Reply to Getting to the Machens Trailhead

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Reply to Getting to the Machens Trailhead

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Charlie from St. Louis on 8/19/2013 5:47:54 AM:

I'm planning an end-to-end trip starting in Machens. But it looks like there's no easy (or legal) access to the Machens trailhead from the road. Does anyone know how the Machens trailhead is usually accessed? Do cyclists usually skip this section of the trail? If so, is starting in St. Charles a "legit" complete Katy Trail ride?

Anonymous on 8/19/2013 8:46:43 AM:

Maybe Machens trailhead is accessed by bike.

Don from Ellisville on 8/19/2013 2:41:48 PM:

The Machens trailhead is best accessed by someone dropping you off. There is no parking at the trailhead or in Machens. To get to the trailhead, drive south on Machens Road out of Machens. Cross the railroad tracks and immediately turn left (do not continue straight, as the road becomes dirt/mud and it is difficult to turn around). Take the road on the left about 200 feet and the trailhead will be on your right, partially hidden by trees.

I do suggest that you do the St. Charles - Machens ride, because why go 200+ miles and not be able to say you did the WHOLE trail?

Ray (webmaster) on 8/19/2013 3:37:53 PM:

The only thing I would add is that Machens Road is very easy to miss. Heading north/east on 94, you'll pass miles and miles of corn and soybean fields, and then Machens Rd is a tiny little road with a few houses on it. These two or three houses apparently are the town of Machens. There is a road sign, but again it's easy to miss.

I'd search for Machens MO on Google maps. Be aware of which streets lead to Portage des Sioux. Assuming you're headed north/east on 94, start looking for Machens Rd on the right just after the roads that lead to Portage des Sioux on the left.

Like Don said, you'll need to get dropped off there, since there is no parking. After you cross the railroad tracks, the lonely little gravel road heading to the left will take you right there.

A sign says "No Katy Trail Access" but I think they're just trying to prevent people from parking there. My wife dropped off my son and me there for our latest ride and it worked just fine.

Charlie from St. Louis on 8/19/2013 5:32:50 PM:

I rode out there a couple weeks ago and there was a train parked on the tracks at Machens Road. So I don't think I'll have anyone drive back there for fear a train would come by, stop, and pin their car back there (I didn't see any alternate route out). I appreciate the notes and I'll try to start from Machens as planned. Thanks.

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