Reply to Walking the Katy Trail

In mid- to late October, I'd like to walk from St. Charles to about Pilot Grove, carrying very little--just walking and looking. I'm planning to make no plans, so I'd just find places to eat or to buy trail food or to sleep (not camp) as I meander along. Am I letting myself in for trouble? georgekastner@hotmail.com

Glw,
Good for you! I just finished walking from Clinton to McKittrick -- the same distance from St. Charles to Pilot Grove -- earlier this month.

I hate to tell you, but planning is important.

One thing you will run into is the need for consistent water. Lots of the trailheads don't have water and you have to either get it from one of the stores or bars along the trail. The problem with that can be that these stores aren't always open. The same with food. As for lodging, during October weekends, everything is pretty well booked in the Hermann area, I imagine. Once you leave the St. Charles area, the small town businesses keep somewhat irregular hours, especially during weekdays.

One way to get around this is to have a support crew. Will you have someone following you in a car or meeting you every few days? I know I am planning to do the last stretch of the trail in another month or two, and that is my strategy.

I am not trying to be a downer, and I had a ball during my walk, but you HAVE to do some planning. While the Katy is not in the middle of raw wilderness, you can't really just set out on foot and expect lots of options for food, water and lodging.

Having said all of that, have a great walk!