Riding
- + I was wondering if anyone has put together a Katy Trail race?
Discussion started 03/07/2005 08:33 AM by Doug - 11 replies (last reply by Doug at 09/23/2005 03:18 PM)Doug from Saint Charles on 03/07/2005 08:33 AM
I was wondering if anyone has put together a Katy Trail race?
Doug from Saint Charles on 03/07/2005 08:33 AM
I was wondering if anyone has put together a Katy Trail race?
Ray (webmaster) on 03/09/2005 12:51 PM
I assume you're talking about bike races -- surprisingly, I am not aware of any. Other than the Race Across America, which uses a small part of the Katy Trail, but you have to ride the other 3000 miles to participate in this coast-to-coast race!
On the other hand, there are usually a few running races on the trail each year. The
Lewis & Clark Marathon uses part of the trail near St Charles each September, and there are usually a handful of other 5K/10K type foot races every year.
If/when I learn about any races, whether running or cycling, I'll add them to the
Events Page.
Ray (webmaster) on 03/09/2005 12:51 PM
I assume you're talking about bike races -- surprisingly, I am not aware of any. Other than the Race Across America, which uses a small part of the Katy Trail, but you have to ride the other 3000 miles to participate in this coast-to-coast race!
On the other hand, there are usually a few running races on the trail each year. The
Lewis & Clark Marathon uses part of the trail near St Charles each September, and there are usually a handful of other 5K/10K type foot races every year.
If/when I learn about any races, whether running or cycling, I'll add them to the
Events Page.
Dave from Carrollton, TX on 06/15/2005 01:29 AM
Don't believe racing is the purpose of the Katy Trail...or any trail.
Dave from Carrollton, TX on 06/15/2005 01:29 AM
Don't believe racing is the purpose of the Katy Trail...or any trail.
Doug from Saint Charles on 07/06/2005 01:24 PM
Who are you to say what the Katy is for? Of course it is for relaxing but can also be used for Mountain Bike racing.
Doug from Saint Charles on 07/06/2005 01:24 PM
Who are you to say what the Katy is for? Of course it is for relaxing but can also be used for Mountain Bike racing.
Trail Rider from Los Angeles on 07/06/2005 03:31 PM
I thought about this while riding the trail the other day. While I took four days to do the ride, if we went more minimalist on the gear, I think the whole trail could be done in around 15 hours. There were so few trail users during the time we were on the trail, I don't think that a group of riders going 20mph would be a problem at all. The Katy trail is a bike path, and racing is riding.
Trail Rider from Los Angeles on 07/06/2005 03:31 PM
I thought about this while riding the trail the other day. While I took four days to do the ride, if we went more minimalist on the gear, I think the whole trail could be done in around 15 hours. There were so few trail users during the time we were on the trail, I don't think that a group of riders going 20mph would be a problem at all. The Katy trail is a bike path, and racing is riding.
Nails on 07/12/2005 08:19 AM
A small portion of the Heart of America (Columbia) Marathon also uses the KATY trail.
http://ctc.coin.org/hoa/course.htm
As reported on this website, Sam Baugh rode the KATY trail in one day.
http://www.bikekatytrail.com/samreport.asp
Nails on 07/12/2005 08:19 AM
A small portion of the Heart of America (Columbia) Marathon also uses the KATY trail.
http://ctc.coin.org/hoa/course.htm
As reported on this website, Sam Baugh rode the KATY trail in one day.
http://www.bikekatytrail.com/samreport.asp
Doug from Saint Charles Missouri on 08/23/2005 03:12 PM
Thanks Everyone. I plan on starting up a Katy Race this fall. 5 mile dash.
Doug from Saint Charles Missouri on 08/23/2005 03:12 PM
Thanks Everyone. I plan on starting up a Katy Race this fall. 5 mile dash.
Sue from Balwin, Mo. on 09/09/2005 10:27 AM
The KATY is for SITE SEEING not RACING.
Sue from Balwin, Mo. on 09/09/2005 10:27 AM
The KATY is for SITE SEEING not RACING.
Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 09/09/2005 01:31 PM
That's what I appreciate the Katy for, but it is a state park and Missouri State Park rules apply. It lends itself to many people for many uses. Groups have been known to host benefit rides on the Katy...not for site seeing, but to raise money for their cause.
Looking at the DNR website, it appears that the park can be used for other things. According to the DNR website:
Special Event Permits
All groups or organizations desiring to use Katy Trail State Park for a special event activity must obtain a special event permit from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. E-mail or call 1-800-334-6946 for information on how to obtain a special event permit.
Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 09/09/2005 01:31 PM
That's what I appreciate the Katy for, but it is a state park and Missouri State Park rules apply. It lends itself to many people for many uses. Groups have been known to host benefit rides on the Katy...not for site seeing, but to raise money for their cause.
Looking at the DNR website, it appears that the park can be used for other things. According to the DNR website:
Special Event Permits
All groups or organizations desiring to use Katy Trail State Park for a special event activity must obtain a special event permit from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. E-mail or call 1-800-334-6946 for information on how to obtain a special event permit.
Doug from Saint Charles on 09/23/2005 12:54 PM
The KATY is for SITE SEEING not RACING.
- posted 9/9/2005 10:28:00 AM by Sue , Balwin, Mo
Hey Sue stay home and knit something.
Doug from Saint Charles on 09/23/2005 12:54 PM
The KATY is for SITE SEEING not RACING.
- posted 9/9/2005 10:28:00 AM by Sue , Balwin, Mo
Hey Sue stay home and knit something.
Ray (webmaster) on 09/23/2005 02:18 PM
I agree that the Katy Trail is great for site seeing, AND racing, but let's not get any flame wars going.
I would bet that most people who participate in such a race have already had previous, more leisurely experiences on the trail. Racers who have
not used the Katy in a more relaxed manner, will probably be tempted to come back for an easy run/ride after getting a taste of it during the race.
Doug,
let me know if/when you organize the race, and I'll help publicize it through this website.
Ray (webmaster) on 09/23/2005 02:18 PM
I agree that the Katy Trail is great for site seeing, AND racing, but let's not get any flame wars going.
I would bet that most people who participate in such a race have already had previous, more leisurely experiences on the trail. Racers who have
not used the Katy in a more relaxed manner, will probably be tempted to come back for an easy run/ride after getting a taste of it during the race.
Doug,
let me know if/when you organize the race, and I'll help publicize it through this website.
Doug from Saint Charles on 09/23/2005 03:18 PM
I'm sorry Ray. Didn't mean to lash back at Sue the Rule maker of the Katy trail. I'll instead use my energy for the good an put this race in motion.
Doug from Saint Charles on 09/23/2005 03:18 PM
I'm sorry Ray. Didn't mean to lash back at Sue the Rule maker of the Katy trail. I'll instead use my energy for the good an put this race in motion.
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Raise your hand: riders on the trail Sept. 25-30...east to west
- + Anyone riding the trail from Sept 25-30th going east to west...
raise your hand. My friend and i will be starting in St. Charles and going to Sedalia.
Discussion started 09/22/2005 11:14 AM by gretchen - 0 repliesgretchen from glen ellyn, il on 09/22/2005 11:14 AM
Anyone riding the trail from Sept 25-30th going east to west...
raise your hand. My friend and i will be starting in St. Charles and going to Sedalia.
Planning a trip
- + We would like to drive from Memphis to Rocheport and spend the night then ride the trail the next day to Hartsburg. Does anyone know of a shuttle that will take us from Hartsburg back to our car at R...
Discussion started 09/10/2005 09:40 AM by slp - 3 replies (last reply by gretchen at 09/22/2005 07:16 AM)slp from Memphis on 09/10/2005 09:40 AM
We would like to drive from Memphis to Rocheport and spend the night then ride the trail the next day to Hartsburg. Does anyone know of a shuttle that will take us from Hartsburg back to our car at Rocheport?
Thanks,
Rob from Liberty, MO on 09/10/2005 08:21 PM
I would call or e-mail the Trailside Cafe and Bike shop at Rocheport or Hartsburg Cycle Depot at Hartsburg.
http://www.trailsidecafebike.com/
http://www.hartsburg-cycledepot.com/hartsburg_cycle_depot_001.htm
Ray (webmaster) on 09/11/2005 08:49 AM
gretchen from glen ellyn, il on 09/22/2005 07:16 AM
I'm riding from St. Charles to Sedalia this Sunday-Thurs...anyone planning on being out there? Maybe we'll see each other!
Trail Conditions
- + I will be biking the trail on a hybrid bike from Sedalia to St Charles starting this Friday. I would like to know the conditions of the trail: any sandy or washed-out areas to watch out for? I had rea...
Discussion started 09/20/2005 09:33 PM by bikerLaura - 2 replies (last reply by Trek Biker at 09/21/2005 04:54 PM)bikerLaura from Round Lake, IL on 09/20/2005 09:33 PM
I will be biking the trail on a hybrid bike from Sedalia to St Charles starting this Friday. I would like to know the conditions of the trail: any sandy or washed-out areas to watch out for? I had read a while back about a segment near Hartsburg being washed-out.
frank from festus, mo on 09/20/2005 11:40 PM
rode from hartsburg to no jefferson and back in late july / early august. bouts 2-3 miles east of hartsburg, there were numerous areas that was like soft powder. other than that, great riding. have fun / good luck.
Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 09/21/2005 04:54 PM
There is a button (Trail Conditions) a few down from the Comments button that got you here......try that or check out Missouri State Parks at http://www.mostateparks.com/katytrail/conditions.htm
Hermann
- + Before the trip, kept getting told that the Hermann bridge was death. It wasn't really that bad to me or my riding buddy. Perhaps I'm getting to be an experienced cyclist. Very cute city. Stayed i...
Discussion started 02/22/2005 04:07 PM by Tommy - 2 replies (last reply by Greg at 09/21/2005 10:28 AM)Tommy from Lawrence, KS on 02/22/2005 04:07 PM
Before the trip, kept getting told that the Hermann bridge was death. It wasn't really that bad to me or my riding buddy. Perhaps I'm getting to be an experienced cyclist. Very cute city. Stayed in the city park with a bunch of friendly RVers. Never figured out how to pay a fee, so didn't. The Hermann bike shop is a very minimal affair. He had the tool I needed to borrow (lockring remover), though I was certainly more adept at using it. Don't expect major repair work.
JULIA from HERMANN on 09/04/2005 08:05 PM
THE REASON FOR THE MINIMAL SERVICE AT THE BIKE SHOP IS BECAUSE IT IS OWNED AND OPERATED BY OML ONE OR TWO MEN
Greg from KC on 09/21/2005 10:28 AM
Any bike rental shops in Hermann? May need to rent bikes for a couple of people for an afternoon of fun on the Katy Trail on Friday Sept. 30th. Price? Contact? We will be doing a little party/happy hour ride that afternoon/evening. We're staying the weekend so this will be our "opening" activities. Any info is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Greg (aka: "Coach" 20+ years of ragbrai)
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Photo opportunities
- + I will be biking the trail from Sedalia to St. Charles in late September. I'd like to know what would be some good things of interest to take pictures of, preferably close to the trail; e.g., old barn...
Discussion started 08/10/2005 08:58 PM by bikerLaura - 5 replies (last reply by Bill at 09/21/2005 05:19 AM)bikerLaura from Round Lake, IL on 08/10/2005 08:58 PM
I will be biking the trail from Sedalia to St. Charles in late September. I'd like to know what would be some good things of interest to take pictures of, preferably close to the trail; e.g., old barns, railroad stuff, old farm tools, old stores, etc.
bikerLaura from Round Lake, IL on 08/10/2005 08:58 PM
I will be biking the trail from Sedalia to St. Charles in late September. I'd like to know what would be some good things of interest to take pictures of, preferably close to the trail; e.g., old barns, railroad stuff, old farm tools, old stores, etc.
Ray (webmaster) on 08/11/2005 12:57 AM
Here are a few web pages to give you some ideas. The MKT Railroad History along the Trail webpage lists a lot of interesting photo subjects: old train cars, rehabbed depots, and more. Also check out the Points of Interest along the trail page - this is a hodgepodge of interesting places and sites, many of which are camera-worthy. And of course, you'll find no shortage of scenic landscapes, especially along the river.
Ray (webmaster) on 08/11/2005 12:57 AM
Here are a few web pages to give you some ideas. The MKT Railroad History along the Trail webpage lists a lot of interesting photo subjects: old train cars, rehabbed depots, and more. Also check out the Points of Interest along the trail page - this is a hodgepodge of interesting places and sites, many of which are camera-worthy. And of course, you'll find no shortage of scenic landscapes, especially along the river.
Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 08/11/2005 01:42 PM
The Katy Trail Guidebook has some pics of things along the trail that may be of interest such as the tile silo between New Franklin and Rocheport. Just west of Rocheport a mile or so on the north side of the trail is an old barn that sits back in a pasture that is surrounded by woods......it takes a pretty good pic.
I find the bluffs east of Rocheport along I-70 interesting. There are persimmon trees, bittersweet, indian paintbrush, etc. The bluffs are intereting also...I've a few pics of geese perched next to the petroglyphs.
There are plenty of photo ops.....just keep your eyes open. Enjoy!
Trek Biker from St. Joseph, MO on 08/11/2005 01:42 PM
The Katy Trail Guidebook has some pics of things along the trail that may be of interest such as the tile silo between New Franklin and Rocheport. Just west of Rocheport a mile or so on the north side of the trail is an old barn that sits back in a pasture that is surrounded by woods......it takes a pretty good pic.
I find the bluffs east of Rocheport along I-70 interesting. There are persimmon trees, bittersweet, indian paintbrush, etc. The bluffs are intereting also...I've a few pics of geese perched next to the petroglyphs.
There are plenty of photo ops.....just keep your eyes open. Enjoy!
frank from festus, mo on 08/13/2005 07:58 PM
check out the old turn table across from the katy roundhouse in franklin. it's on the site of an old train garage. it has chain link around it, but very much worth the time to look at it. have fun ridin the katy. frank
frank from festus, mo on 08/13/2005 07:58 PM
check out the old turn table across from the katy roundhouse in franklin. it's on the site of an old train garage. it has chain link around it, but very much worth the time to look at it. have fun ridin the katy. frank
Lisa from Peers, Missouri on 09/13/2005 10:41 AM
I would suggest stopping in Peers to check out the old general store. I believe it is the longest continuously operating store in Missouri. It is a small general store that has stayed in the family for over 100 years. The store has survived many floods and the old wood floors show it. In 1994 the flood waters were over 6 feet hight in the building - the store has pictures of all the recent floods. The local farmers are in there every morning for their coffee and to discuss their crops, weather, etc. Just a really quaint little place. Peers is so small that it isn't on all the trail maps - it is between Treloar and Marthasville.
Lisa from Peers, Missouri on 09/13/2005 10:41 AM
I would suggest stopping in Peers to check out the old general store. I believe it is the longest continuously operating store in Missouri. It is a small general store that has stayed in the family for over 100 years. The store has survived many floods and the old wood floors show it. In 1994 the flood waters were over 6 feet hight in the building - the store has pictures of all the recent floods. The local farmers are in there every morning for their coffee and to discuss their crops, weather, etc. Just a really quaint little place. Peers is so small that it isn't on all the trail maps - it is between Treloar and Marthasville.
Bill from Jefferson City on 09/21/2005 05:19 AM
At Rocheport,the KATY railroad tunnel,bluffs, and pictographs discussed in William Least-Heat Moon's book "River Horse" and the river view from the bluff-top winery property "A" frame can each give photo opportunities. Also like the "pierced rock" near McBaine, Carnahan Point where the river and trail make a big bend near Claysville, and the spur to the Noren Conservation Access for good shots of a river view of the Mo. State Capitol.
Bill from Jefferson City on 09/21/2005 05:19 AM
At Rocheport,the KATY railroad tunnel,bluffs, and pictographs discussed in William Least-Heat Moon's book "River Horse" and the river view from the bluff-top winery property "A" frame can each give photo opportunities. Also like the "pierced rock" near McBaine, Carnahan Point where the river and trail make a big bend near Claysville, and the spur to the Noren Conservation Access for good shots of a river view of the Mo. State Capitol.
Clifton City water
- + Last time I was through Clifton City, the trailhead had no running water. Was wondering if perhaps that has changed or if anyone knows if there's a Casey's Store or anything close to get water if nee...
Discussion started 09/19/2005 05:01 PM by margie - 0 repliesmargie on 09/19/2005 05:01 PM
Last time I was through Clifton City, the trailhead had no running water. Was wondering if perhaps that has changed or if anyone knows if there's a Casey's Store or anything close to get water if needed.
handcycles on the katy trail?
- + does anyone ever see or do any handcycling on the katy trail?, i was curious because i just ordered my first hand cycle, and would love 2 hit the trail, if anyone has any info on this hit me up, thanx...
Discussion started 09/16/2005 02:23 PM by andrew - 1 reply (last reply by Ray (webmaster) at 09/19/2005 12:31 PM)andrew from villa ridge on 09/16/2005 02:23 PM
does anyone ever see or do any handcycling on the katy trail?, i was curious because i just ordered my first hand cycle, and would love 2 hit the trail, if anyone has any info on this hit me up, thanx!!!
Ray (webmaster) on 09/19/2005 12:31 PM
You might want to talk to the guys at
Katy Bike Rental in Defiance (mile 59). I believe they have some handcycles for rent; they might be tuned in to how often these machines show up on the trail.
Maryland Yards (St Charles)
- + MY HUSBAND,CHLDREN & I BIKED THE KATY TRAIL IN ST CHARLES. WE FOUND A WONDERFUL RESTAURANT, MARYLAND YARDS. IT'S IN THE OLD WATERWORKS BUILDING. YOU CAN SEE IT FROM THE TRAIL. THAT'S HOW WE HAPPENED ...
Discussion started 09/17/2005 11:28 PM by jenny - 0 repliesjenny from webster groves on 09/17/2005 11:28 PM
MY HUSBAND,CHLDREN & I BIKED THE KATY TRAIL IN ST CHARLES. WE FOUND A WONDERFUL RESTAURANT, MARYLAND YARDS. IT'S IN THE OLD WATERWORKS BUILDING. YOU CAN SEE IT FROM THE TRAIL. THAT'S HOW WE HAPPENED ACROSS IT. THE SERVERS WERE WONDERFUL, ESPECIALLY BECKY. I REMEMBERED HER NAME BECAUSE IT'S THE SAME AS MY SISTERS. THE FOOD WAS GREAT AND THE PRICES VERY REASONABLE. WE WILL BE BACK. I JUST WANTED TO SPREAD THE WORD ON THIS HIDDEN JEWEL.
Hartsburg - Dotty's Cafe - Local Bike Shop
- + WOW! This is a great little place. We had Mushroom Burgers at Dotty's and the greatest peach cobbler anywhere. They filler our water bottles brought us pitchers of icewater for our hydration packs an...
Discussion started 07/09/2005 11:31 AM by Ted B. - 1 reply (last reply by mike rodemeyer at 09/14/2005 05:15 PM)Ted B. from Kansas City, KS. on 07/09/2005 11:31 AM
WOW! This is a great little place. We had Mushroom Burgers at Dotty's and the greatest peach cobbler anywhere. They filler our water bottles brought us pitchers of icewater for our hydration packs and basically treated us like royalty. This is a great place to stop. The local bike shop operator has a bit of a british accent and was actually fun to talk to. The shop had just about anything you'd need. Hartsburg helped make our Illinois to Kansas Ride a great one. Read all about the ride at
http://www.techkc.com/TrainingTimes/July%202005/tttjuly1.htm
Ted B. from Kansas City, KS. on 07/09/2005 11:31 AM
WOW! This is a great little place. We had Mushroom Burgers at Dotty's and the greatest peach cobbler anywhere. They filler our water bottles brought us pitchers of icewater for our hydration packs and basically treated us like royalty. This is a great place to stop. The local bike shop operator has a bit of a british accent and was actually fun to talk to. The shop had just about anything you'd need. Hartsburg helped make our Illinois to Kansas Ride a great one. Read all about the ride at
http://www.techkc.com/TrainingTimes/July%202005/tttjuly1.htm
mike rodemeyer from Hartsburg, MO on 09/14/2005 05:15 PM
Marc Alchorn has more than a little bit of a British accet; he's a Brit all the way and we love him. He can build you a bike, make you a smoothie or just entertain you all day long with his rather droll wit. We count him as a "local treasure". At least he can speak English, others of us can't. We really try to make your visit a happy one.
mike rodemeyer from Hartsburg, MO on 09/14/2005 05:15 PM
Marc Alchorn has more than a little bit of a British accet; he's a Brit all the way and we love him. He can build you a bike, make you a smoothie or just entertain you all day long with his rather droll wit. We count him as a "local treasure". At least he can speak English, others of us can't. We really try to make your visit a happy one.
Peers Store (Peers)
- + My Husband and I stayed at here and it was just perfect. The owner was so nice as was the small town hospitality. Can't beat it for the price and the breakfast sandwiches are the best. Thanks Barb!
Discussion started 09/12/2005 10:13 PM by Bill and Kim - 0 repliesBill and Kim from St. Charles on 09/12/2005 10:13 PM
My Husband and I stayed at here and it was just perfect. The owner was so nice as was the small town hospitality. Can't beat it for the price and the breakfast sandwiches are the best. Thanks Barb!
Bill and Kim from St. Charles on 09/12/2005 10:13 PM
My Husband and I stayed at here and it was just perfect. The owner was so nice as was the small town hospitality. Can't beat it for the price and the breakfast sandwiches are the best. Thanks Barb!
Katfish Katy's (Huntsdale) WHAT A PLACE!!
- + Just got back from a weekend float down the mighty MO., and wanted to say thank you for the hospitality at your campsite.
The takeout ramp was more than expected and the c store and HOT showers w...
Discussion started 09/12/2005 12:07 PM by Jeff K - 0 repliesJeff K from South Howard County on 09/12/2005 12:07 PM
Just got back from a weekend float down the mighty MO., and wanted to say thank you for the hospitality at your campsite.
The takeout ramp was more than expected and the c store and HOT showers were a real treat. Our whole gang were very happy with the shaded CLEAN campgrounds, and runnging water at the site was a real plus.
Thanks again,
Jeff
P.S. Go Texas A&M!!!!
Jeff K from South Howard County on 09/12/2005 12:07 PM
Just got back from a weekend float down the mighty MO., and wanted to say thank you for the hospitality at your campsite.
The takeout ramp was more than expected and the c store and HOT showers were a real treat. Our whole gang were very happy with the shaded CLEAN campgrounds, and runnging water at the site was a real plus.
Thanks again,
Jeff
P.S. Go Texas A&M!!!!
Trail Safety
- + I would like to do the trail and wonder if it is safe for two females do it on their own.
Discussion started 08/05/2005 09:52 AM by B - 6 replies (last reply by margie at 09/10/2005 11:41 PM)B from Olathe, KS on 08/05/2005 09:52 AM
I would like to do the trail and wonder if it is safe for two females do it on their own.
John from Jefferson City on 08/05/2005 10:54 AM
I would opine 'yes'. Trained Katy Trail Volunteer Trail watchers ride the trail and help those who experience trouble (I am one). Cell phone service is available except under some clifts. Be prepared, carry water, snack food, tire and tube repairs and a pump.
Ray (webmaster) on 08/11/2005 01:15 AM
If crime is your concern... The only real "crime against persons" type incident that I've heard of was a guy who was relieved of his wallet somewhere on the trail in St Charles around 9 o'clock at night. This was back in June, I think. A couple things I will point about about this incident: it occured after dark, when the trail is officially closed. I don't know exactly where it occurred, but I would bet it was near downtown St Charles, where many people walk on the trail to get between their cars and the Main Street bars and restaurants, not to mention the casino.
I honestly believe your biggest threat when riding a bike, is automotive traffic. And that's one thing you don't have to worry about on the Katy Trail (other than the occasional road crossing).
Nails on 09/02/2005 12:38 PM
Statistically, I'd wager you're in more danger driving to the trail than using it.
Nancy from Kirkwood on 09/10/2005 07:34 AM
Stay out of Defiance. Can be bad.
Ray (webmaster) on 09/10/2005 07:05 PM
Have you heard of any incidents or felt threatened in any way in Defiance? I've never actually heard of anything bad happening there. Yes, the Harley guys do hang out there. But I've had beers at Terry & Kathy's on a couple of occasions, and have eaten dinner at Dave & Jaquie's, and never felt threatened nor even got any odd looks, even though I was dressed as a cyclist and most everyone else was in leather jackets. The attitude that I picked up on was a "do your own thing, live and let live" sort of feeling. I'm sure there are obnoxious drunks sometimes, but you'll find that at any bar in any town.
If you pass through Defiance and feel intimidated by the Harley crowd, just skip the bars there - nobody will bother you, or even notice you passing by. But be sure to visit Katy Bike Rentals, which backs up to the trail. They have snacks and drinks there. The proprietors, Todd & George, are a couple of the nicest guys you'll meet anywhere along the trail.
margie on 09/10/2005 11:41 PM
I've done it alone in 2003 (female and 50) and last year with my sister. Have never experienced any trouble what so ever besides an occasional flat tire. If you're doing it in the fall, you'll meet LOTS of nice bikers doing the same thing! Funny thing last year, we met bikers from quite a few assorted states doing the entire trail, but not a single MO biker (besides us).