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Weather and services at end of April


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C.S. from Iowa on 3/29/2006 10:38:04 PM:
We want to ride the trail in April 29-May 2, approximately. Have never seen the trail. Looks like from your weather map it could be rainy and we could lack services due to being out of season. Closest access for us is the western end. Any advice?

 
gee on 3/30/2006 12:51:08 AM:
Spring on the trail can be a bit of hit and miss with the weather but don't let that stop you. Most of the time day's are warm, in the high 60's to 70's. I must say you have better weather men than we do to forcast the weather so far in advance, don't always trust weather maps. Service on the trail starts April 1 for those who are still in business, it is hard to make a living on the trail. Some are not open on Mondays, some Tuesday and Wednesday, but most are open Thursdays thru Sunday.
Pack one outfit for cold nights, it can get a little chilly sometimes. Layers of clothing will work and if at all possible rain gear would help.
Rochport to Jeff City is the best part of the trail. Don't forget to check out Amtrak trains and the stations they serve, that would give you a one way ride lasting about 3 days.
Good Luck and Happy Trails

 
sbikes from KCMO on 3/31/2006 9:23:57 PM:
Most places along the trail should be open by then. But, plan ahead...carry an extra water
bottle and a Luna bar in your bag, just in case you get caught. Powdered Gatorade is a
godsend for me.

Other than that, have a great ride! Weather this time of year could be anything. Dress in
layers, leave the jeans at home (too heavy), bring shorts and sweats (or leg warmers),
short sleeve jerseys with arm warmers (because it will be warm during the middle of the
day, probably). The trail is more desolate between Clinton and Booneville, but full of its
own beauty...not unlike the farmland of Iowa. The topography changes between
Booneville and Rocheport where you start to be between the river and tall bluffs. Alos,
once you get to Booneville east there are services about every 10 miles or so (because the
trains needed to refuel every 10 miles, so they built a town everywhere the train needed to
stop!) And, if it rains, well you will get wet...but, then the sun will come out and you will
dry off. And in some places, like in Pilot Grove, the local grocery stores will happily fix you
a sandwich.

Have fun!