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SM from Independence MO on 7/19/2021 12:32:41 PM:
Planning to ride the trail in September; from Pleasant Hill to St Charles; or the other way around. Does the elevation change make a difference in the overall ride -- should we start in PHill and go east; or start east side and ride back west? thanks

 
Bill in Houston from Houston on 7/19/2021 3:11:02 PM:
Wind makes a bigger difference. For that reason, people usually ride West to east.

 
Anonymous on 7/19/2021 7:16:33 PM:
Wind can make a difference if is is blowing. The uphill grade between Boonville and Pilot Grove and between Clifton City and Sedalia is always there. Although we have ridden both directions, west to east is preferred.

Wind direction is to be determined along the river and bluffs as it often swirls and can change direction as you pass.

Keep in mind the trains of old only had a 5% grade to deal with so any elevation change may be irrelevant. If you have previously ridden 100 miles to approach Boonville, Lard Hill may be a strain heading west. If you are starting the day in Boonville, the hill may be less noticeable.