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New to biking and the KT
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J.A. from Jefferson City on 4/7/2013 12:51:38 PM:
Hello all. My family just got ourselves new bikes today and wanted to know about the Katy Trail. Mainly is it ok for kids? My son (9 years old) knows how to ride a bike but has never been on a trail and was just wondering if he will be able to handle it. I don't know the terrain of the trail (paved, bumpy, hilly, etc.) and want to make sure it's something he can handle and not get discouraged by. We don't plan on going long distance to start but still want him to enjoy it. Another embarrassing question is where would be the best place for us to access the trail, right by the bridge I am guessing? Thanks to all for any help, tips and advice you can give me to make this a good riding spot for my family.
 
Figs from Olathe, KS on 4/7/2013 3:02:38 PM:
Congrats on the new bikes! KT is very flat and generally very wide. It is a crushed rock surface. So, a child, who can manage a bicycle and maintain a lane of travel, becuase there is often traffic either passing from ahead or overtaking from behind, should be able to enjoy riding on KT.

It's important to consider how well your child can handle riding with distractions. People, wildlife, and lots of beautiful scenery. Mainly, lots of people. Also, the trail has some locations that drop off to either side of the trail. They would be plenty safe if they stayed on the trail, but could get an exciting ride into the trees or swamps off the side at certain parts of the trail. I think all the bridges have side rails....
 
Ray (webmaster) on 4/7/2013 7:03:21 PM:
Congrats on your new bikes. I think you'll love the Katy Trail. Good advice above from Figs, the only thing I'll add is that it is very flat - no hills to worry about. And another great thing - no cars.

As for how to get there, click on "N Jefferson" (not Jefferson City) in the map at the top of this page. Then page down a little, and you'll see an interactive google map of the North Jefferson trailhead where you can park. You can zoom in and out on the map, and click-and-hold to "drag" the map to one direction.

I'd suggest just riding a couple miles one way, then head back. If everyone still feels good by the time you get back, keep going in that other direction. You'll get a pretty good feel for how well the trail is working out and how far everyone feels like going.

Have fun!
 
El Toro on 4/7/2013 8:08:10 PM:
It is very flat. Good news-no hills to climb. Bad news-no hills to coast down and recover. If you're moving forward - you're pedaling.

Enjoy!!
 
kevin from Jeff City on 4/8/2013 3:17:12 PM:
JA, if you are driving to the trail from Jefferson City, just cross the bridge, take the first exit and follow the signs. You can park across from MFA in the little park and take the spur, or drive around to the trailhead.
 
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