Katy Trail Bed and Bikefest
Kevin from Washington, DC on 10/08/2024 01:15 PM:
This B&B is literally right on the trail! My room was quiet and clean with a comfortable bed. Rocheport is a very picturesque town, but there are not a lot of dining options, so the frozen pizza for sale in the freezer was a lifesaver (and delicious!)
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Anne the Adventurer from Connecticut on 09/09/2023 08:44 PM:
Fantastic place! Impeccably clean and well appointed. Highly recommend. Cute town, too!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Anne the Adventurer from Connecticut on 09/09/2023 08:44 PM:
Fantastic place! Impeccably clean and well appointed. Highly recommend. Cute town, too!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Gary and his Stumpjumper from KCMO on 05/22/2023 05:03 PM:
Wanted to post so there would be something from 2023: I agree with everything RJ Rider says below. Very comfortable place to stay, and they had a shed for bike storage. Walking distance to our favorite places to eat.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
RJR Rider from Ballwin, MO (St. Louis County) on 05/22/2022 03:43 PM:
Perfect setting steps from the Katy. My wife and I were riding full length. I thought it was an awesome place, house, and property. More importantly, my wife loved it-- clean, thoughtfully decorated and appointed, super soft sheets, stepped in to blasting A/C from hot day on trail, nice shower, laundry. Would go back even if not riding Katy.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Bill and Patti Oct 2021 from Markle, IN on 10/11/2021 10:16 PM:
We had a wonderful stay at Katy Trail Bed and Bikefest. The directions we were sent from our hosts made it easy to check in and out. We stayed in the Attic Room, and the night we were there, there was only one other guest in the house. It almost seemed like we had the place to ourselves as the other person left before we were even up in the morning. The room was furnished nicely and the kitchen was well stocked. We stopped for dinner in Booneville, as we knew that not much would be open on a Monday in Rocheport. There were sausage biscuits in the freezer that we could microwave in the morning, and there were several dozen eggs in the refrigerator. There was pop in the refrigerator and pizza in the freezer for purchase. We opted to boil eggs for breakfast and boiled two extra to take on the trail. There were also muffins and oatmeal. The B&B had laundry facilities, which we took advantage of. There was a shed for bike storage. We had a little issue fitting our tandem, but it worked out. The location was perfect. It was right on the trail. Definitely would stay there again.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
J&B from Houston on 04/21/2019 07:58 PM:
We stayed one night at the Katy Bed and Bikefest and absolutely loved it. We had the whole cottage to ourselves - so that was an extra treat for us. The main house is super comfortable and decorated perfectly. The kitchen is well equipped and everything is self service (which I totally liked). There are plenty of snacks, breakfast grab and go foods, and drinks provided. We even did our laundry. The owner, Brett, sent an email with all the directions to enter the home and was close by if we needed anything. The city of Rocheport is very charming and the people we met while we were there were super friendly. We knew ahead of time that most businesses closed early, so we made sure we arrived in plenty of time to eat an early dinner. (Meriwether’s cafe was excellent). We loved our stay at the Katy Bed and Bikefest...only wish we were staying longer.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
JoAnn from Oregon on 09/25/2018 05:27 PM:
Stayed in the Katy View room. The house is right next to the trail. Kitchen was great to have available. We bought food at a grocery store in the morning, so we appreciate having a place to cook. Since we eat a whole plant based diet most of the provisions were not useful to us, but we enjoyed the fruit. Highly recommend!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Amy from St Louis on 06/24/2018 06:37 PM:
The attic room is wonderful with it's private bathroom and it is spacious. The house was full but quiet. Plenty of food for breakfast and even frozen pizza if you didn't want to get back out. The only issue we had was the smoke detector going off all night. The inn keeper was super helpful in coming to help, but unfortunately it continued throughout the night. It was a total fluke. There is a place for a fire, chairs for lounging,and a couple of places to eat within walking distance.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Scott Vicars from St. Peters, MO on 11/08/2017 04:32 AM:
Great place to stay. We stayed in the “Biker’s Bungalow.” Very nice, clean, well-appointed room. Comfy beds. Lots of snacks to munch on. Rocheport is quaint, but be aware NOTHING is open on Mondays or Tuesdays this time of year (November). You can’t even get pizza delivery. Thankfully, Ken thinks of everything! He had frozen pizzas and sodas for sale in the common kitchen area. After 70+ cold miles on a bike, Digiorno pizza never tasted so good! He has a good stock of stuff for breakfast too: yoghurt, cereal, milk, eggs, fruit, bread, muffins, oatmeal, etc. There’s even a shed with cables and locks to secure your bikes at night. Everything is “self-service,” even gaining access to the rooms, so you have lots of privacy. Will stay again, next time I’m in Rocheport.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
SVW from Ft Myers, FL on 09/30/2017 07:18 PM:
LOVED this place! Stayed in the Attic room this summer with my husband and two year old. The corner tub was awesome after a day on the trail and they even had some children's DVDs for the little one! We meet the innkeeper and the owner and both were so friendly and welcoming. It was very clean. We liked the serve yourself breakfast because we could grab and go get back on the trail. It was really excellent being right on the trail and Rocheport was a really cute town. There was a little playground right near this B&B and we walked back across the bridge to a neat little preserve with great views of the river. My husband even jumped off the bridge into the river with the locals! This place and this town made our hearts really full on our trip on the trail.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
MJ from Maryland Heights,MO on 06/11/2017 05:19 PM:
I had no problem making reservations by contacting the owner via email. My husband and I stayed here our first night on the trail. We had the Katy View room. The whole place is charming, clean and comfortable. It's a make your own breakfast place and that was no problem. Helped us get an early start on the trail. Dinner at Mulberry for pizza was outstanding!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Rika on 04/19/2017 09:07 AM:
We would have stayed here if anyone would answer the phone (tried 2 different numbers that are listed). Called another B&B in Rocheport but it cost $40 more. I mentioned that I tried to reach the folks at Katy Trail B&B and he laughed that they are impossible to reach. Seems like a funny way to run a business.
Anonymous on 04/20/2017 09:07 PM:
Rika, cycling to any new location is a risk especially on the KT. Having backup plans usually works even though you may pay a little more. Many businesses on the KT are very independent. Getting irritated when someone is not available or cannot accommodate you is not in the true spirit of letting go and enjoying the freeness of riding a bicycle. If you are interested in just going from restaurant to restaurant and b&b and wineries, take a car.
Anon on 05/01/2017 08:34 AM:
It's best to have advance reservations for lodging if you require lodging along the Katy Trail. The key word here is advance. Inn Keepers may take the opportunity to leave their property for some reason or other if they are not expecting an arrival. Cell phone service in Rocheport is spotty and generally poor so this can be an unreliable way to contact an inn keeper who is on the one side of their property where they have no bars of reception. Just going with the flow and chancing room availability is a good way to end up sleeping on a park bench.
Sarah from Hartsburg on 05/01/2017 09:15 AM:
This is good advice... many of the bnb keepers work really hard to give you a good experience... but most of us work full time jobs outside of the home or have kids/grandkids we are busy with... Calling ahead ... most of us will work with you or if we have no vacancy... refer you someplace that does.
T BONE WALKER from CHAMPAIGN IL on 05/25/2017 01:02 PM:
NOT EVERYONE WANTS TO RIDE 35 PLUS MILES A DAY. I HAVE HAD GOOD
TO GREAT RESPONSES FROM MANY HOTELS B AND B . STARTING IN
BOONEVILLE PARKING AT DEPOT AND RIDING TO ROCHEPORT , SLEEP
SCHOOL HOUSE, RIDING TO HARTSBURG , SLEEP AT GLODE, RIDE TO
JEFF CITY, SLEEP ,CLIFF MANOR, ONE LONGER RIDE TO RHINELAND, SLEEP DOLL HOUSE, RIDE TO TRELOAR, SLEEP CYCLERS ROOST,RIDE
TO AUGUSTA GET SHIT FACED AND RIDE TO DEFIANCE SLEEP PARSONS
HOUSE. RIDE TO SAINT CHARLES ,SLEEP AT COMFORT INN OR FAIRFIELD
INN OR BEST WESTERN, AND HAVE A LA CART SHUTTLE TAKE YOU
BACK TO BOONEVILLE AT 8 AM SUNDAY MORNING. BE IN BOONEVILLE
BEFORE NOON , 5 HOUR DRIVE HOME. AVERAGE RIDE 22 MILE A DAY.
THIS CAN BE DONE FOR LESS THAN 1500 DOLLAR IF YOU DRINK A LOT
OF WINE, VERSES SLEEPING CHEAP EATING CHEAP AND RIDING 35 MILES A DAY FOR 2500 FOR TWO PEOPLE. OH , WHY DIDNT WE STAY
IN AUGUSTA, TWO NIGHT MINIMUM AT 200 A NIGHT OR WOULDNT EVEN ANSWER THE FREAKIN PHONE.. STILL TRYING TO BOOK THIS
FOR MID OCTOBER. WITH THE GREAT RESPONSES FROM GLOBE,DOLL
HOUSE, CYCLERS ROOST AND PARSONS. THIS SHOULD BE A GREAT TRIP. HECK, NICK SAID HE WOULD MAKE US BREAKFAST IF WE ARE
NICE TO HIM, I SAID WE WILL BRING THE WINE THE NIGHT BEFORE
GREAT PEOPLE MAKE GREAT HOSTS. WE ARE IN OUR LATE 60`S AND
50 PERCENT OF THE RIDERS HAVE BIG MONEY AND DONT WANT TO
RIDE 35 PLUS MILES A DAY, AND EAT OUT OF SHACK. OH THERE WAS
A DAY WE COULD OUT RIDE, CANOE, SKI, HIKE, MOUNTAIN CLIMB,MOST BUT THOSE DAYS ARE GONE. THINK I WILL BUY A SHUTTLE SERVICE/ GUIDE BUSINESS NEXT YEAR.JUST FOR US OLD
FARTS.
.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Tom Wheaton from Thornton CO on 10/01/2016 09:55 PM:
Stayed here on Tues 27 Sep on a midweek ride of the trail west to east. I came in from Sedalia - the long ride.
The main yellow guest house was mine alone for the evening, and because of the time of week and season I gathered I was the only guest in the complex. At no time did I ever have contact with a human being or customer service person during my entire KTB&B experience. But... the entry numbers and information provided in my reservation worked.
The cottage is clean, well-kept and comfortable. It's more a cottage atmosphere; cute, but perhaps not the kind of quaint one may expect of a B&B.
Good points: An available laundry to do riding clothes. Good stock of breakfast snack type foods. A fresh unwrapped bundle of bananas were waiting for me on the counter. Everything "worked" according to the printed reservation confirmation. I had no ugly surprises or difficulty upon check-in.
Bring your own drinks if you want something beyond water or coffee (Coke/Spirte for sale in refer for 50 cents). If you need Gatorade or other beverages, there's no place around the compound to purchase (stores, etc.). And I didn't SEE an open evening eating establishment (may have been there) - but I had a friend from Columbia meeting me for dinner that evening anyway.
I was mildly concerned with bike (and bike trailer) security. There was no clearly visible and secure bike storage (though it may exist). The cottage is virtually beside the trail, and unsecured bikes could be a target. I locked the bike and left it outside with no problem encountered.
There is ZERO television or WiFi access. The tv was not an issue even though the 'cable' was composed of a handful of crappy channels. I was biking and not there for TV. However, it would have been nice to communicate (via web) with outside folks, and be able to upload my trip photos for friends to see. Without a WiFi, send email/msgs to let folks know I arrived safely, and it was impossible to pass on the news of the day. Small stuff, but internet access would be appreciated. BTW, Rochefort sits in a deep hollow at the base of the cliffs, so there is almost no cellphone service to boot. [And it would be a courtesy to The Guests to take down the wall handbill mocking them for even considering a need for WiFi. I didn't think it was funny or needed, but at least now I know.]
The bed was comfortable. I used the washer/dryer. A good but not great shower, and they provided toiletries/bathing sundries (unlike other B&B along the trail). Everything was good overall.
I wish I had a better appetite on the departure morning for I hardly touched the snacks/yogurt, eggs., etc. Wish you had some bacon or breakfast meat (w cheese/butter for prep?) to go with the abundance of eggs that were provided. Food? All good stuff and you can eat your fill.
OVERALL, I enjoyed my stay. Very pleasant. This was my first Katy Trail excursion. When I ride again I will select the KTB&B. It was as good, maybe even better than expected. Give it 3.5 out of 5. A little above average.
Anonymous on 10/04/2016 06:08 AM:
Tom I believe the owner is a live off the land, go unplugged type of guy. That would answer some of your comments.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Keith & Mary Jansen from Fouke, AR on 06/01/2016 11:49 AM:
We stayed at the Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rockeport on May 22, 2016. The house was great, our bed was comfortable, had a great night sleep. We had to share the bathroom with one other couple which was not a big deal. The fridge was stock with lots of great breakfast food for us. They even had cokes & frozen pizza you could buy at a reasonable price (pizza $5 & cokes .50).
I guess the only complaint I have is their cancellation policy which seems a bit extreme, because even if you call on the 14th day they still charge your credit card and then charge you a cancellation fee, so not only do they get one night stays from you, but they charge you extra for not even staying there.
Anonymous on 06/01/2016 01:28 PM:
That Go Fund Me after the big flood must not have panned out so well if they're charging people a premium who don't even stay there. I'm sure they've a very reasonable sad story for doing so.
Anonymous on 06/01/2016 06:54 PM:
I believe he is the mayor of Rocheport too. Can't complain there either.
anon from Rocheport on 06/12/2016 02:56 PM:
He hasn't been Mayor of Rocheport for ten years or so and only served a few years then. However, the City would have no say in his pricing and cancellation policy arrangements.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Jim + Carole Onufrak from Dallas on 10/23/2015 10:12 AM:
As newbies to trail riding we spent a wonderful night, Oct 11th in the Katy view room. Great stay with snacks in the fridge. We shared the bathroom on the 1st floor (no problem),which also had a washer and drier to use. Met the landlord who happens to be the author of "Katy Trail Guide Book" which helped us greatly on planning our first Bike trail trip.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Hollis Price from Jones, OK on 10/01/2015 07:40 PM:
Four of us stayed in the boxcar. What a great place. It has been beautifully renovated. Our hosts stocked the kitchen with great breakfast food as well as snacks. We all enjoyed our stay there.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Jessica from Mission, KS on 07/22/2015 10:39 AM:
We stayed at this great B&B in late May for a weekend. The house was clean, delightful, and had a fully stocked kitchen for breakfast and snacks for your ride. The owners were pleasant to work with too. We traveled with our 16 month old and is a great location with a park just across the street for her to play at. Very few B&B allow children, so we're thankful for their accommodations. We defiantly recommend this place and would stay there again.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Anonymous on 05/24/2015 09:55 PM:
I stayed here last week, and it was great. The owners are really nice and the prices are really great. Great rooms, great shower, laundry machine, and a stocked kitchen. I don't know what more you could ask for. Highly recommended.
Donna from Shawnee, KS on 05/26/2015 07:56 AM:
Thx for posting this. They had a big flood earlier this year and had to gut the place. I've got reservations in two weeks and planned to call this week to make sure they're up and running. Sounds like they are!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Heather from Columbia, MO on 05/24/2015 10:16 AM:
We stayed at the cottage house for the Saturday of this year's Pedaler's Jamboree (May 23, 2015), and I'm happy to report that not only is it fully restored after the water damage in the winter, but it was a fantastic place to stay.
This was our first visit, although it certainly won't be the last, and we were continually pleasantly surprised. We (myself, my husband, and our 18 month old daughter) did the Columbia - Rocheport leg of Pedaler's along with two of our cousins and their 18 month old. We had reservations at the B&B, and they planned to drive back to Columbia that night.
It is hard to describe how nice it is to be staying at a B&B that not only is family-friendly, but also terrifically accommodating and understanding of little ones' needs. We arrived early, before the 4 pm check-in, and asked if we could hang out with the kids, since they needed their naps. They very graciously cleaned and reset the attic room we had reserved early, and let all of us relax in the cottage while the kids took their naps. Their kitchen was well-stocked, and it was great to not have to worry about the food we brought going bad, or needing to heat up stuff for the kids, since the kitchen was fully functional, with a refrigerator, oven, and microwave. We also loved the typical B&B experience of meeting the neighbors - there were also guests in the two downstairs rooms, as well as the Carriage House and the Box Car. They all had a great bonfire Saturday night that was very convivial indeed.
If you're looking for a family-friendly place that's really great with kids, and willing to go the extra mile, look no further! We will definitely be back, and look forward to staying in the box car and the carriage house!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest destroyed/rebuilding
Ray (webmaster) on 01/25/2015 05:49 AM:
The Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport was recently destroyed by severe water damage. This B&B is owned by Brett Dufur, author of the Katy Trail Guidebook, and his wife Tawnee. They have set up a GoFundMe to help fund reconstruction. Depending on how much you donate, Brett will give you future canoe trips, lodging, etc.
http://www.gofundme.com/katytrail
Good luck to the Dufurs!
Anonymous on 01/25/2015 11:30 AM:
No insurance in the winter and water lines with water in them. Looks like they were sitting at the table ready to gamble. Lost and now are wanting someone else to fund them. The American way I guess.
Cathy from Jefferson City on 01/25/2015 12:28 PM:
I'll be donating. My husband and I own 3 old buildings and understand the insurance problems: it is very hard to insure old buildings and companies have all kinds of hoops we have to jump through. Water damage from busted pipes is a constant threat. My family stayed at this B & B in 2009 and loved it. Thanks to the owners for being willing to work to preserve a quaint old structure that adds character to Rocheport and the Katy Trail. I hope many other trail users will support this. I'll share the info. Best wishes to Brett and everyone working to bring this gem back on-line for future Katy Trail riders.
Anonoh on 01/26/2015 10:06 AM:
I believe Brett had the place up for sale in the last few years. Crowdfunding is popular if we can own something like timeshares?
Donna from Kansas City, MO on 01/26/2015 12:18 PM:
Sorry to hear about this. He still seems to be taking reservations for the season -- I just got a confirmation for early June. Wonder if I should make an alternate plan?
RD from ozarks on 01/27/2015 07:40 PM:
how about some volunteer workdays?
sharonbikes from Kansas City on 01/28/2015 07:34 AM:
We will be donating and would be happy to come and help with a volunteer work day!
School House B&B Innkeeper from Rocheport on 03/06/2015 07:55 PM:
We're sorry for our neighbor's misfortune, but if cyclists have a Spring trip planned and are looking for alternative lodging before their B&B is ready to reopen, our Dormitory House has 2 private rooms with private baths/multiple beds set up for the needs of Katy Trail cyclists. We wish the Dufurs a speedy reconstruction.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Melissa Pierson from Ozark, MO on 11/04/2014 05:51 PM:
BEST PLACE EVER!!! Stayed in box car. Our 4 kids (&us) loved everything about it! The house for breakfast was amazing too. Would recommend everything about it. Did a load of laundry for $2, very helpful. Box car sleeps 8, great for our fam of 6. Rocheport for sure our favorite town. Walk around the town, the homes are picturesque.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Diane from Giddings, TX on 10/01/2014 07:25 PM:
Six stayed here the end of September. We had the whole house to ourselves. Our "cook" arrived early and the cleaning lady was very nice and helpful, going out of her way to give directions and even helped unhook our trailer. We were able to wash our clothes and every thing was clean and organized. The garages for storing our bikes was great! Thank you, Tawnee! See you in two years!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Serena from Chicago on 07/10/2011 10:51 AM:
My sister and I stayed here on the Fourth of July. As everything in the city was closed, we really appreciated the sodas and goodies in the fridge. Fortunately we brought food so we were able to cook in the kitchen in the main house. The boxcar was such a cool place to stay, I highly recommend it for families. Overall, a great place to stay and a great location.
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 05/01/2012 03:06 PM:
Glad you had a great visit! The Katy Trail Boxcar Guesthouse has been a real hit! The AC cools that place down like a meatlocker even in the hottest days of July. Curious if you are coming back to Rocheport for another visit this summer? Check out our new Katy Trail Bed & Breakfast pics at www.katytrailbb.com. We've also got a Youtube on the Katy Trail Boxcar Guesthouse: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4-gjHcKp4s
Anonymous on 05/01/2012 06:57 PM:
Glad you found a couple of year old posts to brag about you business over. Can't beat free and timely advertising.
Cathy from Jefferson City on 05/01/2012 11:15 PM:
For crying out loud stop with the negative doo doo would you? It's fine to criticize but don' t be so crummy about it.
Bret, when my family stayed at your B and B we loved it. I am thankful there are people like you and the other Katy Trail business owners willing to take risks and open places along the trail.
Nitpicker! from Beautiful down town Goldman, MO. on 05/02/2012 07:12 AM:
Yeah, what Cathy said, and ahh, "a couple of years" would be July 10 2013.
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 05/02/2012 09:23 AM:
I get Katy fever just like everyone else. Warm days on the Katy Trail bring out the trail lover in me just like everyone else and I start checking out the site more. If I'm on bikekatytrail.com and see a compliment I do what my Mom taught me - I say Thank you. Easy as that. That's what forums are for.
Jennie and Larry from St. Louis, MO on 08/06/2012 09:52 AM:
Stayed in the Boxcar - LOVED it. Thank you!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Clayton, Denise, Frank, Mickie from Archie on 05/23/2011 09:14 PM:
This was beyond any doubt the cleanest place I have ever stayed at. My group agrees. It was a real show room. We had the main house to our selves and enjoyed the privacy. It was our first shot at being @ a non-hosted B&B. The pizza was very good and convenient (in the fridg) and breakfast was no issue. All @ arms reach. Denise and I thoroughly enjoyed the Attic room. I did not know a hot bath could feel that good. We would not hesitate to stay again.
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 05/01/2012 03:03 PM:
Glad to hear you enjoyed your stay at Rocheport's Katy Trail Bed & Breakfast! A lot of our guests like the low-key, comfortable set up of our place and enjoy being able to eat, come and go as they please. You should check out the Katy Trail Boxcar Guesthouse on your next trip - I think it would be just right for your sized group! See you on the Katy Trail!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Anonymous from Lakeside, Ohio on 09/26/2011 08:48 PM:
Four of us (two couples) stayed in the Tree House. Great location (right on the trail). Lots of choices for making our own breakfast. Would stay here again. This would be a good place for a group to stay as it would probably accommodate 8-10 people.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Dale & Leslie from Joplin, MO on 06/20/2011 01:30 PM:
We stayed here in the house in mid-October of 2010 and found the accommodations very charming. And you can't beat the location. We are pleased that you are still open, as we plan to come back.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Mark & Lisa from Paducah KY on 05/31/2011 08:51 AM:
We stayed one night in the home. It was absolutely adorable! Very clean and lots of goodies for breakfast. It is very convenient; right on the trail. We will definitely stay here on our next trip!!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport
Katy Trail B&B from Rocheport on 03/27/2011 10:00 AM:
We hope you will join us this season, and check out the Katy Boxcar! We no longer have a hot tub, but do offer a full continental breakfast to give you an early boost on your ride!
Nelda Liebig from Gardner KS on 05/20/2011 11:17 AM:
Hello! I really enjoyed staying at your Bed and Bikefest a few years ago. A friend and I plan to ride the trail this fall and stay with you. How is early October on the trail? Tell me aboutthe boxcar. Thanks
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest (Rocheport)
dayhiker from LeClaire, IA on 04/02/2010 08:18 AM:
This is a nice place, very convenient and would be particularly good for families with small children as there are swings and there is a children's park next door. The hot tub is out of commission and doesn't look as if it will be operating soon.
Going Green at Rocheport's Katy Boxcar
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 03/24/2009 01:14 PM:
Who would have thought that a 70-year-old boxcar would ever be the recipient of a "green" renovation! As we restore the Katy Boxcar into the Katy Boxcar Guesthouse at the Katy Trail B&B, we're making it as eco-friendly as possible. One day we're working with blow in cellulose insulation and paperless sheet rock, the next we're uncovering the original 2 inch thick walnut flooring and working with locally sourced materials. Last week I was dismantling a 65-year-old greenhouse in St. Louis in 35 degree weather to reuse the cypress tongue and groove decking, which will become the new, weather-tight exterior walls on the boxcar... What a journey... It's not every day you get to bring a boxcar back to life! Going green makes sense, and it will also ensure that your stay is as comfortable as can be. So if you pass by the Katy Trail B&B in Rocheport, and you see a few tarps flapping on the Katy Boxcar, please help spread the word that we're making sure it's around for another 70 years! When it's done later this season, it will have 3 spacious beds, its own bathroom with tub/shower combo, and a small kitchenette, and plenty of comfortable space to relax after a BBQ or hot tubing. So whether you are a railroad buff, have a Thomas-the-Tank-Engine-crazy kid (like me!), or just love the Katy Trail, check it out! It's going to be a great place to enjoy Rocheport. All renovations will be complete in time for your summer adventures. See you on the trail!
Anonymous from Prairie Village on 08/02/2009 10:53 PM:
I think that using the old boxcar is awsome! My daughter just loves the
Gertrude Chandler Warner books "The Boxcar Children". That will be a
fun surprise for her to someday stay in a rel boxcar!
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 02/17/2010 10:50 AM:
The Katy Boxcar came out nicer than we expected. It is a cozy space, and everyone says it feels a lot larger on the inside than they expected (for example, a Boxcar has about double the space of a caboose...). We were able to refinish the old Boxcar floors while also including enough comfort and convenience with a top notch shower / restroom that it is definitely part history and part "just what you would hope for." The lofts seem to have a timeless draw for both kids (of course) and older generations too - there's something about being in a unique space like this, similar to cabins, where you just can't help but be in a good mood. We have added quite a few creature comforts to make this a great perch from which to enjoy Rocheport and the Katy Trail. Be sure to peek your head in and check it out next time you're in town, we're proud to show it off!
VERY convenient & VERY nice!!
The Campbell Clan from Branson, MO on 07/06/2009 05:15 PM:
Stayed here at the Carriage House, and it was GREAT!! Our party of 6 fit easily and it was very comfortable!! Spacious and cozy at the same time, if that's possible! Storage for bikes below in garage is really handy - nice feature. Hot tub was out of commission when we stayed, but could be GREAT for tired muscles!
Minor caveat: Self check-in is unique and handy, but MAKE SURE to remember code for keypad. Forgot to print off reservation and it was almost disasterous. That's MY fault, of course, but with self-checkin, owners aren't around and sometimes are hard to get by phone.
EXTRA NOTE: Co-owner Brett Dufur is author of THE Katy Trail Guidebook!! :-)
ktytrfan from Hannibal, Mo. on 07/06/2009 08:40 PM:
Where is the Carriage House located?
Stevo from Saint Louis, MO on 07/07/2009 02:25 PM:
Carriage House = Part of Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest B&B in Rocheport, MO.
Larry Campbell from Branson, MO on 07/08/2009 03:19 PM:
Yes - sorry I didn't make that clear. Go to Katy Trail Bed and Bikefest and the Carriage House is ONE of several choices/rooms they have available.
Nice!
coolabay from St. Louis on 03/30/2009 12:18 PM:
Stayed here last fall, and it was awesome. Garage available for bike storage and a hot tub available for relaxation. Literally feet from the trail. Good rates, too. I'll stay again this fall.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest (Rocheport)
K Reed from Ballwin, MO on 09/11/2008 10:25 PM:
Stayed here on our way thru on the Katy Trail. Very nice and clean place with hot tub, and washer and dryer. Yes this is not typical bed and breakfast, but if you read their website you would know that. We would consider going back with friends and rent the whole house for the weekend and do some biking.
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 10/13/2008 07:43 PM:
K Reed - Glad to hear you enjoyed your visit. The leaves are starting to turn real nice right now, so the hot tub has been getting extra thumbs up lately! We look forward to seeing you back in Rocheport soon!
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 03/18/2009 04:39 PM:
Spring has sprung in Rocheport! The daffodils and crocus are unfurling their petals, and the trail is hopping! The Katy Trail B&B is open for the season with many improvements our guests have been asking for. I just fired up the hot tub yesterday, and the grill is ready for your BBQ. Keep us in mind for your spring Rocheport adventures!
Katy Trail Pedal & Paddle Bike Tours
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 01/26/2009 11:13 AM:
Dates have been set for the week-long Katy Trail Pedal & Paddle Bike Tours that I am leading this year. Spring Trip: May 10 - 16th. Fall Trip: Sept 20 - 26th. There is still room available on both tours. We will be spending three of our nights at the Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest in Rocheport (www.katytrailbb.com), to minimize the need to pack/unpack and move luggage every day. We will be shuttled to our starting point several mornings in our 15-passenger van with bike racks. If you'd like to read more about the canoe/kayak float that is offered as an option on the rest day in Rocheport, please visit www.mighty-mo.com.
The Boxcar is Back @ the Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest (Rocheport)
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 01/16/2009 04:00 PM:
Hi all! The Boxcar is back! Our former guests will remember the cozy, inviting and surprisingly spacious Boxcar converted into a place to stay right on the Katy Trail in Rocheport. It has three beds, a kitchenette, full restroom and plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy! Rodney, the previous innkeeper, has moved back to his family farm in Kansas, allowing us the chance to once again offer the Boxcar as a place for friends and family to enjoy Rocheport and the Katy Trail. You can learn more at www.katytrailbb.com.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest (Rocheport)
BikeKaty from Olathe, KS on 04/10/2008 08:49 AM:
This is a great little B&B. The most affordable B&B in Rocheport and perfect for a one-night stay. Rocheport is one of my favorite towns on the trail. I'd highly recommend making Rocheport and overnight stop on your trip!
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 09/05/2008 08:13 PM:
BikeKaty, Glad to hear you had a wonderful time at our B&B! We've been down at the B&B all day gardening and adding bright red and yellow mums, and getting the hot tub all dialed in for some crisp fall nights. Keep us in mind for a fall getaway! Abigail's Restaurant, a real favorite, is only about three blocks away. (Save room for dessert!) Then saunter over next store to check out the great live music at the General Store (no cover charge). End the night back at the Katy Trail B&B in the hot tub watching the Big Dipper while you enjoy a glass of Norton wine from the local Les Bourgeois Winery.... Life is good!
Brett Dufur from Rocheprot on 01/16/2009 03:56 PM:
Thanks for your nice comments! The Katy Trail Bed & Breakfast will reopen in March for the season. Please keep us in mind as you make your spring Katy Trail adventure plans!
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest (Rocheport)
Anonymous on 09/20/2008 01:06 PM:
Our 2nd time to stay here. We spent 2 nights here a couple of years ago. We were dissappointed about no longer having a nice breakfast as the last time it was awesome! We were trapped by the floodwaters and they allowed us to stay over until we were able to make arrangements to get picked up. Ended up spending another night there.
Katy Trail Bed & Bikefest (Rocheport)
Bike 4 LIfe from Smithville, MO on 03/31/2008 10:49 AM:
My husband and I just biked through Rocheport on Friday, March 28, 2008. We stayed at the Katy Trail Bed and Bikefest. We stayed in the Attic room and really enjoyed ourselves. The downtown has a couple local hot spots you must see. The old General store has live music and food. There is a cookie store and a great local restaurant. Abigail’s. Yummy. We would defiantly stay in Rocheport again.
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 09/05/2008 08:17 PM:
Bike4Life, Glad you hear you had a refreshing and relaxing Rocheport Getaway. When you come back, there's a great hiking trail and overlook of the river you can get to by hiking off to the left of the old Rocheport Tunnel. There's a bird viewing blind w/ benches, too, which makes for a great place to watch the geese come and go on the wetlands there...
Doug from Bluffton on 09/06/2008 09:30 PM:
I am sure you would be welcomed. You would not have to go there defiantly. You probably saw that as soon as you hit "submit" didn't you?
Brett Dufur from Rocheport on 09/07/2008 03:56 PM:
Bike 4 LIfe, That hike beside the Rocheport Tunnel I mentioned takes you to a nice wetland cell that is full of water right now. You might consider bringing your fishing pole. I hear it's good fishing.