KT / RI Forum

DB from Colorado on 6/20/2011 9:48:03 PM:

Just got back riding from Clinton to Machens. Great trip. Trail is in good shape. No closures, some people reported that there were some "washed out" areas, but I did not notice any, but I'm accustomed to riding packed gravel trails like this, so my expectations may be less than if I rode pavement all the time. Some trees have came down on the trail, but it seems that the park is clearing them as quick as they are found. I thought the MO DNR is doing a great job keeping the park maintained and safe, while not spoiling it.

Things to know:

1. The popular KATY trail book is useful for trail knowledge, but unreliable for any food, water, camping information. Period. Bring a couple of meals with you.
2. Water. Real problem east of Boonville area. Between Clinton and around Boonville, the water at the trail-heads is good and dependable. After that, water at the trail heads become less frequent to non-existent. The town signs at the trail-heads shows water is available, but no details to where.

Through bikers we met were having the same problem, and resorted to "begging" for water from the town merchants. It's hot, and you need a lot. You easily find yourself going through a couple of water bottles between towns. If there are public water supplies in these areas, it would be good to identify where they are. ie. Marthasville has a faucet in the city park, etc.

3. We did about 50-miles per day. Stopped at the markers, rode through many of the towns, talked to other riders and park employees. Not rushed, but had full days on the trail.

4. You got to stop at the KATY Depot in Sedalia. The woman there (Linda?) keeps up with the trail conditions from other riders, knows so much about the history, and is just a good person to talk with.

Happy trails, and be sure to stop at the KT Caboose in Marthasville!

Reply to Trip Report June 13-18