Trail current conditions!
- + Hi! I'm hoping to ride the Katy Trail from Machens to Clinton, starting on Friday, July 2nd--the plan is to go slow, six to seven days. I'm keeping an eye on the current trail conditions, but I'm gett...
Discussion started 06/28/2021 10:45 AM by Bicho - 6 replies (last reply by Gary at 06/29/2021 09:43 PM)Bicho from Chicago on 06/28/2021 10:45 AM
Hi! I'm hoping to ride the Katy Trail from Machens to Clinton, starting on Friday, July 2nd--the plan is to go slow, six to seven days. I'm keeping an eye on the current trail conditions, but I'm getting a lot of mixed information.
I know that there has been a lot of rain, that there is some damage to part of the trail, flooding, mudslides, erosion, downed trees. Some folks are saying that the trail is un-ride-able and that it'd take months before it's usable again. Other folks are saying that while there is some damage the worst has passed and crews are already working to fix the issues and the trail is as ride-able as ever.
Is there a place to get accurate information about the trail conditions? Would you recommend I reschedule my trip given the current circumstances?
MapMedic from KCMO on 06/28/2021 01:33 PM
I have seen some of the same information you have. I believe that some of the people who have said it was fine are telling the truth, HOWEVER the situation has changed since they rode it on Friday or even possibly Saturday. I believe the State of Missouri has to have a little time to react/respond to these reports and that does take a little time, plus these things developed over the weekend. More information will be forthcoming from them. I am including a link to a website similar to this one that has a link to an official Missouri parks closure page. One thing I can tell you is that one of the posters in the Facebook group Fans of the Katy Trail is actually a Missouri official posting in an unofficial capacity (I don't want to identify them as they wish to help in a humble capacity, but they are definitely credible) In the last week I booked my entire trip across the state with four nights lodging between Kansas and Illinois plus Amtrak. My trip is in September and I am concerned that the river will do enough damage to effect my trip in September. So, if your trip is within the next week,you may have a very long detour between Boonville and Hartsburg. Good luck.
MapMedic from KCMO on 06/28/2021 01:34 PM
Crap! I forgot the link. Here it is
https://katytrailmo.com/katy-trail-conditions-summer-2021/
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/28/2021 06:50 PM
The Katy Trail is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.
John on 06/29/2021 11:21 AM
Bicho,
I'm on the Katy right now and was heading west, but I have turned around in Marthasville because a woman who works in a winery in Augusta tracked me down in her car at the Marthasville Comunity Center and warned me about the wash-outs ahead.
Mapmedic from KCMO on 06/29/2021 08:03 PM
Some guys have all the luck! Lol
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/29/2021 09:43 PM
There is a section of trail that has some washouts due to flashing flooding but I think she might have overreacted. You can probably walk through these washouts, you just need to be aware that you may encounter one and not hit them going 20 mph.
Shuttle into Washington
- + Has anyone used a hotel shuttle service from the Dutzow trailhead into Washington?
Discussion started 06/25/2021 04:19 PM by Outandback - 1 reply (last reply by John at 06/29/2021 11:23 AM)Outandback from Overland Park,KS on 06/25/2021 04:19 PM
Has anyone used a hotel shuttle service from the Dutzow trailhead into Washington?
John on 06/29/2021 11:23 AM
No, but I pedaled it just today. Everybody had warned me about Route 47 being dangerous, but it has a six foot shoulder and I didn't see any problems. I ate a late breakfast at Rothschild's on east fifth in Washington. Get the French toast with powdered sugar.
Is the trail flooded
- + How do I find out of the trail of closed due to flooding in the Defiance area? MU daughter came in town last spring, arrived at the trail, and then we found out it was flooded. Any help would be appre...
Discussion started 06/29/2021 07:57 AM by Cathy - 3 replies (last reply by Gary at 06/29/2021 09:45 AM)Cathy from OFallon on 06/29/2021 07:57 AM
How do I find out of the trail of closed due to flooding in the Defiance area? MU daughter came in town last spring, arrived at the trail, and then we found out it was flooded. Any help would be appreciated.
steve from saint louis on 06/29/2021 09:06 AM
DNR maintains a Trail Advisory Map online. However, in your case, best to follow this link....https://mostateparks.com/page/58843/potential-flood-locations , which shows that the Weldon Springs area begins flooding when the St. Charles Guage is at 31 feet. That page also provides a link to the river level data at the St. Charles Guage, showing a current crest at 29 feet, so it should be open now. However, would not take much more rain to push that above 31 feet.
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/29/2021 09:40 AM
Go to this sites home page
Scroll down until you see “Trail Conditions”
Click on the link
Look at map, expand map, look at markers for conditions
Easy Peasy
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/29/2021 09:45 AM
Oooops
Maybe not so Easy Peasy
Be sure to scroll below the trail user conditions to the state parks trail conditions link if you want the map.
Amtrak
- + Can someone describe where/how bikes are stored on the River Runner train? Are my pannier bags susceptible to tampering/theft if left on the bike? For those who have been on Amtrak, but not this parti...
Discussion started 06/24/2021 08:06 PM by Eric - 3 replies (last reply by Mapmedic at 06/28/2021 10:07 PM)Eric from KCMO on 06/24/2021 08:06 PM
Can someone describe where/how bikes are stored on the River Runner train? Are my pannier bags susceptible to tampering/theft if left on the bike? For those who have been on Amtrak, but not this particular route, there is not a baggage car, thus my question. TY
Mark from Lee's Summit on 06/24/2021 10:32 PM
There is a train car with about 3 rows of seats missing on one side of the aisle. It is just an open area and each person leans their bike against the wall of the train and/or the next person's bike. This open area often also becomes a place where huge rolling suitcases end up being placed. There is lots of space available overhead as long as people have reasonably sized luggage and bags. I ended up carrying my panniers onto the train separately from my bike and stored them overhead. The train stairs are narrow and steep, so in my opinion it was best to get my bike carried onto the train quickly and then come back down the stairs for my panniers and backpack. If there are 4 bikes on the train plus a couple of large rolling suitcases, this area gets tight really quick.
Karen C. from Harrisburg, MO on 06/25/2021 04:45 PM
Eric, thank you for the question, and Mark, thank you for the answer! A couple friends and I were recently talking about taking the train somewhere with our bikes and this helps!
Mapmedic from KCMO on 06/28/2021 10:07 PM
Thanks Mark
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Amtrak
https://bikekatytrail.com/talk.aspx?tid=12841&tonly=1
- + Hey just wondering how much it cost to get to Clinton trailhead
Discussion started 06/26/2021 05:25 PM - 1 reply (last reply by Bill in Houston at 06/28/2021 11:55 AM)Anonymous on 06/26/2021 05:25 PM
Hey just wondering how much it cost to get to Clinton trailhead
Bill in Houston from Houston on 06/28/2021 11:55 AM
From where?
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Union
- + Your map shows the trail running from Union to Villa Ridge. You do realize this is an active rail line-not a trail-from Union into St Louis don't you? And said rail line regularly used by Union's bigg...
Discussion started 06/26/2021 01:49 AM - 1 reply (last reply by Ray (webmaster) at 06/28/2021 06:31 AM)Anonymous on 06/26/2021 01:49 AM
Your map shows the trail running from Union to Villa Ridge. You do realize this is an active rail line-not a trail-from Union into St Louis don't you? And said rail line regularly used by Union's biggest employers?
Ray (webmaster) on 06/28/2021 06:31 AM
No actually I did not realize that - thanks for pointing that out!
I have adjusted the Rock Island Trail maps - both the one at the top of the web pages and the interactive map - to account for this.
I also took this opportunity to add the new section of trail in Jackson County to the maps: from north of Lee's Summit to the Truman Sports Complex, which officially opens 7/10/2021.
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Union
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Shuttle Service from Independence?
- + Looking to shuttle my bike from the Independence or Kansas City Amtrak station to the Rock Island Trailhead in Pleasant Hill. Anyone know of someone who provides this service?
Discussion started 06/02/2021 03:34 PM - 1 reply (last reply by EB at 06/27/2021 09:26 AM)Anonymous on 06/02/2021 03:34 PM
Looking to shuttle my bike from the Independence or Kansas City Amtrak station to the Rock Island Trailhead in Pleasant Hill. Anyone know of someone who provides this service?
EB from Greenwood on 06/27/2021 09:26 AM
When do you need a shuttle?
- + I am a runner, not a biker. In May I ran the length of the Katy Trail from Clinton to Machens. My wife was my "SAG" and we both had a great time doing this. For next spring I have planned to run th...
Discussion started 09/13/2020 09:09 AM by Bill Smith - 3 replies (last reply by Ray (webmaster) at 06/27/2021 07:08 AM)Bill Smith from Liberty, MO on 09/13/2020 09:09 AM
I am a runner, not a biker. In May I ran the length of the Katy Trail from Clinton to Machens. My wife was my "SAG" and we both had a great time doing this. For next spring I have planned to run the Rock Island from the Stadium to Windsor. According to my research there is trail from the stadium to Lee's Summit, and again from Pleasant Hill to Windsor. I worked out a very reasonable road course from Lee's Summit to Pleasant Hill, so I thought all was planned OK. Recently a friend told me he got on the trail at the stadium and it only lasted for about three miles, so I am looking for some factual imput from one of you that really knows the status of the trail at the stadium end, please.
Thank you
KBLS from Lee's Summit on 02/11/2021 08:40 AM
It appears you have not had any responses. The trail (should) open this spring. There is still a lot of work that needs to be completed. It will be VERY nice once completed though.
Chuck from Sc on 06/13/2021 11:29 AM
Any news on the status of trail from Arrowhead Stadium? Wanting to ride from here to Pleasant hill.
Ray (webmaster) on 06/27/2021 07:08 AM
The official grand opening of the Arrowhead-to-Brickyard section is scheduled for July 10 2021; see the Jackson County Rock Island Corridor facebook page for details:
https://www.facebook.com/KCRRC
This will allow you to travel from Truman Sports Complex to Jefferson Road in Lee's Summit. Unfortunately there is still a gap between Lee's Summit and Pleasant Hill which will not be filled any time soon. You'll need to find on-road options for that gap.
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Question for the LOCALS ONLY!
- +
Discussion started 06/26/2021 02:40 PM by Bicho - 0 repliesBicho from Chicago on 06/26/2021 02:40 PM
Rocheport Tunnel in Rocheport
- + What is closest spot you can park to walk to the tunnel & approx mileage? My mom would like to see but has trouble walking.
Discussion started 06/26/2021 01:52 PM by Tracy - 1 reply (last reply by Jim at 06/26/2021 02:20 PM)Tracy from St. Charles on 06/26/2021 01:52 PM
What is closest spot you can park to walk to the tunnel & approx mileage? My mom would like to see but has trouble walking.
Jim from St Thomas on 06/26/2021 02:20 PM
It’s maybe a quarter mile from the trailhead but you could probably park at the end of Central Street and cut that in half.
Trail Conditions Over This Weekend
- + The northern half of Missouri is experiencing heavy rains this weekend. Be sure to check the current trail conditions on the state parks website for updates. You may experience areas of flash floodi...
Discussion started 06/25/2021 10:37 PM by Gary - 1 reply (last reply by Gary at 06/26/2021 11:18 AM)Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/25/2021 10:37 PM
The northern half of Missouri is experiencing heavy rains this weekend. Be sure to check the current trail conditions on the state parks website for updates. You may experience areas of flash flooding, fallen trees, and washouts along the trail.
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/26/2021 11:18 AM
My rain gage maxed out at 5” of rain during the latest storms that passed through, never have seen that before.
Conditions
- + Does anyone have update on conditions of Rock Island spur PleasantHill to Windsor after last nights rain? Will we be pushing thru mud all day?
Discussion started 06/26/2021 07:16 AM by Colleen M Kenney - 0 repliesColleen M Kenney from Ocean city on 06/26/2021 07:16 AM
Does anyone have update on conditions of Rock Island spur PleasantHill to Windsor after last nights rain? Will we be pushing thru mud all day?
One way ride Logistics
- + Staying in Columbia, MO and would like to do MKT trail to KTY trail finishing in Jefferson City (about 35 miles). Our car will be back in Columbia.
Only option I can think of is that we'll have to ...
Discussion started 06/24/2021 08:20 PM by HelpMePlan - 2 replies (last reply by Jim at 06/25/2021 04:19 PM)HelpMePlan from OVERLAND PARK on 06/24/2021 08:20 PM
Staying in Columbia, MO and would like to do MKT trail to KTY trail finishing in Jefferson City (about 35 miles). Our car will be back in Columbia.
Only option I can think of is that we'll have to lock bikes somewhere in Jeff City and then Uber/Lyft back to Columbia to get our car, then drive back to Jeff City to pick up bikes. Ideas on safe place to leave EBikes?
Any other suggestions?
On a side note - Is Amtrak allowing Bikes now?
Eric from KCMO on 06/24/2021 08:29 PM
Did they ever stop taking bikes?
This only applies to the River Runner....the train from KC to St Louis. Four bikes maximum per train, because this is essentially a local train, thus no cargo car. Must purchase/reserve a spot in advance, not at the station. They have size restrictions, but I don't have specifics.
Jim from St Thomas on 06/25/2021 04:19 PM
When are are you riding? If I’m not doing anything that day I would either drive your car down to JC or run you back to Columbia for gas money.
over night parking Dutzow trail head?
- + Hello, I've Ridden the Katy several times, great fun! I've always parked at the Saint Charles trailhead for multiple days and never had a problem. This year, I'm starting in Washington/Dutzow. Has any...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 11:33 AM by Tim - 1 reply (last reply by Jerry at 06/24/2021 06:53 PM)Tim from Terre Haute, IN on 06/19/2021 11:33 AM
Hello, I've Ridden the Katy several times, great fun! I've always parked at the Saint Charles trailhead for multiple days and never had a problem. This year, I'm starting in Washington/Dutzow. Has anyone ever parked at Dutzow's trailhead for several days? Do they allow that? Thanks.
Tim
Jerry from Fort Worth on 06/24/2021 06:53 PM
I have left my car at the Dutzow trailhead in the past for several nights. The last time was in 2015. I know the owner of Revolution Cycles, Joe, in Washington, MO would let you leave your car there too. It is a short ride to the trail then.
Globe Hotel Bed & Breakfast in Hartsburg
- + We rode into Hartsburg last week after a long day on the trail. We asked the first person we saw where the hotel was and he said follow me, I’ll show you. Leaia and Mark greeted us at the hotel and ...
Discussion started 06/24/2021 11:11 AM by Rick G - 0 repliesRick G from St Louis on 06/24/2021 11:11 AM
We rode into Hartsburg last week after a long day on the trail. We asked the first person we saw where the hotel was and he said follow me, I’ll show you. Leaia and Mark greeted us at the hotel and showed us around the historic hotel. We relaxed in the evening and enjoyed ice cream with homemade chocolate sauce, so good. Before turning in, we joined Leaia and Mark to see stars and satellites in the dark sky. We got up to fresh coffee and delicious omelette breakfast. It’s a great place to stay along the trail.
Katy Junction B&B in Pilot Grove
- + We took the afternoon train to Sedalia, then shuttled to the Katy Junction for our first night before our 3 day ride last week. Jerry greeted us with cookies and had a lively conversation about the B...
Discussion started 06/24/2021 10:52 AM by Rick G - 0 repliesRick G from St Louis on 06/24/2021 10:52 AM
We took the afternoon train to Sedalia, then shuttled to the Katy Junction for our first night before our 3 day ride last week. Jerry greeted us with cookies and had a lively conversation about the B&B before turning in. When we got up Jerry greeted us with coffee and made a delicious breakfast. The house is great and bed was comfortable. Jerry went out of his way to make it a great stay. Thanks
Turner Shelter fully booked on June 26th
- + Stopped by the Turner Shelter in Tebbetts today and there is a sign on the door saying it is fully booked on the 26th. There is camping 6 miles east of the shelter in Mokane or 12 or so miles west of...
Discussion started 06/23/2021 09:36 PM by Jim - 0 repliesJim from St Thomas on 06/23/2021 09:36 PM
Stopped by the Turner Shelter in Tebbetts today and there is a sign on the door saying it is fully booked on the 26th. There is camping 6 miles east of the shelter in Mokane or 12 or so miles west of the shelter at the Noren boat ramp just before the Missouri River bridge in Jefferson City.
Water Availability Does Not Match Map
- + We just finished biking from KC to STL on the Katy! Generally a great ride - but we hit the 100+ heat index and found out that water availability at Trail Heads does not match the map - There was NO w...
Discussion started 06/23/2021 09:22 AM by Roger Meyer - 1 reply (last reply by Marna at 06/23/2021 09:34 AM)Roger Meyer from St. Paul, MN on 06/23/2021 09:22 AM
We just finished biking from KC to STL on the Katy! Generally a great ride - but we hit the 100+ heat index and found out that water availability at Trail Heads does not match the map - There was NO water at McKittrick, Treloar or Augusta because of businesses being closed. So...plan ahead and don't count on water being available where the map or signs say it is.
Marna from On The Trail on 06/23/2021 09:34 AM
THERE IS ALSO NO WATER BETWEEN SEDAILA AND PILOT GROVE....the Hilliest area of the Trail.
Lazy Liz Horse & RV Campground in Sedalia
- + Is this campground open and is it suitable for tent campers?
Discussion started 06/22/2021 08:47 AM by J Po Biker Pro - 1 reply (last reply by Kim Henderson - Kim's Cabins at 06/23/2021 06:13 AM)J Po Biker Pro on 06/22/2021 08:47 AM
Is this campground open and is it suitable for tent campers?
Kim Henderson - Kim's Cabins from Windsor on 06/23/2021 06:13 AM
I believe open yes, and $10 for primitive camping. Phone number that's listed here should be correct for more info
Lodging for two in Augusta?
- + My sister and I are heading out on the trail in October. Looking for lodging in Augusta. Separate beds desired. A week's worth of night's is reserved. Augusta is the only one left.
Discussion started 06/17/2021 01:27 PM by SurlyGirl - 1 reply (last reply by Tom from Arizona at 06/21/2021 04:34 PM)SurlyGirl from Borrego Springs, CA on 06/17/2021 01:27 PM
My sister and I are heading out on the trail in October. Looking for lodging in Augusta. Separate beds desired. A week's worth of night's is reserved. Augusta is the only one left.
Tom from Arizona from Oro Valley on 06/21/2021 04:34 PM
Easy call, we love the Red Brick inn. Try to reserve the Katy Trail Suite. You will not be disappointed.
Shuttle from Clinton to St. Charles
- + Are there shuttle services from Clinton to St. Charles? If so, which do folks recommend? Or even better, are there shuttle services from Clinton to Kirkwood or St. Louis?
Discussion started 06/20/2021 06:53 PM by Bicho - 1 reply (last reply by Larry at 06/21/2021 03:18 PM)Bicho from Chicago on 06/20/2021 06:53 PM
Are there shuttle services from Clinton to St. Charles? If so, which do folks recommend? Or even better, are there shuttle services from Clinton to Kirkwood or St. Louis?
Larry from WV on 06/21/2021 03:18 PM
Defiance KATY Bike Rental and Shuttle 636-987-2673. I used them to shuttle from St. Charles to Clinton, but they do shuttle from Clinton.
Lost wallet on the Katy Trail
- + On Sunday, June 20, I lost a small yellow dry bag containing my wallet somewhere between St. Charles and Augusta. It may have fallen out while transporting bikes over the fallen trees. If found, pleas...
Discussion started 06/21/2021 06:02 AM by Kb - 1 reply (last reply by anonymous at 06/21/2021 11:34 AM)Kb from Oakland on 06/21/2021 06:02 AM
On Sunday, June 20, I lost a small yellow dry bag containing my wallet somewhere between St. Charles and Augusta. It may have fallen out while transporting bikes over the fallen trees. If found, please call 415-305-6669. If you know how to contact trail maintenance, please let me know.
Thank you!
Anonymous on 06/21/2021 11:34 AM
Search Missouri State Parks department. You should find a contact number there.
Augusta Trailhead Parking
- + We're thinking of starting a bike trip in Augusta and would be leaving our car there for 4-5 nights. Is the parking at this trailhead secure
Discussion started 06/20/2021 02:16 PM by Krista - 0 repliesKrista from Nashville on 06/20/2021 02:16 PM
We're thinking of starting a bike trip in Augusta and would be leaving our car there for 4-5 nights. Is the parking at this trailhead secure
Steamboat Junction Campground in Bluffton
- + We were planning to stay at Bluffton Barn, since we had heard so many good reviews about Doug. We figured because we had one tent, we didn’t need to make a reservation but that was poor planning on ou...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 08:55 AM by Dale - 2 replies (last reply by Doug at 06/20/2021 02:10 PM)Dale from Farmington Utah on 06/19/2021 08:55 AM
We were planning to stay at Bluffton Barn, since we had heard so many good reviews about Doug. We figured because we had one tent, we didn’t need to make a reservation but that was poor planning on our part. My wife and I were traveling with our six small children under 12, and Doug didn’t have no wife capacity for us that evening. He recommended this campsite, I’m glad we found it. Very spacious campsite in a beautiful setting. It was really hot that day, and the owner was there for the weekend, he brought us an extension cord and box fan to put in our tent, it was amazing! He also fired up his washer and dryer to let us do a few loads of laundry. Will definitely stay here again, so I’d still like to Stay with Doug at Bluffton Barn another time.
brad wilson from st louis on 06/20/2021 01:01 PM
No "wife capacity"?
Is doug running a single-men only place?
:)
Doug from Bluffton on 06/20/2021 02:10 PM
The only thing I can figure is voice activated for "enough". Maybe his dog was barking in the background?
Ride logistics
- + I thought it would be easier to plan a ride on the KT, but I'm finding out the logistics are not straightforward. (I wanted to ride the Rock Island trail too but I see getting to the Lee Summit train ...
Discussion started 06/18/2021 03:35 PM by Bruce Schultz - 1 reply (last reply by Mark at 06/19/2021 03:05 PM)Bruce Schultz from Lafayette, LA on 06/18/2021 03:35 PM
I thought it would be easier to plan a ride on the KT, but I'm finding out the logistics are not straightforward. (I wanted to ride the Rock Island trail too but I see getting to the Lee Summit train station involves riding on some sketchy busy roads.)
So here's what I think will work in the alternative: Drive to Sedalia and leave vehicle there. Catch the Amtrak to Kirkwood. Get a shuttle to Machens trailhead and ride west back to Sedalia. If I want to do the final 35-mile stretch from Clinton, I could do that at the end of the trip and backtrack for a 70-mile day.
Any suggestions to improve this plan?
Thanks
Mark from Lee's Summit on 06/19/2021 03:05 PM
If you don't mind mapping out winding routes ahead of time that utilize low traffic roads, you can easily ride from Lee's Summit to Pleasant Hill or from the Machens trail head to Downtown St. Louis and the Arch on the Mississippi River trail segments (including the old Route 66 Chain of Rocks Bridge over the Mississippi River). It all depends on how many extra days you have to spend on these other connecting trail sections. You need to at least be comfortable riding on low traffic county roads in order to link up several of these connecting trail segments. There is even a new Rock Island Trail segment from Lee's Summit into Kansas City that runs through a short tunnel, past a nice bar/food truck, and ends next to the Royals/Chiefs stadium sports complex. Let me know if you need specific details about any of these options.
Katy Trail Cottage in Jefferson City
- + So convenient! Just a few hundred feet from the end of the bridge coming over the Missouri. Very clean with nice big basement with laundry and space to store multiple bikes (necessary to haul them ...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 12:54 PM by Char S. - 0 repliesChar S. from Minden on 06/19/2021 12:54 PM
So convenient! Just a few hundred feet from the end of the bridge coming over the Missouri. Very clean with nice big basement with laundry and space to store multiple bikes (necessary to haul them down 4 or 5 outside steps). Could use a TV: however the Wifi was fast.
I walked around the capital and had a great dinner at the Madison Cafe. Would book again.
Katy Roundhouse in New Franklin
- + Nice campsite, right on the trail as well. I didn’t love the economics on how they charge $10 per person when you’re traveling with six kids :-) $40 to set up one tent which is about what we pay at a ...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 09:02 AM by Dale - 0 repliesDale from Farmington Utah on 06/19/2021 09:02 AM
Nice campsite, right on the trail as well. I didn’t love the economics on how they charge $10 per person when you’re traveling with six kids :-) $40 to set up one tent which is about what we pay at a KOA or a campsite that is manned. When I called the number to get the shower code the gentleman was amazingly friendly, and that definitely made it an easier pill to swallow. Bathrooms weren’t very clean, but the showers were hot.
Volunteer Park in Hartsburg
- + We were running out of food when we arrived, so about 10 miles out we ordered some Papa John’s from Uber eats, $14 delivery fee, plus a tip, but well worth it. People were already camping 100 yards fr...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 08:58 AM by Dale - 0 repliesDale from Farmington Utah on 06/19/2021 08:58 AM
We were running out of food when we arrived, so about 10 miles out we ordered some Papa John’s from Uber eats, $14 delivery fee, plus a tip, but well worth it. People were already camping 100 yards from the stop, or trail head, and what we found out was volunteer Park. We set up there as well, peaceful night of camping, will definitely stay here again.
Loutre Market in McKittrick
- + The store is essentially right off the trail, you can see it to your left when headed west. Amazing deli section, the fried chicken was awesome, and green beans had a great flavor. Gatorade’s were on ...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 08:49 AM by Dale - 0 repliesDale from Farmington Utah on 06/19/2021 08:49 AM
The store is essentially right off the trail, you can see it to your left when headed west. Amazing deli section, the fried chicken was awesome, and green beans had a great flavor. Gatorade’s were on sale again, and chilled. Amazing stop. The ride into Hermann is OK, too.
Community Club Park in Marthasville
- + Don was super helpful, nice little private park next to the city park were some other cyclists stay. This gets to bathroom, electricity, and a shower for cheap.
Discussion started 06/19/2021 08:48 AM by Dale - 0 repliesDale from Farmington Utah on 06/19/2021 08:48 AM
Don was super helpful, nice little private park next to the city park were some other cyclists stay. This gets to bathroom, electricity, and a shower for cheap.
Lewis & Clark Boat House and Nature Center in St Charles
- + We were able to park our vehicle and travel trailer here for eight days, we called the local police department and they said they’d send an email out to department wide to let people know it was stayi...
Discussion started 06/19/2021 08:45 AM by Dale - 0 repliesDale from Farmington Utah on 06/19/2021 08:45 AM
We were able to park our vehicle and travel trailer here for eight days, we called the local police department and they said they’d send an email out to department wide to let people know it was staying there. We told them we might be gone for 2 to 3 weeks in case we decided to ride there and back, but ended up only leaving it there eight days. No problems. Here’s their number: 636-949-3300
Rocheport General Store in Rocheport
- + We had the pleasure of finding the General Store for lunch on our bike ride from Boonville to McBaine. We were thrilled because they had AC and water. The fact that the food was delicious was a bless...
Discussion started 06/18/2021 10:59 PM by Friends from IC - 0 repliesFriends from IC from Iowa City on 06/18/2021 10:59 PM
We had the pleasure of finding the General Store for lunch on our bike ride from Boonville to McBaine. We were thrilled because they had AC and water. The fact that the food was delicious was a blessing. Between the six of us, we had tuna salad, open face brisket sandwich, and deli sandwich (turkey). And we all had dessert - ice cream, chocolate cupcake with a meringue frosting, and 3 pieces of chocolate/peanut butter pie. Again - delicious! The staff was friendly as were the other diners! We were given a pitcher of cold water to fill our water bottles and allowed to charge our cell phones.
We highly recommend you grab a bite to eat hear along the way! (And have a piece of that chocolate & peanut butter pie if they have it!!). You will be glad you stopped!!
DNR Bicentennial Ride
- + This years DNR Bicentennial Katy Ride Information:
Register for the Katy Trail State Park Bicentennial Ride
century ride katy trail
To commemorate Missouri’s bicentennial, you are invited to partic...
Discussion started 06/18/2021 01:15 PM by Gary - 0 repliesGary from Near Tebbetts on 06/18/2021 01:15 PM
This years DNR Bicentennial Katy Ride Information:
Register for the Katy Trail State Park Bicentennial Ride
century ride katy trail
To commemorate Missouri’s bicentennial, you are invited to participate in a century ride on the Katy Trail on Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021. The Bicentennial Ride combines two century rides, 100 miles each, for a unique way to start the Missouri bicentennial commemoration. A group of 100 cyclists will depart from St. Charles and ride to North Jefferson Trailhead in Jefferson City. A second group of 100 cyclists will depart from Windsor and ride to North Jefferson Trailhead in Jefferson City. Both groups will camp in Memorial Park and have the option to see live music at Jefferson Landing State Historic Site and enjoy dinner in downtown Jefferson City.
Not ready for a century ride? Check out the family-friendly 25-mile Bicentennial Fun Ride.
Register for the Bicentennial Ride today.
Sorry, thought the links would post here also, but you should be able to find the registrations at the DNR Katy Trail website.
Globe Hotel Bed and Breakfast, Hartsburg, MO
- + The Globe Hotel Bed and Breakfast is open. (Reservations only). Call: (573) 657-4529
Discussion started 06/17/2021 08:29 PM by Clervi - 0 repliesClervi from Hartsburg on 06/17/2021 08:29 PM
The Globe Hotel Bed and Breakfast is open. (Reservations only). Call: (573) 657-4529
Trail Users
- + My turn to leave positive feedback for trail riders. I just had a group from Indiana consisting of ten teenage men with four counselors stay here. They knew how to carry on a conversation as well as ...
Discussion started 06/17/2021 07:22 AM by Doug - 0 repliesDoug from Bluffton on 06/17/2021 07:22 AM
My turn to leave positive feedback for trail riders. I just had a group from Indiana consisting of ten teenage men with four counselors stay here. They knew how to carry on a conversation as well as say "thank you sir" at the appropriate times. They had a HOT day for riding but laughed and had fun while eating dinner in my field. To top it off they Left No Trace. No trash no mess no problems for me to deal with. I would welcome them back anytime. Tonight they will be at Klondike so say hello if you meet them.
vehicle break-ins
- + As I plan a Katy trip this fall from Sedalia to St. Charles I find that my biggest concern is safety for parked vehicles at the start point. I've not seen a lot of comment about that on this list so I...
Discussion started 06/15/2021 03:50 PM by Outandback - 5 replies (last reply by Alex at 06/16/2021 10:24 AM)Outandback from Overland Park, KS on 06/15/2021 03:50 PM
As I plan a Katy trip this fall from Sedalia to St. Charles I find that my biggest concern is safety for parked vehicles at the start point. I've not seen a lot of comment about that on this list so I assume it's not a big problem. But is it a small problem? I know that anything can happen, but would you worry about parking a vehicle for a few days at a trailhead access area that would be dark and without cameras? Am I overthinking this?
Bruce Laubach on 06/15/2021 04:39 PM
When I rode from St Charles to Clinton and back, I asked th hotel where I was staying if I could leave my truck there till I was finished. They had no problem with that. No problems with break ins either.
Jim from St Thomas on 06/15/2021 05:17 PM
The only one I’ve had personal experience with is the North Jefferson trailhead. I would never leave a vehicle there after dark. If you’re going to leave a vehicle in Jefferson City I would park it in one of the state Capitol Complex lots across the river on Main Street close to the Red Wheel bike shop.
MapMedic from KCMO on 06/15/2021 08:58 PM
Are you overthinking...probably. We have all heard the message over and over not to leave anything of value in your car, ESPECIALLY visible in a car. This includes leaving any sort of bag or package that could contain something....remember the low-life, the tweaker, whoever....doesn't know there's nothing in that bag, etc. I suggest you call the Sedalia police department, ask for an officer if they are available to talk to you. Explain that you are on the trail for several days and want to know the safest place to lawfully park.
Anonymous on 06/16/2021 07:11 AM
We’ve left the car for multiple nights in Sedalia at the Depot. Ask inside where to park and leave your name, car ID, and a contact number with those at the desk. Have never had an issue at any trailheads. North Jefferson looks sketchy and in years past has got bad press here, so that is not a consideration for us. No, you’re not overthinking this. You’ll enjoy your ride more knowing you’ve thought things through and looked for advice from locals and those who have ridden the trail for years.
Alex from Boonville on 06/16/2021 10:24 AM
We've left vehicles at both the Sedalia Depot and the parking lot by the city skate park and had no issues. Just exercise normal caution, and hide/lockup all valuables. We've left vehicles for multiple nights across the whole Katy Trail with no issues.
Trip Report
- + Hello All! My daughter and just finished the whole trail (Machens to Clinton) yesterday. It was a great ride! The only report I have is of downed trees between Sedalia and Clinton. There were also qui...
Discussion started 06/14/2021 12:22 PM by Sam - 0 repliesSam from Cottleville on 06/14/2021 12:22 PM
Hello All! My daughter and just finished the whole trail (Machens to Clinton) yesterday. It was a great ride! The only report I have is of downed trees between Sedalia and Clinton. There were also quite a few rough areas of trail in Sedalia. Have fun this summer on the trail!
Mosquitos? Sun?
- + Hi all! I'm riding the KT from July 1 to the 8 (give or take a day or two). I know it's going to be hot and humid--I bike in Chicago all summer so I know to drink plenty of water, bring electrolytes, ...
Discussion started 06/12/2021 10:46 AM by Bicho - 3 replies (last reply by drice155 at 06/14/2021 07:11 AM)Bicho from Chicago on 06/12/2021 10:46 AM
Hi all! I'm riding the KT from July 1 to the 8 (give or take a day or two). I know it's going to be hot and humid--I bike in Chicago all summer so I know to drink plenty of water, bring electrolytes, and I have the right clothes for humid heat. I'm assuming there is going to be a lot of mosquitos too, right?
My main question though, is whether the the ride (Machens to Clinton) is in the shade (as in covered by trees) or directly under the sun? The plan is to start every day as early as possible to avoid the worst part of the heat.
Thanks, and happy riding everybody!
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/12/2021 12:35 PM
You will find both, parts covered by tree canopies and stretches of open sun baked trail which will make you appreciate those tree tunnels all the more. ;-)
Karen C. from Harrisburg, MO on 06/13/2021 06:32 PM
Like Gary said, you will find both open and covered. I always use Bullfrog sun block that also has bug spray in it. It really helps! When it is so humid it also turns me into a human sticky trap...I have to pick my poison, right? :-)
Have fun!
drice155 from Rochester on 06/14/2021 07:11 AM
We just rode the trail last week from Clinton to St Charles.
Bugs were not a big problem (we did not camp) for us.
It was hot and humid for sure, but early starts and lots of water (which is more available than we expected on the trail). Bring at least two water bottles.
As for shade, yes there are multiple portions with a good and cool
canopy for riding out of the sun. As noted, there are also some sections (less than 25%)
We had a great experience and assume you will also!
Bluffton Barn in Bluffton
- + Of the many things I enjoy about riding the Katy Trail are the starry nights, fireflies, critters, creeks, MO culture, and PEOPLE you cross paths with along the way.
Doug, owner of the Bluffton Barn...
Discussion started 06/12/2021 05:58 PM by SuzieStarship - 1 reply (last reply by Doug at 06/12/2021 07:14 PM)SuzieStarship from Pepperell Massachusetts on 06/12/2021 05:58 PM
Of the many things I enjoy about riding the Katy Trail are the starry nights, fireflies, critters, creeks, MO culture, and PEOPLE you cross paths with along the way.
Doug, owner of the Bluffton Barn, his dogs Freckles and Spot, along with his nearby neighbor were highlights yesterday.
I heard critter stories and a recording of good local string-band music; held beautiful, handmade, deer tibia jewelry; learned about blackpowder, and events called “Rendevous”; all the while enjoying a cold, refreshing MO beer supplied by my host after my hot and humid ride (that’s Missouri!).
I was down to my last two carrots and a pint of peanut butter. Doug offered to make me a mighty good meal to be followed by homemade, scratch German chocolate cake, and dining al fresco for short change :-).
I stayed overnight in an air conditioned room in the old farmhouse —which does have a full-kitchen. It’s “down-home” as I like to say, not posh, and quite comfortable.
Many thanks to Doug for catering to cyclists on the Katy with kindness, rich stories and conversation, and options to suit the needs and pocketbooks of his guests.
Doug from Bluffton on 06/12/2021 07:14 PM
Thanks Suzie! High Praise from an unbelievably fun human being! I have guests tonight that met you on the trail today and were amazed! A WHOLE lot of good vibes shared on your behalf! Nothing I can say will let you know how welcome you are in these parts; but I hope I have.
Bluffton Barn in Bluffton
- + Of the many things I enjoy about riding the Katy Trail are the starry nights, fireflies, critters, creeks, MO culture, and PEOPLE you cross paths with along the way.
Doug, owner of the Bluffton Barn...
Discussion started 06/12/2021 04:27 PM by SuzieStarship - 0 repliesSuzieStarship from Pepperell Massachusetts on 06/12/2021 04:27 PM
Of the many things I enjoy about riding the Katy Trail are the starry nights, fireflies, critters, creeks, MO culture, and PEOPLE you cross paths with along the way.
Doug, owner of the Bluffton Barn, his dogs Freckles and Spot, along with his nearby neighbor were highlights yesterday.
I heard critter stories and a recording of good local string-band music; held beautiful, handmade, deer tibia jewelry; learned about blackpowder, and events called “Rendevous”; all the while enjoying a cold, refreshing MO beer supplied by my host after my hot and humid ride (that’s Missouri!).
I was down to my last two carrots and a pint of peanut butter. Doug offered to make me a mighty good meal to be followed by homemade, scratch German chocolate cake, and dining al fresco for short change :-).
I stayed overnight in an air conditioned room in the old farmhouse —which does have a full-kitchen. It’s “down-home” as I like to say, not posh, and quite comfortable.
Many thanks to Doug for catering to cyclists on the Katy with kindness, rich stories and conversation, and options to suit the needs and pocketbooks of his guests.
Bluffton Barn in Bluffton
- + Loved staying at “the Barn”. Had the most enjoyable interaction with other guests and of course our host Doug. He is a genuine person and provides comfort and entertainment and fellowship to all. Will...
Discussion started 06/12/2021 09:23 AM by Corie - 0 repliesCorie from Texas on 06/12/2021 09:23 AM
Loved staying at “the Barn”. Had the most enjoyable interaction with other guests and of course our host Doug. He is a genuine person and provides comfort and entertainment and fellowship to all. Will definitely come again!,