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Which Way Is Best?


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Matt from St. Charles on 6/15/2009 6:24:00 PM:
Is it easier to ride the entire trail east bound or west bound? Which way if either is better/more enjoyable?

 
Doug from Bluffton on 6/15/2009 10:13:38 PM:
It seems like most people ride west to east. There are two main reasons for this. Quoting Norm here: Elevation and prevailing winds. For most of its length the trail runs along the Missouri river and as the river drops approximately one foot per mile so does the trail. For all practical purposes this doesn't mean much to a rider. As to the wind, when you are out there on the trail you will often be fighting what seems to be a strong headwind and the oncoming riders will ask if you are enjoying the tailwind! A meteorologist might offer a convincing argument for the best chance of a tailwind in the river bottom but it seems like it blows into your face and up your back within a few pedal strokes. So, to answer your original questions; absolutely and east, no, west, no.... Glad to have been of help.

 
surrell from O'Fallon on 6/16/2009 11:41:06 PM:
My friend and I rode the Amtrack from St. Charles to Sedalia. We started
their and headed toward St. Charles. From Sedalia to Boonville it is "up
grade" after that it was all down hill so to speak. I looked at the elevation
charts to make this decision. We did run into some winds as they where
racing towards at storm front that was approaching from the NW. Other
than that, go EAST. Good luck.