Music on the Trail via Bluetooth speaker
- + And now I'm hearing (or not hearing) there's no music allowed to be played open air on the trail? Is that correct?
Discussion started 06/10/2025 09:55 AM by Dave - 11 replies (last reply by Soloist Tourer. at 06/29/2025 09:24 AM)Dave from Chatham on 06/10/2025 09:55 AM
And now I'm hearing (or not hearing) there's no music allowed to be played open air on the trail? Is that correct?
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/10/2025 02:18 PM
a single earbud gives me music while I am still able to hear my surroundings. i do not know what rules there may be.
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/10/2025 04:34 PM
The prime directive is to do no harm and be considerate of others using the trail.
Dave H from Chatham on 06/12/2025 11:55 AM
Thanks!
Scotty Mac from OKC on 06/13/2025 11:34 AM
I use Shokz bone conduction earphones when riding, and have used them twice on the Katy. They also will hold a charge for a full day of riding. You can hear your music just fine and also, others who may be talking to you.
John Clark from Bakersfield, CA on 06/14/2025 09:05 AM
Crank up the tunes!
If people crumble at a minor "inconvenience" such as music, they can slow down or speed up; if they go the same speed, that's they're problem! I'm bringing my small Bluetooth speaker- I was going to bring the big Bazooka Blaster (JBL Boombox) like I do for RAGBRAI, but the front and rear rack have bags on top ??
John Clark from Bakersfield, CA on 06/14/2025 09:07 AM
Their* problem (edit)
Jim from St. Thomas on 06/14/2025 05:58 PM
With the technology available these days I don't understand the need to blast music through Bluetooth speakers but you do you. I'm sure everyone will survive their brief interaction with you.
Bill R. from Wentzville on 06/15/2025 07:08 AM
In all my years and trips on the trail, I've only encountered a couple people playing music while riding. It was very brief as they passed by so it wasn't that obtrusive. I guess they want the companionship or are warding off bears or other evil spirits. :) Not my cup 'o tea but like Jim said, u do u.
CurtM from Farmington AR on 06/16/2025 12:03 PM
I suppose some might see their selfishness as inconvenient to others, but blasting so-called music in what is otherwise a pretty enjoyable experience is just being inconsiderate. I've ridden many biking events and the clowns who insist on playing what they consider music get the pleasure of riding alone.
Sharonbikes from KC on 06/16/2025 01:51 PM
Riding with music blaring from a speaker seems to be a distinctively Iowa thing. I have ridden rail trails all over and it’s just in Iowa where people regularly make everyone else listen to their music. So- be respectful of those around you. And- if you encounter me- expect me to start singing. .. loudly. If I have to listen to your music- well, you won’t mind listening to mine.
Enjoy the ride!
Soloist Tourer. from Jane, MO. on 06/29/2025 09:24 AM
I can listen just about anything but Mexican Band(slow tempo Polka)Music, not on the Trail , there I like to listen Nature.
Trees down MM 049-50
- + Two separate trees came down across the trail between mile markers 49 and 50. We may have been the first to come across them as we were following right behind the storm. The West one is easy to roll...
Discussion started 06/27/2025 06:22 PM by Channabilly - 2 replies (last reply by Avavtar at 06/29/2025 07:13 AM)Channabilly from Channahon, IL on 06/27/2025 06:22 PM
Two separate trees came down across the trail between mile markers 49 and 50. We may have been the first to come across them as we were following right behind the storm. The West one is easy to roll a bike over but is still a big log. We cleared out most everything else. The Eastern one blocks the whole trail and we were able to go around the the North but it took two people and lost the expletives.
Losts of other large branches down from Defiance to Greens Bottom. Something serious went through.
Good luck.
Bill R. from Wentzville on 06/29/2025 05:39 AM
How was the trail from Greens Bottom to Weldon Spring? I rode that stretch on Father's Day and that first half-mile west of GB was pretty tough. The fine chat was really thick and it was like riding on the beach. Looked like they had a pretty significant wash-out that they covered.
Avavtar on 06/29/2025 07:13 AM
It was still an issue early Friday. I've been riding on the shoulder until Caulks Hill Rd.
Wally's Bike Retreat
- + Greetings,
I just wanted to share there is a new lodging option in Sedalia Mo right off the Trail. Wally's Bike Retreat is a cost effective dorm/camp-style lodging that can accommodate up to 8 riders....
Discussion started 06/20/2025 01:18 PM by Nate - 7 replies (last reply by Scotty Mac at 06/26/2025 01:47 PM)Nate on 06/20/2025 01:18 PM
Greetings,
I just wanted to share there is a new lodging option in Sedalia Mo right off the Trail. Wally's Bike Retreat is a cost effective dorm/camp-style lodging that can accommodate up to 8 riders.
Perfect for those tourer and bikepackers that want a night off the ground, or those who want to have a unique experience while out on the trail.
Check us out. Ride in - Rest up!
Eric from KCMO on 06/21/2025 04:26 PM
I suggest you mention how to find info on your lodging. I found it, but I had to work for it and I know how to use google, Airbnb, etc….maybe include a link for the internet challenged. Looks like a great use for that house.
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/21/2025 06:17 PM
If you put an address and contact number, Ray might be able to add you to the Sedalia map. Glad there's a new option in Sedalia!
Rick KC on 06/22/2025 09:58 AM
Yeah I'd love to know how to find/reserve this place for my next ride....what's the secret?
Ray (webmaster) on 06/22/2025 11:18 AM
Yes, Wally's is listed on the Sedalia page at https://bikekatytrail.com/sedalia.aspx
If you click that listing, it leads to a separate page with details on Wally's, including the AirBnB link
Rick KC on 06/23/2025 10:37 AM
Ray, as always you are on top of it! Thanks for keeping us updated!
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/23/2025 05:01 PM
Nice!
Scotty Mac from OKC on 06/26/2025 01:47 PM
I'm CERTAIN it's WAAAYY better than and noisy, windy FG AND you don't have to worry about old Mr. Grumpy pulling his truck up to about 3 ft from your tent shining his headlights right at your tent door at 1000 to collect your fee...because no one was around when you arrived. :/
Dormitory at School House B + B in Rocheport
- + I stayed in the dormitory building of this B&B while doing a Katy Trail bike ride. It was just what I needed. Small room with two twin bunk beds and a pull-out full size sofa. Very comfortable with TV...
Discussion started 06/21/2025 09:43 PM - 0 repliesAnonymous from St. Louis on 06/21/2025 09:43 PM
I stayed in the dormitory building of this B&B while doing a Katy Trail bike ride. It was just what I needed. Small room with two twin bunk beds and a pull-out full size sofa. Very comfortable with TV, fridge, and wi-fi. Plus a nice shed next door that I could lock up my bike in. Plus washer/dryer so I could do a load of laundry. No noise during night so I slept fine. Continental breakfast items (yogurt, muffin, cereal, instant oatmeal) were provided so I could eat as early in the morning as I wanted and get on with my ride. Price was very reasonable. The owner made check-in/check-out very easy. I highly recommend this place for bikers who want to spend a night in Rocheport.
RENTALS
- + Just spoke with Meriwether Cafe in Rocheport. They are on the Katy Trail. They have a lot of rentals available! 573-698-1222
Discussion started 06/21/2025 03:12 PM by FROGERITY - 0 repliesFROGERITY from HONOLULU on 06/21/2025 03:12 PM
Just spoke with Meriwether Cafe in Rocheport. They are on the Katy Trail. They have a lot of rentals available! 573-698-1222
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RENTALS
https://bikekatytrail.com/talk.aspx?tid=14194&tonly=1
Tram Tour - St. Charles to Machens
- + We have reservations for the tram tour June 25. Where do we park to get on the tram?
Discussion started 06/21/2025 03:06 PM by DS - 0 repliesDS on 06/21/2025 03:06 PM
We have reservations for the tram tour June 25. Where do we park to get on the tram?
Hikers
- + Do you encounter a lot of hikers/walkers on the trail? Are there any safety concerns on the path?
Discussion started 06/17/2025 04:36 PM by Quentin - 2 replies (last reply by Bill R. at 06/18/2025 12:07 PM)Quentin from Manchester on 06/17/2025 04:36 PM
Do you encounter a lot of hikers/walkers on the trail? Are there any safety concerns on the path?
Jeffco25 from Ponder, TX on 06/18/2025 09:34 AM
I’ve been on the trail traveling west to east for the last 3 days and have only seen the occasional hiker.
Bill R. from Wentzville on 06/18/2025 12:07 PM
On weekends in the more populated areas or tourist areas, you might see hikers/walkers/runners. Otherwise, pretty quiet. As far as safety concerns, running over a scampering squirrel might be about it. Crossing paved highways can be tricky. You just gotta use common sense and realize you will never win an encounter with a motor vehicle.
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or share this link to just this thread:
Hikers
https://bikekatytrail.com/talk.aspx?tid=14186&tonly=1
Deon's Bar & Grill in Pilot Grove
- + We were disappointed to find this establishment closed Sunday, Monday AND Tuesday! Only place to find food was Casey’s, which does make a good pizza.
Discussion started 06/18/2025 09:28 AM by Crystal - 0 repliesCrystal from Frostproof FL on 06/18/2025 09:28 AM
We were disappointed to find this establishment closed Sunday, Monday AND Tuesday! Only place to find food was Casey’s, which does make a good pizza.
Pilot Grove Trailhead in Pilot Grove
- + It isn’t on this site but the Katy Junction B&B is right across the street from the trailhead. Jerry the owner fixes a great breakfast & served us brownies & ice cream as an evening treat. Great plac...
Discussion started 06/18/2025 09:23 AM by Crystal - 0 repliesCrystal from Frostproof FL on 06/18/2025 09:23 AM
It isn’t on this site but the Katy Junction B&B is right across the street from the trailhead. Jerry the owner fixes a great breakfast & served us brownies & ice cream as an evening treat. Great place to stay.
B careful
- + I have been riding the Katy trail regularly for over 10 years now.
This year I have noticed nearly all what I will call street riders, not
Giving any kind of notice or warning that they are going to...
Discussion started 06/16/2025 01:52 PM by VN1970 - 0 repliesVN1970 from Dardenne Prarie on 06/16/2025 01:52 PM
I have been riding the Katy trail regularly for over 10 years now.
This year I have noticed nearly all what I will call street riders, not
Giving any kind of notice or warning that they are going to pass you.
Today I almost inadvertently spat on someone who just appeared and
Without notice and passed me.
What if I had wandered out of my lane having to avoid an object? it could
Be disastrous for both riders!
This is careless and irresponsible behavior so either get a bell or at the least
Give a verbal warning when passing either another cyclist or runner!
Dormitory at School House B + B in Rocheport
- + My spouse and I just stayed at the Dormitory at the School House B&B in Rocheport. It was comfortable and clean. There is a shed available for storing bicycles overnight (we took advantage of this s...
Discussion started 06/15/2025 06:32 PM by John F Hickey - 0 repliesJohn F Hickey from Saint Louis on 06/15/2025 06:32 PM
My spouse and I just stayed at the Dormitory at the School House B&B in Rocheport. It was comfortable and clean. There is a shed available for storing bicycles overnight (we took advantage of this service). After our one night stay at "The Dormitory at School House B&B", we headed west on the Katy Trail. There is a parking lot where we left our car that is adjacent to Meriwether's Restaurant in Rocheport (a few minutes from our B&B) - the parking lot is part of the state park so available for use.
Where to ride close to St Louis
- + I have never ridden any part of the katy trail. We will be in St Louis soon and I am looking for advice of where to start St Charles, Defiance...? Which way is more scenic to do a 20-30 mile out and ...
Discussion started 06/10/2025 04:00 PM by Casual rider - 3 replies (last reply by Bill in Columbia (was Houston) at 06/10/2025 04:56 PM)Casual rider from Burlington on 06/10/2025 04:00 PM
I have never ridden any part of the katy trail. We will be in St Louis soon and I am looking for advice of where to start St Charles, Defiance...? Which way is more scenic to do a 20-30 mile out and back. Is there a spot you would recommend parking, and then which direction would you recommend going for a nice scenic view?
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/10/2025 04:29 PM
Both St Charles and Defiance have nice places to park and to grab a snack after riding. Between the two, I'd probably start in Defiance and head west.
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 06/10/2025 04:29 PM
1) St. Charles to Dutzow and back (with a stop in at Blumenhoff winery in Dutzow explore towns along the way.
2) Dutzow to Mackittrick/Herman area and back check out restaurants in Hermann and along the way.
The adventure is in finding those unique treasures along the trail.
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/10/2025 04:56 PM
Certain places are trail legends. Loutre Market is not to be missed if you're in the McK/Hermann metroplex. :) Hot food, cold beverages. Bikers to chat with.
Isle of Capri Casino & Hotel in Boonville
- + Wife and I just spent the night here. Gotta say, our expectations were low.
The staff did not bat an eye at the bikes rolling through the lobby. A Road Scholar bike trip was staying there as well...
Discussion started 06/10/2025 04:49 PM by Bill in Columbia (was Houston) - 0 repliesBill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/10/2025 04:49 PM
Wife and I just spent the night here. Gotta say, our expectations were low.
The staff did not bat an eye at the bikes rolling through the lobby. A Road Scholar bike trip was staying there as well, and they had about 20 bikes with them. We got three bikes into the elevator with no problem.
Lobby and casino were lightly smoky. Hallway on our floor was not smoky, and the room was also totally non-smoky. We were really happy about that.
The place looked surprisingly new inside. Carpet was clean, room was clean, A/C was cold, shower was hot, bed was good.
We ate at the restaurant in the casino. I had a really good burger and fries, and it was $16. They had local beer on tap. Wifey got some kind of giant nachos, which were also good. And of course, gooey butter cake for dessert.
I always say to support small business, but on this night, the convenience and low price of the big guy delivered.
Camp anywhere?
- + So what's the rule on camping along the trail free style as in stop n pop the tent? Using common sense of course.
Discussion started 06/08/2025 07:35 PM by Dave - 3 replies (last reply by Bill in Columbia (was Houston) at 06/10/2025 02:16 PM)Dave from Chatham on 06/08/2025 07:35 PM
So what's the rule on camping along the trail free style as in stop n pop the tent? Using common sense of course.
Anonymous on 06/09/2025 06:44 AM
Camping along the Katy Trail
Camping along the Katy Trail is a popular option for multi-day travelers. Please note that it is not legal to simply camp alongside the trail, and of course camping on private property is out of the question. Fortunately, there are many excellent camping facilities along the Katy Trail.
There are also numerous city parks that allow camping. Typically these parks are not set up with campsites, and you can't build a campfire. But you can find a nice spot to pitch a tent, with the added bonus of public restroom facilities.
Ray (webmaster) on 06/09/2025 07:33 AM
Here's a list of camping locations along the Katy Trail and Rock Island Trail:
https://bikekatytrail.com/katy-trail-camping.aspx
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/10/2025 02:16 PM
Nope, no freestyle, no stop'n'pop.
Bike Racks on the Amtrak River Runner?
- + Any tips for loading the bike on the Amtrak Missouri River Runner? Been a while since I hauled my bike on an Amtrak but I bet they still give 0.5 seconds to do it. :)
Discussion started 06/10/2025 01:44 PM by Dave H - 0 repliesDave H from Chatham on 06/10/2025 01:44 PM
Any tips for loading the bike on the Amtrak Missouri River Runner? Been a while since I hauled my bike on an Amtrak but I bet they still give 0.5 seconds to do it. :)
Lindenhof Bed & Breakfast in Augusta
- + Lindenhof is a beautiful,quaint,well-maintained Bed & Breakfast. Kathy is the most gracious hostess you could ask for. She went out of her way to accommodate our late arrival and our request for a v...
Discussion started 07/24/2019 09:31 AM by Robert & Connie U - 1 reply (last reply by Anne Reed at 06/07/2025 01:42 PM)Robert & Connie U from Campton Hills Il on 07/24/2019 09:31 AM
Lindenhof is a beautiful,quaint,well-maintained Bed & Breakfast. Kathy is the most gracious hostess you could ask for. She went out of her way to accommodate our late arrival and our request for a very early breakfast. The breakfast was home cooked and exceptional-a hearty start to our busy day ahead!
Anne Reed from Phoenix on 06/07/2025 01:42 PM
Trail runners. Ive done 800 miles of the AT. No blisters in my La Sportiva. Narrow feet. For wider feet try Altra. Avoid waterproof. It doesn’t work and your feet can’t dry out. Good luck and have fun.
Kim's Cabins in Windsor
- + Wonderful experience! Kim helped us tour the local history museum and gave us ideas for Windsor. Enjoyed cooking in the cabin kitchen and sitting on the porch. Looking forward to staying again.
Discussion started 06/04/2025 03:22 PM by Brad - 1 reply (last reply by Kim Henderson - Kim's Cabins at 06/05/2025 03:14 PM)Brad from Redwood City,CA on 06/04/2025 03:22 PM
Wonderful experience! Kim helped us tour the local history museum and gave us ideas for Windsor. Enjoyed cooking in the cabin kitchen and sitting on the porch. Looking forward to staying again.
Kim Henderson - Kim's Cabins from Windsor on 06/05/2025 03:14 PM
Thanks Brad! Was awesome to have you all stay a couple nights at the cabins during your full Katy adventure! Hope you'll come back to Missouri again!
Augusta Food Options
- + My wife and I are planning to cycle the trail again in September for our anniversary and when planning out the trip we decided on staying in Augusta for the final night before hitting Machens the foll...
Discussion started 06/04/2025 09:24 AM by Chris - 1 reply (last reply by GWW at 06/05/2025 02:43 PM)Chris from St. Charles on 06/04/2025 09:24 AM
My wife and I are planning to cycle the trail again in September for our anniversary and when planning out the trip we decided on staying in Augusta for the final night before hitting Machens the following day. Looking at food options on a Wednesday/Thursday seem very sparse. The old White House restaurant is closed and Root Food + Wine doesnt open until 5:00 pm on Thursday (we will be gone by then). Am I missing something? There doesn't really seem to be any restaurants to eat at in Augusta anymore...
GWW from Washington on 06/05/2025 02:43 PM
Sorry, but there isn't any food options in Augusta that are open during the day. The closest ones are in Dutzow to the west or Defiance to the east
Dormitory at School House B + B in Rocheport
- + Clean. Well organized. Nice location. Friendly host. Washer/dryer complementary. Breakfast items very sugary.
Discussion started 06/03/2025 08:41 AM by Brad - 0 repliesBrad from Redwood City, CA on 06/03/2025 08:41 AM
Clean. Well organized. Nice location. Friendly host. Washer/dryer complementary. Breakfast items very sugary.
Bugs in mid June?
- + I am thinking about bringing my son up to ride the KATY mid June. Can anyone give me an idea of how bad the bugs might be, especially biting bugs? My son swells up and has a strong reaction to mosqu...
Discussion started 05/13/2025 01:08 PM by R - 5 replies (last reply by R at 06/02/2025 03:13 PM)R on 05/13/2025 01:08 PM
I am thinking about bringing my son up to ride the KATY mid June. Can anyone give me an idea of how bad the bugs might be, especially biting bugs? My son swells up and has a strong reaction to mosquito and gnat bites, and being a youngster, his misery is freely shared with Dad.
I rode the KATY 3rd week of April, and other than the usual farm field bugs in the teeth after dark, I had no bug issues at all.
GWW from Washington on 05/14/2025 10:44 AM
Mosquitoes can be thick near bodies of water, as well as ticks if you get off the trail. Yellowjackets are the worse and wasps also, but they shouldn't be an overall obstacle for not riding the trail if you take and use repellents.
Jerome S. Whittle from O Fallon on 05/14/2025 03:29 PM
Mosquitoes can be really bad. Ticks also. DEET bug repellent is a must if you have a strong reaction to bug bites.
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 05/15/2025 07:56 AM
I think as long as I am moving, they stay off me. But one day near McBaine I stopped, and they almost got all of my blood before I could escape. I wish I remembered which month that was in. There was a very large constructed wetlands nearby, and I think the mosquitoes were coming from there.
DS Douin from KT Rider on 05/18/2025 04:18 AM
Definitely bring repellent both spray and wipe on since as was said you ride through bug impact on your body as well when you stop they will swarm you especially around standing water which is pretty often. Keep your kids lathered up!
R on 06/02/2025 03:13 PM
Thank you everyone for your input.
Riding in rain
- + How hard is it to ride in the rain? Would we be silly to try it today? Thursday 5/29
Discussion started 05/29/2025 06:27 AM by Trying to complete the entire trail - 4 replies (last reply by Bill in Columbia (was Houston) at 06/01/2025 09:43 PM)Trying to complete the entire trail from Kansas City on 05/29/2025 06:27 AM
How hard is it to ride in the rain? Would we be silly to try it today? Thursday 5/29
Gary from Near Tebbetts on 05/29/2025 09:23 AM
The main things to consider are:
Tire width, narrower tires will tend to sink in soft spots.
Rain gear, do you have ponchos or at least garbage bags to keep you dry and waterproof gloves and small bags to put on your feet to keep them dry.
Good news is it is not suppose to have a lot of heavy rain or thunderstorms today, just cold drizzle with light winds from the north.
After today it should be sunny and warmer.
Jerry Whittle from O Fallon Illinois on 05/30/2025 09:29 AM
I'll add to what Gary said. If the trail is wet, it can be very mushy especially in the west as it isn't packed down.
Wider tires are better; however, they should have deep tread or knobbies. I once was riding on 650b x 47s smooth tires near Windsor. The rear tire was spinning as I was pedaling. I changed those tires to a pair that had small knobbies and the problem went away. Same on my MTB tandem which really helped on the muddy C&O Towpath trail.
I also highly recommend fenders. They really help in the rain or even when the Katy is dry and dusty.
Eric from KCMO on 05/31/2025 02:55 PM
Please follow up with your post and it sounds like this might be worth a separate post about your experiences.
The crushed rock surface of Katy is about as close to being paved as it can get. Some people only want paved trails, but we have freeze/thaw cycles and plentiful tree roots here. Both will heave trails and ultimately make pavement broken and rough, adding to the already expensive cost to maintain. We will keep our crushed rock trail and be glad to have it (comment/opinion written for everyone not just you) When wet it’s a little mushy, but not bad….unless it rained a lot.
Bill in Columbia (was Houston) on 06/01/2025 09:43 PM
How was your trip?