Katy Trail Forum

Probably OK for people who are just stopping through on the trail, but not good for people like us who just want to get away and bike some of the trail while hanging around Rocheport. This B&B lacks the "little things" that make these types of places so fun: a chance to get to know the hosts is a big one. The owners are never around, and this is a way to make guests feel welcome without adding any cost. The breakfast was fine, but it's the same thing every day so you're sick of it by Day 3. Worse, our place ran out of milk halfway through one day, so no chance to have cereal or put milk in the coffee. When the breakfast options are so modest, that's just inexcusable. And having to do your own dishes, I felt like we were doing KP at camp or something. Like I said, we were expecting more but I understand that to someone who just biked 30 miles on the Katy, the place probably is an oasis for the price. For us, it felt like the owners' hearts weren't really in it, and because of that you don't feel all that welcome. Wouldn't stay there again, maybe next time we'll try the Schoolhouse.

Maybe next time you stay at a b&b you can check the website, on the front page of katytrailbb.com they write " Innkeepers don't live on site --allowing guests solitude and privacy." the also mention they only have a continental breakfast. I hate being disappointed too, so I try to educate myself the best I can before taking a trip even if its a few miles down the road.

Yeah, we were aware the innkeepers weren't on the site, I guess we expected to meet them at some point, like around breakfast time. We actually really enjoy that. Plus, web sites don't tell you everything ... it says nothing about having to do your own dishes, we probably would've picked a different place had we known that.



I don't want to be too critical, because I think if it was a biker passing through they might like this place. But it's not an ideal getaway place and want to help others make their decision.

So, you will be billed if you leave dirty dishes??

Hey Trek; I think it was Will Rogers said it best "Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain; and most of 'em do." I sure don't understand the need some people have to put their two cents worth in as a negative all the time. If you're not happy, don't go back or take it to the owners, but no need to try to ruin life for others.

Give me a break, I post raves when I like a place as well, I'm not some nut posting negative reviews only. I'd say my review is realistic at least, but certainly not trying to ruin someone's life or anything. This site is supposed to be a guide for people and I think they should have a more complete view of what to expect than what the B&B's web site says (we read the owners' site and the experience was much different than advertised, and that's not all bad, but it is what it is). And if they pick it and like it, that's great. That's what guides are for.

Hi KatyTrail Riders, we are a new B & B along the Boonville Katy Trail next to the Boonville Bridge on High Street (just up from the Fredrick). I'd like to encourage you to give us a try. I don't want to use this forum to advertise, but i just wanted to make you aware we are here. Thats all. Check out our web site (be sure to read our guest book too).

Have a good ride!

I related to MUDoc. We experienced the same type of frustration when we stayed here 2 years ago - except for us it was good old TP that was missing in the bathroom. At that time, they had someone come in and make breakfast, which was good. But this really can't be compared with your typical B&B, or even your not-so-typical B&B (Rendleman, Globe Hotel) where the owner is on site and can make sure you have the necessities.



I would compare it more with staying at the Shelter/Hostel in Tebbetts, where you expect to have to hunt for TP if it has run out, and finding milk you can use in the frig is a bonus, because you aren't paying for it.



There's nothing wrong with posting your experience. If these things don't bother you, than this isn't going to be a deterent for staying. Personally, I like to know what to expect, and these types of postings help me make my trip plans.

Agreed....it helps us make educated decisions before spending hard earned dollars on something we didn't want.

My question got lost in the mix.....do you get billed if you leave dirty dishes? Or are they dirty when ya get there and you have to wash them or what?

I've stayed there before, and MUdoc is right on in his observations, really. -- But I chose it for those reasons. My three other friends and I appreciated the bare-bones experience, it was kind of like our version of camping (which is to say, climate controlled and nice-mattressed). We weren't in it for the normal B&B experience, because we didn't want to pay $80 more for glorified french toast and overstuffed decor. If you need a lot of interior decoration to enhance your "atmosphere" and experience, the other B&B's are probably more to your taste.

Hey Trek,

I don't think we would've been billed had we not done them, but they were posted in the "house rules" and there were multiple signs that tell you to be kind to the staff and do the dishes. I don't think it would've been the end of the world had we not done them, but I know some people like the fact this B&B is low cost and if everyone left them in the sink maybe they'd hire more staff and the price would go up. So we did it not to ruin it for others I guess, although who knows what would've happened had we left them in the sink because one day we were the only ones staying there.



I'm glad to see others relate to our experience. I didn't want to be harsh and I think the fact others agree shows it was a realistic review. I think another reviewer comparing it to something between a B&B and a hostel is pretty right on. If you're biking the Katy trail that should be adequate, but if this is for a romantic getaway with some light biking/walking on the trail, I'd highly recommend trying something else.

Perhaps the key to the joint is in it's name, Bed and Bikefest not Bed and Breakfast....a slick way to provide a bed and a place to park the bike without the routine B & B service.

Yeah you're probably right, Trek. But I think using the B&B image to sell a product conjures up something a little different than what it was. I think if they used a name like "inn" and advertised a continental breakfast, they would have no complaints and people would love the place. And in turn we would never have chosen this place and been happier altogether. Win-win for everyone, really.

Well I just have to chuckle. There's two phone numbers to call and if anyone needs anything, our B&B manager lives 10 steps away, and we live 4 blocks away. Just pick up the phone and call. Easy. The numbers are right there posted on the fridge and in other areas. It is a much better experience for everyone when we as innkeepers are given an opportunity to make something right while you are there, rather than facing years of torment about it in the blogosphere. Kim's story of the TP that went AWOL.... Some guest took it for their extended camping trip --- I guess that's why they lock it up at the state parks. We gave her a free night's stay. Ever since there's been 4 rolls in a basket right there in all three bathrooms. As for milk, well, people drink it. Some faster than others. We restock it like crazy, and we pride ourselves on keeping the fridge LOADED. We bend over backwards to make our guests comfortable, feed, and to keep the place fully stocked. We appreciate the suggestions on making it even better. Hope to see you guys in Rocheport this fall. Keep the comments & suggestions coming. Thanks.

I'm up for a chuckle too! Your B&B manager lives "10 steps away" ....and you have to call to get help? At reasonable voice levels, they should be able to hear a request for TP. Seems odd unless you're 20 feet tall with a 15 foot stride.

Trek, She lives across the street. Why are you smart assing me?

MUDoc, Thank for the ideas and feedback. We are down at the B&B a lot to greet guests and say hello. It is always a pleasure to connect w/ all of the like-minded and interesting people coming from all over the country to bike the trail. It's tricky sometimes to meet everyone b/c a lot of people arrive late (like tonight I was down there til 7 p.m. and no one had checked in yet), then they often hit the trail and shops early, etc. We have a lot of repeat couples and families and it is always fun to see the kids moving up from Burley cart to training wheels and beyond...

Geeezzzz Brett.....my comment was no more "smart assing" to you than yours was to general population here when you said "our B&B manager lives 10 steps away." If that is true, which I was trying to find out, then you have my most sincere and humble appologies. Honesty is the best policy...and its good to live by your words in a previous post...."No worries! We're all friends here. All of the feedback is really great."

Fair enough Trek, My apologies. These forums are hard to "read" sometimes. So in fairness to answer your question, she lives right across the street. She has no front yard, and she's literally in the street in 2 steps. So I didn't really think it was a stretch to say 10 steps. But technically, yes, it might be more like 15 or 20, max. The point I was trying to make, and should emphasize, is that we're offering the best of both worlds -- an unhosted B&B that also has numerous people "on call" to answer any questions, or to help out in any way with anything. And the price reflects that. Town is tiny, and between myself, my wife and the innkeeper, we're always around. This offers our guests the flexibility to check in at their convenience, which is a real plus. Also, you can eat breakfast whenever you want, and check out at your leisure. We have 2 kids, ages 5 and 2. It would be a stretch to do it any other way (especially since we have to get Everett up and on the bus by 6:50 a.m.). Anyway... the vast majority of our guests LOVE our place and the way it is set up. We have a very high rate of return visitors. It is what it is, and the website projects that very clearly on every page. We have books of rave reviews by many guests at our place. For those on the forum that prefer the high end B&B experience, by all means, pay for it at one of the other B&Bs. That's not the niche we're in. We are into offering an affordable, clean, cozy place for couples, families and cyclists to enjoy Rocheport. A home away from home. Remember, this is Rocheport. One of the top ten coolest small towns in the US according to Frommer's Magazine. The town is small, scenic, historic and funky. Everywhere you stay there has character.

Regarding the dishes, no you don't have to wash the dishes. We have paper plates and bowls even. The note by the sink is for our guests who use the fully stocked kitchen to make elaborate meals during family reunion weekends, etc. That's more what the note was addressing there. That little note isn't really targeted for the bowl and spoon crowd.

I'm shopping for a new ride, and I'm looking for something that's good for some street riding, but also the Katy (of course) and some light singletrack. Considering a Trek, but I wanted get some of your opinions. Make and models? I think I've set my budget at about $600.

Thanks for your input!

I rode the entire trail in late July on my Kona Smoke. It did great! I have ridden some light trails and occasionally ride it to work. I'm getting ready to sell it to buy a nicer road bike. Let me know if you interested as I will be in St. Louis next week. It has a rear rack and computer. Asking $250

Trek Hybrid. Get the best you can afford. If $600 is budget I would look for a higher end used bike. model 7200 on up..

I personally don't think the brands make much of a difference. As long as you stay away from department store bikes, Trek, Specialized, Cannondale, Giant and so on are all good quality. I bought my bike from an internet retailer, ibexbikes.com but they are risky since you can't test ride before you buy, you just have to know your size.

Sometimes its prudent to shop the brand that the local bike store has. If you're not a bike geek it can be easier to have the dealer take care of your bike for you. Service can be an issue when you take an off model to the local shop.

You're right trek, if I bend a derailer hanger on my Ibex, the only place I can get it is from the website I bought the bike, a local shop would not have it in stock. But my main point is I don't think someone should get hooked on any one brand, shop around, compare components, and get a good deal.

Try the cycle Depot in Jefferson City, 573-636-9599. They build from scratch and also sell Raleigh Bikes in your price range. They are one of the few shops that can repair bikes in mid-Missouri. Besides you can't beat Pam and Mark Allchorn. They are great people.

$600 will definitely get you in the game in a new bike. I agree with Trek tho. You can get a heck of a used bike for that amount. If you are only going to have one bike for all around riding, I'd go with a cross bike. You could even tour on it. A good source is Recycled Cycles in University City. He deals in high end used and last years model new bikes. Trek is also right on with going thru a dealer if you are not good at your own repairs. The right shop will save you money and a LOT of agravation down the line. If they are good, YOU don't have a problem, THEY do and they take care of it. Plus you benefit from their combined experience and the feedback they receive from other customers.

After just spending the better part of two weeks looking at bikes....find a good bike shop and test ride before you buy. I have a Trek Mtn. bike I use some for off road but wanted a hybrid. Ordered a 2009 Trek 7000 which came in 4 days ago and found it was just not what I was looking for. Ended up buying a Trek 7500 yesterday that is JUST what I was looking for so will have to try to get rid of my 7000. Too bad you weren't closer.... I let you have it for $200.00 if it would work for you. (smile) Good luck...as someone else said... $600.00 should get you a nice bike that will do fine on the Katy Trail.

Planning a ride on 9/13 from Page Bridge to Agusta at 2pm. Will Tour of Missouri restrict access to this section of the Katy at this time?

The Tour of Missouri is a road race. There are places where you could see the race from the Katy Trail west of Augusta but that is the closest it gets to the trail. There are places where the roads will be closed for a short period during the stage but not the Trail.

How much does it cost just to rent a canoe for the trip on Sept. 29 for the Mo River cleanup afterwards?



allenkelaine@peoplepc.com

How much does it cost just to rent a canoe for the trip on Sept. 29 for the Mo River cleanup afterwards?



allenkelaine@peoplepc.com

Check the link on this site (under Rocheport) for the Mighty Mo Canoe Rentals website and it has availability and prices.



However, beware. We scheduled a trip with them on Memorial Weekend, and they cancelled. Have seen other people comment on this site that they scheduled trips that were either cancelled or rescheduled, even if you reserve with them, you might not get your trip.

Check the link on this site (under Rocheport) for the Mighty Mo Canoe Rentals website and it has availability and prices.



However, beware. We scheduled a trip with them on Memorial Weekend, and they cancelled. Have seen other people comment on this site that they scheduled trips that were either cancelled or rescheduled, even if you reserve with them, you might not get your trip.

Kim, As I mentioned in another post, the river can fluctuate 10 feet in 2 days. Our top three priorities are safety, safety, safety. We hate to cancel floats b/c I know it leaves some people bummed out, but oftentimes we don't know the river level forecast until 48 hours beforehand. Several weeks back it was gorgeous weather here, but it had hammered some north country and brought the river way up. That is the most frustrating part. It is definitely a recreational sport that is at the mercy of the river. But we definitely have more "on" days than "off."

Kim, As I mentioned in another post, the river can fluctuate 10 feet in 2 days. Our top three priorities are safety, safety, safety. We hate to cancel floats b/c I know it leaves some people bummed out, but oftentimes we don't know the river level forecast until 48 hours beforehand. Several weeks back it was gorgeous weather here, but it had hammered some north country and brought the river way up. That is the most frustrating part. It is definitely a recreational sport that is at the mercy of the river. But we definitely have more "on" days than "off."

Beware: This is not a bed and breakfast anymore. Hence "Bikefest." I didn't read closely enough when I made my internet reservation, and got snookered into thinking the service was the same as when I stayed there one night two summers ago and enjoyed a full home-cooked breakfast in the morning. Anymore, somebody comes by to boil up a pot of coffee. Beyond that, it's continental fare. Too bad they cut back and resorted to trickery -- it's such a quaint little place.

Beware: This is not a bed and breakfast anymore. Hence "Bikefest." I didn't read closely enough when I made my internet reservation, and got snookered into thinking the service was the same as when I stayed there one night two summers ago and enjoyed a full home-cooked breakfast in the morning. Anymore, somebody comes by to boil up a pot of coffee. Beyond that, it's continental fare. Too bad they cut back and resorted to trickery -- it's such a quaint little place.

"Continental breakfast provided. Items include yogurt, bagels, muffins, scones, fruit, juices, coffee, cereal and breakfast bars." On their "Rates & Such" page, under "rules." -- Although I'll admit, I'm not jazzed about how they process your credit card for the full stay at the time of reservation (and they require at least 2 wks' cancellation notice, or you're out the whole wad). But I can see how they might have gotten burned in the past without this policy, so they've had to implement it. Not sure a continental breakfast qualifies as "trickery," but I can see how you felt had.

"Continental breakfast provided. Items include yogurt, bagels, muffins, scones, fruit, juices, coffee, cereal and breakfast bars." On their "Rates & Such" page, under "rules." -- Although I'll admit, I'm not jazzed about how they process your credit card for the full stay at the time of reservation (and they require at least 2 wks' cancellation notice, or you're out the whole wad). But I can see how they might have gotten burned in the past without this policy, so they've had to implement it. Not sure a continental breakfast qualifies as "trickery," but I can see how you felt had.

Our hearty continental breakfast includes yogurt, bagels, muffins, scones, fruit, juices, coffee, cereal and breakfast bars. It has brought kudos from many of our guests who prefer a flexible eating schedule. We made this change two years ago in response to our cyclist guests who were requesting an easy, early, hearty get-going breakfast. Our website states implicitly at least once on every page in scrolling text the following "Our hearty continental breakfast offers plenty of pedal power for your Katy Trail adventure." It even states that twice on our homepage. In addition, on our rates page it states "Continental breakfast provided. Items include yogurt, bagels, muffins, scones, fruit, juices, coffee, cereal and breakfast bars." Our chef Gregory, who married and moved away several years ago, will always be missed! I think he is probably keeping busy making breakfast for his four young girls.

Our hearty continental breakfast includes yogurt, bagels, muffins, scones, fruit, juices, coffee, cereal and breakfast bars. It has brought kudos from many of our guests who prefer a flexible eating schedule. We made this change two years ago in response to our cyclist guests who were requesting an easy, early, hearty get-going breakfast. Our website states implicitly at least once on every page in scrolling text the following "Our hearty continental breakfast offers plenty of pedal power for your Katy Trail adventure." It even states that twice on our homepage. In addition, on our rates page it states "Continental breakfast provided. Items include yogurt, bagels, muffins, scones, fruit, juices, coffee, cereal and breakfast bars." Our chef Gregory, who married and moved away several years ago, will always be missed! I think he is probably keeping busy making breakfast for his four young girls.

Hi Biker. Thanks for your thoughts. Our payment policies are pretty standard. You book a flight, they charge your card. You buy gas, they charge your card. You buy groceries, they charge your card. B&Bs are the same way. We do this because in the past, some guests would "reserve" entire blocks of rooms for whole weekends while they were trying to arrange family, friends, etc., and would cancel them or most of them at the last minute once they finalized (or canceled) their plans. That leaves any B&B in a bad spot. (Our canoe floats are the same way). Sorry if it rubbed you the wrong way. We're always looking for ways to improve the process and we're always open to new ideas and suggestions. Thanks for letting us know. Hope to see you back in Rocheport to see the fall leaves!

Hi Biker. Thanks for your thoughts. Our payment policies are pretty standard. You book a flight, they charge your card. You buy gas, they charge your card. You buy groceries, they charge your card. B&Bs are the same way. We do this because in the past, some guests would "reserve" entire blocks of rooms for whole weekends while they were trying to arrange family, friends, etc., and would cancel them or most of them at the last minute once they finalized (or canceled) their plans. That leaves any B&B in a bad spot. (Our canoe floats are the same way). Sorry if it rubbed you the wrong way. We're always looking for ways to improve the process and we're always open to new ideas and suggestions. Thanks for letting us know. Hope to see you back in Rocheport to see the fall leaves!

A two weeks in advance cancellation policy is pretty much the norm and still doesn't really cover the owners as most people have made their reservations by then so the owners can't just call customers back and say "The rooms are now available." The owners turned down guests to hold the room. That is why you pay in advance. So that the rooms are yours unless YOU change plans. Most of the B&Bs along the way are people that hold down full time jobs and then put themselves out even more while trying to make YOUR trip comfortable.

A two weeks in advance cancellation policy is pretty much the norm and still doesn't really cover the owners as most people have made their reservations by then so the owners can't just call customers back and say "The rooms are now available." The owners turned down guests to hold the room. That is why you pay in advance. So that the rooms are yours unless YOU change plans. Most of the B&Bs along the way are people that hold down full time jobs and then put themselves out even more while trying to make YOUR trip comfortable.

I can understand why they charge in advance. Again, I'm not keen on it, but now that I know what to expect, I'm OK with it. I've stayed in many B&Bs before where they don't charge your card for the complete total a month in advance of your stay (just a deposit, maybe). I was under the mistaken impression I was reserving a room, not paying for the room, because "credit cards are processed at time of reservation" meant, to me, that you had to use a credit card to reserve. Maybe "charged" might have clarified it. It was a simple misunderstanding, and a shock when my card was billed $350 right away. I hope to stay there again (if they'll have me, after all this), but I can see how others might miss all the fine print in their excitement to book rooms for their trip. Just an FYI. Please don't shoot me.

I can understand why they charge in advance. Again, I'm not keen on it, but now that I know what to expect, I'm OK with it. I've stayed in many B&Bs before where they don't charge your card for the complete total a month in advance of your stay (just a deposit, maybe). I was under the mistaken impression I was reserving a room, not paying for the room, because "credit cards are processed at time of reservation" meant, to me, that you had to use a credit card to reserve. Maybe "charged" might have clarified it. It was a simple misunderstanding, and a shock when my card was billed $350 right away. I hope to stay there again (if they'll have me, after all this), but I can see how others might miss all the fine print in their excitement to book rooms for their trip. Just an FYI. Please don't shoot me.

I can also understand why they charge in advance. However, the only B&B that I have ever stayed in along the Katy Trail did not ask me for an advance credit card or check of any kind.



Another one that I contacted wanted an advance check, but would keep ½ the room rate if I cancelled. In addition, in this latter case, if they rebooked the room, I would not be charged for anything.



I would advise that people reading the above not assume that these generalizations on the cancellation policy apply to every B&B along the Katy. Not to mention the fact that hotel options that are available along the Katy generally have a much less stringent cancellation policies for their guests than what is discussed above. So, I would advise that people shop around and contact hotels and B&B’s directly before booking a room if the cancellation policy is a concern.

I can also understand why they charge in advance. However, the only B&B that I have ever stayed in along the Katy Trail did not ask me for an advance credit card or check of any kind.



Another one that I contacted wanted an advance check, but would keep ½ the room rate if I cancelled. In addition, in this latter case, if they rebooked the room, I would not be charged for anything.



I would advise that people reading the above not assume that these generalizations on the cancellation policy apply to every B&B along the Katy. Not to mention the fact that hotel options that are available along the Katy generally have a much less stringent cancellation policies for their guests than what is discussed above. So, I would advise that people shop around and contact hotels and B&B’s directly before booking a room if the cancellation policy is a concern.

Biker in Farmington, No worries! We're all friends here. All of the feedback is really great. I'm excited to mention that we are working on reconstructing an 1880s two-story log cabin at our B&B which should break ground in October. It has a double porch on the front -- should be a real nice place to kick back and watch the bikers go by...

Biker in Farmington, No worries! We're all friends here. All of the feedback is really great. I'm excited to mention that we are working on reconstructing an 1880s two-story log cabin at our B&B which should break ground in October. It has a double porch on the front -- should be a real nice place to kick back and watch the bikers go by...

This is a good, little place and perfect for through-riders. I have stayed there a few times. Its not as fancy as the others, nor is it as expensive. We have had to call them for supplies and someone always came right over. We landed there once after a 60+ mile day and found everything we needed including a laundry we could use for our soaking wet and dirty gear. One time we came we shared the house with another couple were not not very considerate of us. Our room was next to the dining area and they did not even try to be quiet at 6am.



A couple of other quick remarks. They are very forthcoming on their website of what to expect. Please take time to read about the places you are staying in detail so you don't get surprised.



Also, think it is tacky of the Boonville B&B to promote themselves on this comment page - sheesh.

Claire,

I am sure the owners of Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest would rather take a Missouri River canoe trip or publish a series of books than to ever be so tacky as to use the comment forum to promote any businesses that they may own.

;-)

Sorry, I couldn't resist.

Claire, Thanks for your thoughts. We really strive to make the B&B a comfortable home away from home. A lot of our guests comment on how cozy and inviting our place is. I'm glad you felt the same way and enjoyed your stay. Hope to see you in Rocheport this fall!

Brett - Have to set the record straight. We did try calling the numbers posted in the kitchen (in search of the elusive TP) but never got a response. Message was left. You offered a free nights stay or free canoe trip. We opted for the canoe trip while on a short camping/biking trip Memorial Weekend of 2007. You (or someone at Mighty MO) called my cell the day before the trip and cancelled the trip. We have never been able to use that free stay/trip.

I imagine it can be quite challenging running a place like this - and I don't want my "missing TP" experience to keep people from riding the trail. I posted the original post when posting general experiences from riding the whole trail. I want to re-state - it's good to know others experiences when planning a ride. I take it all into account when planning. I see good & not so good experiences posted for almost every place that you can stay at, eat at, etc. along the trail. And what is a "great stay" for one person, may not be the same for someone else. And by the way, the Hot Tub at Katy B&B is a great addition for the price - and helped make up for the missing TP. Look at all the places along the trail and see how many you can stay at for the price that have a hot tub. Nothing feels quite so good after a long day on the trail!

Hi Kim, Great to hear from you. Yep we have had to cancel numerous floats due to the fluctuating river levels. I know it is frustrating for our guests and for ourselves as well. The river is real low now and we should have two great months ahead of us for floats in Sept & October. Lots of sandbars, and watching the leaves change and the eagles return...