exciting and i had a relative in the civil war and my question is how does one become a member of the reenactment
daniel leonard from st.charles, mo on 10/01/2010 04:24 PM
it seems very exciting and i had a relative in the civil war and my question is how does one become a member of the reenactment
Anonymous on 10/01/2010 05:35 PM
ride your bike as fast as you can while on the katy trail with your eyes closed and when you wake up you will be in the middle of a battlefield fully engaged in battle
Anonymous on 10/01/2010 05:35 PM
ride your bike as fast as you can while on the katy trail with your eyes closed and when you wake up you will be in the middle of a battlefield fully engaged in battle
Mokane Market (Mokane)--my visit on 9-16-10
-  + Food prices are good in the Mokane Market, but do expect to pay to purchase water. Gallon jugs are on a shelf in the front. They will not let you use a faucet to fill your bottle for free. The female ...
Discussion started 10/01/2010 04:40 PM by Ed - 0 repliesEd from Naples, FL on 10/01/2010 04:40 PM
Food prices are good in the Mokane Market, but do expect to pay to purchase water. Gallon jugs are on a shelf in the front. They will not let you use a faucet to fill your bottle for free. The female co-owner who filled my bottle with less than a quart of tap water charged me $0.90 for it. She was not cordial either. In fact, she was the only person I met during my trek across MO who was not helpful and cordial.
As a backpacker, I stopped quite a few places to get water on the trail. That was the only instance where I was charged for a little tap water. Obviously the store needs to make a profit to stay in business, but I thought the water charge was excessive. My hike on the Katy Trail was great. I met a lot of wonderful people. The Mokane Market was my only disappointment. I’d hike the Katy Trail again, but I’d skip the Mokane Market.
Ed from Naples, FL on 10/01/2010 04:40 PM
Food prices are good in the Mokane Market, but do expect to pay to purchase water. Gallon jugs are on a shelf in the front. They will not let you use a faucet to fill your bottle for free. The female co-owner who filled my bottle with less than a quart of tap water charged me $0.90 for it. She was not cordial either. In fact, she was the only person I met during my trek across MO who was not helpful and cordial.
As a backpacker, I stopped quite a few places to get water on the trail. That was the only instance where I was charged for a little tap water. Obviously the store needs to make a profit to stay in business, but I thought the water charge was excessive. My hike on the Katy Trail was great. I met a lot of wonderful people. The Mokane Market was my only disappointment. I’d hike the Katy Trail again, but I’d skip the Mokane Market.
Temporary Katy Trail closure west of Pilot Grove
-  + The Katy Trail will be closed west of Pilot Grove, from Harriston Station Rd. (mile marker 206.5) to Ewing Rd. (mile marker 209), for repairs to the Taylor Branch culvert. The trail is estimated to b...
Discussion started 09/29/2010 09:10 PM by Dawn Fredrickson, Katy Trail Coordinator - 1 reply (last reply by Trek at 09/30/2010 01:29 PM)Dawn Fredrickson, Katy Trail Coordinator on 09/29/2010 09:10 PM
The Katy Trail will be closed west of Pilot Grove, from Harriston Station Rd. (mile marker 206.5) to Ewing Rd. (mile marker 209), for repairs to the Taylor Branch culvert. The trail is estimated to be closed for a month, from Oct. 4 to Nov. 5. There are no safe detour options, so Katy users will need to avoid the area. Signs will be placed at Pilot Grove and Clifton City trailheads announcing the closed section. Signs and barricades will be placed at Harriston Station and Ewing roads to prevent users from accessing this section. For a status update, check our website: http://www.mostateparks.com/katytrail/index.html. Or, email me at dawn.fredrickson@dnr.mo.gov. Thanks.
Trek on 09/30/2010 01:29 PM
Good that maintenance is being done.....timing is bad though! That takes out a very good Fall ride between Sedalia and Boonville for the best month of the year. Is it an emergency repair??
It might help to post the closure at some of the other trailheads last month too. I'd hate to think I was going to ride to Sedalia from Rocheport and then get all the way to Pilot Grove before there was any indication that the trail was closed.
Found Men's Rx Glasses
-  + We found a pair of men's prescription glasses in a brown case today
(Wednesday, September 29, 2010), on the trail about mile marker 54, just
near Weldon Spring. They were on the ground along w...
Discussion started 09/29/2010 07:40 PM by Karen - 0 repliesKaren on 09/29/2010 07:40 PM
We found a pair of men's prescription glasses in a brown case today
(Wednesday, September 29, 2010), on the trail about mile marker 54, just
near Weldon Spring. They were on the ground along with a small ziploc of
ice. Please reply to khoelting@msn.com.
Kirkwood Amtrak to Katy Trail Directions
-  + Metro transit can be used to go from the Kirkwood AMTRAK station to Creve Couer. Take the
48 - South Lindbergh bus to the Ballas Transit Center and then 98 - Chesterfield Hanley
towards Hanle...
Discussion started 09/26/2010 09:26 AM by Dave F - 1 reply (last reply by Bikestuff at 09/29/2010 02:16 AM)Dave F from Ballwin, MO on 09/26/2010 09:26 AM
Metro transit can be used to go from the Kirkwood AMTRAK station to Creve Couer. Take the
48 - South Lindbergh bus to the Ballas Transit Center and then 98 - Chesterfield Hanley
towards Hanley Station. I think Marine and Dorsett is the best point to get off the bus and
then bike into Creve Couer Park. Follow directions for suggestion 1 using the Page Avenue
bridge. This eliminates having to bike on the busiest roads. You can also use Metrolink from
the downtown AMTRAK station to Hanley Station and take the 98 bus to Creve Couer. More
information is available at http://www.metrostlouis.org/
Bikestuff from Saint Charles, MO on 09/29/2010 02:16 AM
Great route.