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

Best town from which to do 2 out and back rides.


Go to Forum
Tom Herron from Gig Harbor, WA on 8/6/2026 9:22:09 AM:
We’re hoping to spend 2 days of out and back rides on the Katy Trail. We’d like to have a nice base town. (Would love recommendations on B and B or other accommodations.) We’re hoping to ride 50-75 miles/day round trip that would give us a good sampling of the trail. Planning on being there late September 2026. Chat GPT suggests Rocheport. Thoughts? Thanks!

 
Bill R. from Wentzville on 8/6/2026 11:57:58 AM:
Assuming your 75 miles per day out and back:

From Rocheport that takes you west for about 38 miles from mile post marker 179 to 217 past New Franklin; Booneville; Pilot Grove (one of my favorite trailheads); and Clifton City. And then, of course, 38 miles return.

Then east from Rocheport for about 38 miles from mile post marker 179 to 141 past McBaine; Hartsburg; and North Jefferson. And then 38 miles return.

I've ridden the trail quite a few times. I'd do that trip.

 
Missourian from Eastern MO on 8/6/2026 12:03:09 PM:
Good day, Tom.
I think most people would agree that the sections of the trail near Rocheport include some of the most scenic areas anywhere along the crushed limestone path. On the west side of town is the only remaining original railroad tunnel. And as you travel to the east from Rocheport there are tall bluffs against the trail to the left, and immediately to the right are the banks of the Missouri River.
Towns with lodging to the east of Rocheport incude Hartsburg (24.7 mi) and North Jefferson (and across the river from the trail is the state capitol of Jefferson City) [35.1 mi].
Lodging to the west of Rocheport can be found in the towns of Booneville (13.5 mi), and Pilot Grove (25.0). And, just a lil EXTRA info: there is a casino adjacent to the trail in Booneville.
I hope this info is helpful, and wish you happy trails and good times. BTW, the Katy Trail State Park office will gladly send a map of the trail with PLENTY of useful information to anyone who requests one by dialing 573-449-7402.