End to end bike trip planning

I am planning on and end to end bike trip on the Katy trail. Can someone recommend a detailed bike map of the full trail? I see nothing on line that even comes close. I'm talking a physical map. Not the online maps which don't help.

I have never seen a “detailed” printed Katy Trail map.

There are three printed maps that I’m aware of. They all show the route of the trail with towns and mile markers, but please be aware that you won’t get details like surrounding roads or off-trail towns.

[1] MO State Parks publishes a glossy brochure type map. You can often find these at trailheads, although many times the trailhead mapholders are empty. I believe MO State Parks will mail you one if you request: https://mostateparks.com/page/contact-us

[2] We sell a laminated map on this website: https://bikekatytrail.com/merchandise.aspx#map
Again, it gives you the route which you can see in relation to the river, with trail towns and mile markers, and distance info – but no details beyond that.

[3] At the bottom of the Interactive Map page ( https://bikekatytrail.com/katy-trail-map.aspx ) are links to PDFs which contain basic maps similar to what is explained above, as well as mileage charts. You can download and print these, or have it on your phone in a pinch.

I know these aren’t what you had in mind, but I wanted to provide some kind of answer for you. If anyone else knows of other maps, please do share.

Maps or not, have fun out there on the trail – happy trails!

Maybe what you are really looking for are one of the Books written about each stop, with a Map included. The first time I rode end to end, I had read a copy first, and took it with me on my ride.

Thank you so much for your help.

Would you recommend camping at Coopers in Easley or at Katy Roundhouse?

If you can tell us why you want a map, maybe we can figure out a solution for you.

I'll also add that the Katy is very easy to follow. Sedalia is the only place that I remember where you get off the gravel rail trail, and it is very well marked.

This isn't the OTET, or the Erie Canal Trail, where detailed directions and wayfinding are required. If you have ridden either of those, I understand why you are asking for a map.

Boonville is just as convoluted as Sedalia, IMO. But yes, Sedalia is a bit funny. In fact, in Sedalia if you look closely, you can actually see the old track going through the woods next to it.

I found that Google Maps STREET VIEW provided all the detail I needed. It allowed me to assess small towns with my own eyes. You will find stores, parks, restaurants etc that are not listed on the Katy website. It will also allow you to size up cycling conditions, such as shoulders on the road and what conflict with cars (and semi trucks) may exist.