Safety

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CML from Joplin on 5/6/2011 12:42:09 PM:

I have ridden a small part of the Katy Trail, but would like to ride the complete trail. My question is how safe is it to ride the trail alone being a woman. I have ridden 4 centuries so I am not worried about the distance just if there are any personal safety concerns. I will probably stay in B&B's at night, so as not to worry about camping. Any input from veteran riders would be greatly appreciated.

Cathy from Jefferson City on 5/6/2011 10:11:01 PM:

I am a 59 year old woman and I ride the Katy Trail by myself every chance a I get. The only safety issue is that one or two times in the last few years there have been a couple of problems with dogs. But it seems to get taken care of pretty quickly. But I've never worried about being hurt by people. Oh wait, one Sat. a few years ago there were a bunch of cub scouts riding the trail. That was scary. You'll love the trail, and you'll meet friendly people on the trail and at the B & Bs where you stay and towns along the way.

MAH on 5/8/2011 3:17:43 PM:

I've (57 y/o woman) ridden alone many times and as previous poster stated, only problems have been an occasional dog (twice in past 7 yrs). Also hubby almost collided with a deer once that jumped in front of him. I have ridden end to end sole staying in B&Bs and have had no trouble. Just be prepared for possible flats, know where your water stops are and as always, be aware of your surroundings and the weather. You'll enjoy it!

mo from Allentown nj on 5/8/2011 9:32:49 PM:

I just finished a complete ride of the trail in 3 and 1/2 days late March. Saw one copper head sunning itself on the trail. Just gave it it's space. Met very nice people, no problems. Good stop at Dutzow right on the trail. Give yourself extra time if the wind is blowing.

M. Richard Troeh from Independence, MO on 5/8/2011 10:16:28 PM:

I am a 76 yr old man who just finished riding the entire trail (Machens to Clinton) with my son & another guy. We stayed in B&Bs about every 40 miles (made reservations in advance), met several women going alone & in pairs on the trail, & felt the trail was populated enough that safety would be a minimal concern. I wish I could say it would be of zero concern, but I know of nowhere you can go that is ABSOLUTELY safe.

CML from Joplin on 5/12/2011 9:10:34 AM:

Thanks so much for all the comments and great information. I feel much better with making solo plans. I see a road/trail trip in my future real soon. Thanks again everyone. Keep riding!!!

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