MKT Railroad History Along the Katy Trail
- + I would like to see the Katy trail extended down to Appleton City, Missouri. I understand the MKT depot fully restored in town is one of the oldest in the state. I have hiked the entire route up to Cl...
Discussion started 06/25/2008 01:50 AM by Apple - 3 replies (last reply by robert at 06/27/2008 03:33 PM)Apple from AppletonCity, Missouri on 06/25/2008 01:50 AM
I would like to see the Katy trail extended down to Appleton City, Missouri. I understand the MKT depot fully restored in town is one of the oldest in the state. I have hiked the entire route up to Clinton and very beautiful scenery. What would have to be done to extend down to us. We have a lot of sites and history to offer, specifically with the restored depot, MKT caboose, oldest library in the state and a beautiful historical district and museum. Please someone let me know what it takes to get it down to us. I think Nevada, MO would be onboard for it continuing the trail to them as well.
Dale Nimmo from Springfield MO on 06/25/2008 11:14 AM
I don't have any pull other than just the voice of another 'common' citizen. That would be GREAT however, I know there's been talk of a trail connecting to bolivar somwhere, somehow which would then connect the Frisco Highline Trail that connects Springfield to Bolivar and THEN what a trail we'd have ! WOW.
thanks!!
Trek on 06/25/2008 11:26 AM
Maybe you all need to hook up with the Rails to Trails Conservancy. They are in the business of helping with rails to trails conversions.
http://www.railtrails.org/index.html
robert from columbia on 06/27/2008 03:33 PM
That would be great. I use the Katy trail for transportation to visit family in SW Missouri.
I currently ride the trails from Columbia to Clinton and then have to head south down 13
highway. The trail would be much more pleasant to say the least.
Columbia
- + How far is the ride via the Katy Trail from St. Charles to Columbia?
Thanks
Discussion started 06/26/2008 06:05 PM by Bud Floor - 1 reply (last reply by MAH at 06/26/2008 06:37 PM)Bud Floor from Kirkwood on 06/26/2008 06:05 PM
How far is the ride via the Katy Trail from St. Charles to Columbia?
Thanks
MAH from Blue Springs, MO on 06/26/2008 06:37 PM
From looking at the mileage charts, looks like it would be about 130 to McBaine, another 0.3-4 to Hindman Junction where the MKT spur then takes you into Columbia for another 8.9 miles. Looks like about 139.3 total.
Complaints
- + To all those quick to complain; Yes you have a right to complain. However, once you exercise that right you have an obligation to sing praises. If you do complain; be fair, be honest and speak well of...
Discussion started 06/26/2008 03:12 PM by Les - 2 replies (last reply by Les at 06/26/2008 04:37 PM)Les from Lawrence on 06/26/2008 03:12 PM
To all those quick to complain; Yes you have a right to complain. However, once you exercise that right you have an obligation to sing praises. If you do complain; be fair, be honest and speak well of the good as much as the bad because it is there too. If you can only find fault in your life, your opinion is of no value.
Trek on 06/26/2008 03:25 PM
Hhmmm.....someone been complain'n too much for ya Les???
Les from Lawrence on 06/26/2008 04:37 PM
Don't you know it! The complaints all seem to come from a few people that diss all kinds of businesses along the trail but find nothing to compliment; while the positive comments cover a variety of subjects. I've been to most of the places commented on and I always seem to think "Didn't this guy look around at all?"
N. Jefferson
- + A rep from the Missouri State Archives in Jeff City recently told me that they are planning a
bike path UNDER the bridge to hook up with the Katy. I haven't seen this anywhere else, so
keep y...
Discussion started 06/23/2008 07:30 PM by cunninghamair - 1 reply (last reply by RiverBill0708 at 06/26/2008 01:26 PM)cunninghamair from O'Fallon, MO on 06/23/2008 07:30 PM
A rep from the Missouri State Archives in Jeff City recently told me that they are planning a
bike path UNDER the bridge to hook up with the Katy. I haven't seen this anywhere else, so
keep your eyes peeled for more info!
RiverBill0708 from Jefferson City on 06/26/2008 01:26 PM
Yes, the local newspaper (www.newstribune.com) reported on the possible designs on May 18,2008. Hanging the pedrestrian/cyclist attachment under the roadway option has many benefits. However, it would need Coast Guard approval for river traffic clearance heights. So will that be the final design? Flip a coin, its a 50/50 chance.
Flooding along Katy
- + I am writing in regards to flooding along the Katy Trail. My wife and I are planning on biking the Katy next Wednesday through Friday. With the rise of the Missouri, is their the potential of floodin...
Discussion started 06/26/2008 09:09 AM by David Johnson - 1 reply (last reply by captain kirk at 06/26/2008 10:30 AM)David Johnson from Tulsa Oklahoma on 06/26/2008 09:09 AM
I am writing in regards to flooding along the Katy Trail. My wife and I are planning on biking the Katy next Wednesday through Friday. With the rise of the Missouri, is their the potential of flooding from Jefferson City to St. Charles next week?
captain kirk from Fayette, MO on 06/26/2008 10:30 AM
Yes there is a possibility for further flooding on the Katy Trail with the continued rain. My friends and I are planning on riding the trail 6/28 to 7/1. Here is the URL to track the river levels in Missouri:http://waterdata.usgs.gov/mo/nwis/current?type=flow&group_key=basin_cd&s. When the level in Boonville gets to be 24 - 25 ft then the trail between Hwy 40 and Rocheport (MM179 - 181.5)usually gets covered. There is an easy detour to bypass this using Hwy 40 and 240. It is still marked on the roadway from the Ride West that the DNR sponsored last week.
N. Jefferson
- + Okay, so the guy at the Best Value Inn is not the friendliest in the world. He came to pick me up in his big sedan, allowed me to place my bike in the shed. He's not much of a conversationalist, but...
Discussion started 05/08/2008 09:34 PM by Katy Trail Biker - 2 replies (last reply by Chuck at 06/24/2008 11:49 PM)Katy Trail Biker from Plano, TX on 05/08/2008 09:34 PM
Okay, so the guy at the Best Value Inn is not the friendliest in the world. He came to pick me up in his big sedan, allowed me to place my bike in the shed. He's not much of a conversationalist, but the hotel was clean, the pickup and drop off were efficient. Its possible he is not as interested in your bike ride as you are. Live and let live. I'd stay there again.
Anonymous from Plano on 05/10/2008 06:46 PM
Another Plano katy trail fan here. Will be riding from Clinton to st. Charles May 12. e-mail... cove148@yahoo.com
Chuck from Edwardsville on 06/24/2008 11:49 PM
Correct - This guy doesn't really care to talk to you, or anyone else for that matter. If you are particular about the appearance of you bike dont use the shuttle service because your bike will probably get a couple of scratches with the trailor set up they have. If you dont use the shuttle its about 4-5 miles mostly uphill to ride to the hotel. Hotel was clean and multiple eating establishments are within walking distance although you you will have to cross a major intersection to get to them.
Rendleman Home B&B (Bluffton)
- + Awesome place to stay on the trail! At the Rendleman You WILL get plenty of excellent food, a great accomodating host and interesting conversation. Doug is an avid cyclist himself and maybe thats why ...
Discussion started 06/24/2008 09:54 PM by Chuck - 0 repliesChuck from Edwardsville on 06/24/2008 09:54 PM
Awesome place to stay on the trail! At the Rendleman You WILL get plenty of excellent food, a great accomodating host and interesting conversation. Doug is an avid cyclist himself and maybe thats why he knows just what riders need after a long day on the trail. I willplan future rides to insure this is one of the stops!
Chuck from Edwardsville on 06/24/2008 09:54 PM
Awesome place to stay on the trail! At the Rendleman You WILL get plenty of excellent food, a great accomodating host and interesting conversation. Doug is an avid cyclist himself and maybe thats why he knows just what riders need after a long day on the trail. I willplan future rides to insure this is one of the stops!
Mexico On Main (St Charles)
- + since these comments have been added, this has turned into a hooka bar. top notch under the new ownership if you ask me, we used to go there every night after work
Discussion started 06/24/2008 08:26 PM by john doe - 0 repliesjohn doe from st. charles on 06/24/2008 08:26 PM
since these comments have been added, this has turned into a hooka bar. top notch under the new ownership if you ask me, we used to go there every night after work
john doe from st. charles on 06/24/2008 08:26 PM
since these comments have been added, this has turned into a hooka bar. top notch under the new ownership if you ask me, we used to go there every night after work
Rendleman Home B&B (Bluffton)
- + My son and I camped-out our last night of our hiking trip here at the Rendleman Home B&B, March 25th 2008. Doug Rendleman was the best host. He provides nice facilities (the shower house is great), ...
Discussion started 03/29/2008 11:19 AM by Wes Shannon - 3 replies (last reply by ka3751 at 06/24/2008 06:55 PM)Wes Shannon from Fort Worth, TX on 03/29/2008 11:19 AM
My son and I camped-out our last night of our hiking trip here at the Rendleman Home B&B, March 25th 2008. Doug Rendleman was the best host. He provides nice facilities (the shower house is great), camping in the woods behind his barn, bon fire with good conversation and pleasant refreshment, and shuddle service back to our car the next day.
Note: The best french toast I have ever had or will have was provided by Doug. Worth going just for the breakfast. We will be visiting again. Thanks Doug!
Wes Shannon from Fort Worth, TX on 03/29/2008 11:19 AM
My son and I camped-out our last night of our hiking trip here at the Rendleman Home B&B, March 25th 2008. Doug Rendleman was the best host. He provides nice facilities (the shower house is great), camping in the woods behind his barn, bon fire with good conversation and pleasant refreshment, and shuddle service back to our car the next day.
Note: The best french toast I have ever had or will have was provided by Doug. Worth going just for the breakfast. We will be visiting again. Thanks Doug!
Les from Lawrence on 06/12/2008 08:12 PM
Agree, we had a great stop. He cooked dinner and breakfast both for us. Was great
Les from Lawrence on 06/12/2008 08:12 PM
Agree, we had a great stop. He cooked dinner and breakfast both for us. Was great
sbikes from Kansas City on 06/15/2008 11:56 AM
I stayed at the Rendleman B & B a few years ago and found it to be a great experience. As I
was traveling on the cheap, it was difficult to find places to camp -- he let me camp in his
backyard, the outdoor shower was very welcome, and it was a delightful experience. Sharon
sbikes from Kansas City on 06/15/2008 11:56 AM
I stayed at the Rendleman B & B a few years ago and found it to be a great experience. As I
was traveling on the cheap, it was difficult to find places to camp -- he let me camp in his
backyard, the outdoor shower was very welcome, and it was a delightful experience. Sharon
ka3751 from saint louis on 06/24/2008 06:55 PM
I camped at the Rendleman B&B over Memorial Day and had a great time. Doug is an interesting guy. Lots of knowledge about the Katy Trail.
ka3751 from saint louis on 06/24/2008 06:55 PM
I camped at the Rendleman B&B over Memorial Day and had a great time. Doug is an interesting guy. Lots of knowledge about the Katy Trail.
2008 DNR Katy Trail Ride
- + I have to agree with all the comments.....Great ride and unbelievable support! The meals were great....but I would like to see at least scrambled eggs every morning. Looking forward to riding down h...
Discussion started 06/24/2008 03:38 AM by Don - 2 replies (last reply by Trek at 06/24/2008 04:28 PM)Don from San Diego, CA. on 06/24/2008 03:38 AM
I have to agree with all the comments.....Great ride and unbelievable support! The meals were great....but I would like to see at least scrambled eggs every morning. Looking forward to riding down hill next year.
Don
Jim from Kansas on 06/24/2008 03:39 PM
Don, don't be so picky! It was a GREAT ride and downhill with the wind to our backs will make next year even better. It was a lot of fun riding with you and Ken. Jerry and I are planning on riding again next year also. I'm putting together a Nashbar order....
Trek on 06/24/2008 04:28 PM
If you go to Nashbar through the link on this website, Ray will get a cut to help with keeping this site going for all of us. Of course ya don't have to, but its nice to help a brother out from time to time.
Doing the Katy Trail for the first time.
- + I will be riding the Katy trail for the first time in mid July with some buddies of mine. We have been doing RAGBRAI for many, many years, but we are looking to do different rides every year now. I wi...
Discussion started 06/24/2008 12:34 PM by Hawki08 - 0 repliesHawki08 from Marion, Iowa on 06/24/2008 12:34 PM
I will be riding the Katy trail for the first time in mid July with some buddies of mine. We have been doing RAGBRAI for many, many years, but we are looking to do different rides every year now. I will be taking off out of Olathe, KS where I live to meet up with the buddies in Booneville. Then we are going to ride to S. Louis and then back to KC.
We are looking for a week of good riding and fun times. If there is any sites we need to stop and see, please feel free to let us all know.
The right bike
- + OK, you MKT/Katy experts. Am I taking my life in my hands if I try to ride my Scott CR1 road bike with 700 x 23C tires on the MKT out of Columbia and then the Katy to Boonville? I rode part of the rou...
Discussion started 06/23/2008 01:11 PM by Mike U. - 3 replies (last reply by Mike U. at 06/24/2008 09:43 AM)Mike U. from Louisville, Ky. on 06/23/2008 01:11 PM
OK, you MKT/Katy experts. Am I taking my life in my hands if I try to ride my Scott CR1 road bike with 700 x 23C tires on the MKT out of Columbia and then the Katy to Boonville? I rode part of the route last year on a trail bike with wide tires and it worked great ... dusty but great. I may not be able to bring both bikes this year and will likely opt for the Scott because I will be riding it more in Colorado. I really enjoy using Missouri's trails but with those skinny tires ...
Trek on 06/23/2008 04:38 PM
There are ruts/cracks sometimes that can be a jolt. If you're good at avoiding obstacles perhaps you'd be okay. There certainly are those who ride their road bike on the Katy. For us, the Trek hybrids go out on the trails and the Santana longbike stays on the road where she's comfortable.
Anonymous from Boonville on 06/23/2008 05:32 PM
I ride several thousand miles a year on the Katy mostly on road bikes with 700-25 or 700-23 tires. In the winter freeze-thaw season wider tires become almost necessary although I usually move to the road instead. Just like on pavement the road bike tires roll easier. In real dry weather sometimes the trail cracks open especially on the Boone county MKT trail and on the Katy west of Boonville, but I have never had a problem related to my narrow tires.
Mike U. from Louisville, Ky. on 06/24/2008 09:43 AM
Thanks for your thoughts. I'll give the road bike a try, but may invest in a pair of Specialized Armadillo all condition road tires to lessen chances of flatting. They'll also work well on the sandpaper-like road surfaces along the Kansas-Colorado border the next day. Those roads tend to eat up the Vredestein Fortezza tricomps I normally ride here in Kentucky and Southern Indiana.
Augusta Winery (Augusta)
- + Great winery to visit. The lady behind the counter was very patient and extremely helpful with our tasting. She explained different things with the wines. Without a doubt you have to visit this winery...
Discussion started 06/23/2008 09:26 PM by Jim - 0 repliesJim from Washington Court House on 06/23/2008 09:26 PM
Great winery to visit. The lady behind the counter was very patient and extremely helpful with our tasting. She explained different things with the wines. Without a doubt you have to visit this winery if you visit any of them. It may be a little smaller than the others but I think that is what helps the charm. The Ice Wine is wonderful.
Jim from Washington Court House on 06/23/2008 09:26 PM
Great winery to visit. The lady behind the counter was very patient and extremely helpful with our tasting. She explained different things with the wines. Without a doubt you have to visit this winery if you visit any of them. It may be a little smaller than the others but I think that is what helps the charm. The Ice Wine is wonderful.
Lindenhof Bed & Breakfast (Augusta)
- + We stayed here on a Wednesday night a few weeks ago and had a great time. The owners really just let you relax and weren't around except at check in and when she made breakfast. I know if we needed an...
Discussion started 06/23/2008 09:17 PM by Jim - 0 repliesJim from Washington Court House on 06/23/2008 09:17 PM
We stayed here on a Wednesday night a few weeks ago and had a great time. The owners really just let you relax and weren't around except at check in and when she made breakfast. I know if we needed anything though they were just in the other part of the house. Breakfast was awesome, stuffed french toast with white chocolate, strawberries, and blueberries. She also made some type of egg creation with cream that I can't remember what it was called but very good. The setting is very quiet and relaxing and not too far off the trail. Would recommend if you are looking for a great B&B
Jim from Washington Court House on 06/23/2008 09:17 PM
We stayed here on a Wednesday night a few weeks ago and had a great time. The owners really just let you relax and weren't around except at check in and when she made breakfast. I know if we needed anything though they were just in the other part of the house. Breakfast was awesome, stuffed french toast with white chocolate, strawberries, and blueberries. She also made some type of egg creation with cream that I can't remember what it was called but very good. The setting is very quiet and relaxing and not too far off the trail. Would recommend if you are looking for a great B&B
Katy Bike Rental (Defiance)
- + This is a great place to rent bikes for a really great price. They have a lot to choose from and a variety of bikes and bike trailers for your little ones. Very nice people and helpful too. The own...
Discussion started 06/23/2008 03:46 PM by Julia - 0 repliesJulia from Foristell, MO on 06/23/2008 03:46 PM
This is a great place to rent bikes for a really great price. They have a lot to choose from and a variety of bikes and bike trailers for your little ones. Very nice people and helpful too. The owner's sister has a really cute little shop next door with unique gifts. We will definately be back! ;)
Julia from Foristell, MO on 06/23/2008 03:46 PM
This is a great place to rent bikes for a really great price. They have a lot to choose from and a variety of bikes and bike trailers for your little ones. Very nice people and helpful too. The owner's sister has a really cute little shop next door with unique gifts. We will definately be back! ;)
Globe Hotel (Hartsburg)
- + Stayed the week of May 11 08. I can not recomend the Globe unless you like to be over run by cats. There are three inside cats with a very stong cat smell thoughout the house. Add to that the seven...
Discussion started 06/01/2008 11:48 AM by Fred - 2 replies (last reply by Biker at 06/23/2008 12:01 PM)Fred from Georgetown SC on 06/01/2008 11:48 AM
Stayed the week of May 11 08. I can not recomend the Globe unless you like to be over run by cats. There are three inside cats with a very stong cat smell thoughout the house. Add to that the seven outside cats you have CAT CITY. The entire hotel is in either a state of disrepair or under repair. Next time on to North Jeff City.
Fred from Georgetown SC on 06/01/2008 11:48 AM
Stayed the week of May 11 08. I can not recomend the Globe unless you like to be over run by cats. There are three inside cats with a very stong cat smell thoughout the house. Add to that the seven outside cats you have CAT CITY. The entire hotel is in either a state of disrepair or under repair. Next time on to North Jeff City.
Deerslayer from Hermann on 06/05/2008 11:49 PM
This is from the same guy that dissed Deons Bar. I can understand having a bad experience and wanting to warn others, but when every post is negative then they all lose any meaning.
Deerslayer from Hermann on 06/05/2008 11:49 PM
This is from the same guy that dissed Deons Bar. I can understand having a bad experience and wanting to warn others, but when every post is negative then they all lose any meaning.
Biker from Farmington, MO on 06/23/2008 12:01 PM
Stayed at Jeanette's Globe Hotel last week, during the DNR Katy Trail Ride. I can kind of see how someone might be taken aback at first. The hotel's not in pristine condition, renovated to within an inch of its life like other B&Bs might be. But it was clean, the beds were comfortable, our rooms were well-air-conditioned, and the bathroom situation was just fine. She's got quite a nice library, breakfast was served when we needed it early in the morning, and she's a great conversationalist. So while I cnfess to a double-take in my initial impression, I'd have to say, our overall experience at the Globe Hotel was unbeatable. Jeanette's a Katy Trail treasure and I appreciate her keeping the Globe open as an option for accommodations along the way. We'll definitely return.
Biker from Farmington, MO on 06/23/2008 12:01 PM
Stayed at Jeanette's Globe Hotel last week, during the DNR Katy Trail Ride. I can kind of see how someone might be taken aback at first. The hotel's not in pristine condition, renovated to within an inch of its life like other B&Bs might be. But it was clean, the beds were comfortable, our rooms were well-air-conditioned, and the bathroom situation was just fine. She's got quite a nice library, breakfast was served when we needed it early in the morning, and she's a great conversationalist. So while I cnfess to a double-take in my initial impression, I'd have to say, our overall experience at the Globe Hotel was unbeatable. Jeanette's a Katy Trail treasure and I appreciate her keeping the Globe open as an option for accommodations along the way. We'll definitely return.
riding the whole trail?
- + is riding the whole trail a good idea? a few frineds and I are planning on riding the whole trail in about a week or less. is there anyone who can gives us tips or packing or camping ideas. are there ...
Discussion started 06/02/2008 05:35 PM by Josh - 5 replies (last reply by trinjboro at 06/23/2008 11:33 AM)Josh from Columbia on 06/02/2008 05:35 PM
is riding the whole trail a good idea? a few frineds and I are planning on riding the whole trail in about a week or less. is there anyone who can gives us tips or packing or camping ideas. are there any stops that are a must? how long would it take a beginner to ride the whole thing? are there any hazards that we should be aware of? what parts of the trail are the hardest?
Anonymous on 06/03/2008 04:19 PM
Just figure you will need 20 hours pedaling time to complete the trail if you average 11 miles per hour. Trail is flat. Plenty of places to stay. Go for it. No hazards to be concerned with. Travel as lightly as possible, you will hate the extra weight and stuff after the second day. I would stay in B&B's.
Biker from Farmington on 06/04/2008 12:50 PM
Biking the whole trail is an excellent idea. The key is in the planning: Accommodations, weather contingencies, etc. You can definitely do it all in a week. There's so much to see, lots of interesting terrain, architecture. Take a camera, if you can. In particular, it's great being able to spend a night in a special hotel or B&B. In Sedalia (Bothwell Hotel), Rocheport (any B&B), Boonville (B&Bs and hotels), August (B&Bs up the BIG hill) and St. Charles, especially. But, there are plenty of campsites, too.
jd from gkc on 06/05/2008 05:45 PM
Four to five days will allow you to enjoy the trail's outdoor nature and wildlife, scenic views, cafes, wineries, local folks, historical sites, other users etc. Some of the B&B's allow camping for a modest fee (study the various sections of this website beforehand if possible). You might want to see the remaining Indain pictograph above the Lewis-Clark bat cave at the 174.4-mile marker, 4-mi south of Rocheport. It's marked. Otherwise, stay near the trail, and do not approach the Missouri River to wade, fish, or wash your hands. Being from Columbia, you know this river has obvious turbulent currents with whirlpools and deep undertows; it's merciless, even to those wearing life-jackets. Still the entire trail is scenic and safe, depending on the user's point of view. Carry extra water on its eastern half. You almost have to do the trail once to know for sure how you want to ride it. Take a small camera. Have fun!
Paul from St. Clair on 06/23/2008 11:11 AM
If you are camping or looking for cheap places to stay, don't miss out on the Turner Shelter House in Tebbets. It only cost $5 to stay. There are bunk beds in there and hot showers. It's a nice break from sleeping outside. You will find the key on a telephone pole on the outside. Just make sure you clean up before you leave. You can make reservations ahead of time, but don't have to as long as it is not full, which I can't imagine it would be unless a huge group booked it.
trinjboro from Jonesboro, AR on 06/23/2008 11:33 AM
I concur with Paul's comments on the Turner Shelter. I've stayed there on several occasions and found it to be Spartan, but clean and neat. I promise you won't find a better bargain than $5.00 for a bunk and shower. It also has a tv and microwave. Places to eat are limited in Tebbetts, but the bar next door has decent pizza.
RT Weilers (St Charles)
- + The Manager is extremely rude. I was a loyal customer until a conversation recently with him. He is very demeaning and rather full of himself.
Discussion started 06/23/2008 08:32 AM by Mojo - 0 repliesMojo from St. Charles on 06/23/2008 08:32 AM
The Manager is extremely rude. I was a loyal customer until a conversation recently with him. He is very demeaning and rather full of himself.
Mojo from St. Charles on 06/23/2008 08:32 AM
The Manager is extremely rude. I was a loyal customer until a conversation recently with him. He is very demeaning and rather full of himself.
Elevations along the trail
- + I just finished three days from Clinton to Jeff City. I know it can't be right; but it seemed like it was uphill most of the way to Rocheport. The elevation map does not agree with me, but I wonder i...
Discussion started 06/08/2008 08:09 PM - 7 replies (last reply by jd at 06/22/2008 10:10 PM)Anonymous from Kansas City on 06/08/2008 08:09 PM
I just finished three days from Clinton to Jeff City. I know it can't be right; but it seemed like it was uphill most of the way to Rocheport. The elevation map does not agree with me, but I wonder if anyone has a map that shows the actual up and down of the trail; mile by mile? This was my first ride; I am old and out of shape; and the trail was kind of wet, so maybe that clouded my perception. I had a great time.
Grandpa Norm from Raymore, MO on 06/08/2008 09:00 PM
I'm an old guy too and have thought the same as you have, that the trail must be all uphill. If your map only had the elevations from town to town that doesn't give you the whole picture. However you can access right here on this website a graph of the elevation ups and downs for the entire trail. Just go back to the home page, click on "search", scroll down and google elevations and it will pop up. You will see you did actually have a little bit of downhill mixed with the climbs.
You may have also been affected to some extent by headwinds, they can make even a slight downhill seem just the opposite.
Good luck and stay with the trail, it gets better as you ride it more.
Ray (webmaster) on 06/09/2008 05:01 AM
Anonymous on 06/09/2008 09:48 AM
When the trail is wet the Clinton to Pilot Grove route is the softest point on the whole trail. Will flat grab your tires. Would travel light and use 32 tires as minimum.
DougK from Troy on 06/12/2008 06:25 AM
I felt the same way when I hiked it. I assumed it was optical illusions but still believe it's uphill
Biker from Farmington on 06/12/2008 04:56 PM
What?! Oh, man! Last year, I did the DNR ride from Clinton to St. Charles. You're telling me it's slightly uphill from St. Chas to Clinton? Hoo boy. I'm praying it doesn't rain all next week during this year's DNR ride. Thanks for the link.
Biker from Farmington, MO on 06/21/2008 12:33 PM
Me again. A word about the elevations graph. I copied this nice little monster for the DNR ride, and tried to use it to anticipate the terrain as we moved, steadily uphill, from St. Chas to Clinton. NOTE: The graph depicts general, overall, sea-level data, but does NOT depict actual terrain. Their were several rolling hills during what appeared to be "downhill" parts of the trail, chiefly in the Sedalia to Clinton area. It might LOOK like it's downhill all the way to Clinton, but it ain't. There are still a few uphills, so don't expect to kick back and coast into town. That said, it was still a useful graphic to keep around.
jd from gkc on 06/22/2008 10:10 PM
You're right. The elevations map is meant for elevations alone, not for terrain. Most of the rolling grades at the western end are about 1% I think.
Burf's Bar and Grill
- + Burf's Bar and Grill - (Owner's last name is Burford)
This is a friendly little place - Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays - Nice breakfasts, great
burgers. Unfortunately, they do allow smoking (I...
Discussion started 06/22/2008 09:34 PM by Beth - 0 repliesBeth from Sedalia on 06/22/2008 09:34 PM
Burf's Bar and Grill - (Owner's last name is Burford)
This is a friendly little place - Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays - Nice breakfasts, great
burgers. Unfortunately, they do allow smoking (It is a bar).
Beth from Sedalia on 06/22/2008 09:34 PM
Burf's Bar and Grill - (Owner's last name is Burford)
This is a friendly little place - Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays - Nice breakfasts, great
burgers. Unfortunately, they do allow smoking (It is a bar).
Wonderful city and people!
- + I am a first time rider of the Katy trail, from Mckitrick to Portland. Only 15 or so miles but it was a hot ride for us newbies. The trail was in great shape, and very hot. I advise taking lots of wat...
Discussion started 06/22/2008 04:48 PM by TSF - 0 repliesTSF from Shawnee,Kansas on 06/22/2008 04:48 PM
I am a first time rider of the Katy trail, from Mckitrick to Portland. Only 15 or so miles but it was a hot ride for us newbies. The trail was in great shape, and very hot. I advise taking lots of water, bug spray and tan lotion! If you stay in Hermann, I highly recommend the Heritage House B&B. Get a room with a jacuzzi too. The beds were comfy and cute. The breakfast was good and the hosts fantastic!!
lees summit
- + Once we board the Amtrak in Kirkwood, can we get off with bikes in Lee's Summit or do we have to get off in Sedalia or KC?
Discussion started 05/25/2008 09:31 PM by caleb - 2 replies (last reply by Paul Toigo at 06/22/2008 03:29 PM)caleb from lees summit on 05/25/2008 09:31 PM
Once we board the Amtrak in Kirkwood, can we get off with bikes in Lee's Summit or do we have to get off in Sedalia or KC?
cunninghamair from O'Fallon, MO on 06/20/2008 07:31 PM
Check Amtrak's website. We got on in Washington and got off in Jeff City. It stops at many
small towns along the way.
Paul Toigo on 06/22/2008 03:29 PM
I have gotten on and off Amtrak in Lee's Summit with my bike. To the best of my knowledge, you can do that on any stop on the StL/KC Mule or Ann Rutledge.