Katy Trail Home  The Katy Trail and Rock Island Trail Rock Island Trail Home

Where can I park for a multiday trip (doing both directions so start point isn't a deal breaker)


Go to Forum
Lew from Gaithersburg on 8/4/2020 5:54:59 AM:
I'm thinking about driving down either October this year or May next year to do the length back and forth but don't know where is safe to park and near enough to the trail heads.

 
John from O’Fallon, MO on 8/4/2020 8:44:52 PM:
I would start in St Charles and park by the casino and get a shuttle up to Machens. Check with Bike Stop Cafe..they will have good info for you!

 
Big B on 8/5/2020 7:44:52 PM:
I exchanged emails with the St. Charles visitors center. Their reply follows:

There is not an official overnight parking lot for vehicles for visitors using the Katy Trail starting in St. Charles -- most trail users park in the Lewis & Clark Boat House and Museum parking lot located right by the Katy Trail. Here’s a detailed Downtown St. Charles Map:

https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/stcharles/MM_Spring_merchants19_43417661-5b23-4100-a920-babc52dfff34.pdf

(you’ll see the parking lot located at the bottom of map by Lewis & Clark Boat House)

We just recommend that you notify our local City of Saint Charles Police Department with the make/model of your vehicle and the dates you will be parked in that lot – here’s their number: 636-949-3300. Lots of folks will do this and there is not a problem with doing so.

Enjoy your trip - we are starting tomorrow!

 
Anonymous on 8/6/2020 7:39:04 AM:
On the other end of the trail, Clinton and Sedalia are options. I've parked at the trailhead in Sedalia several times without issue.