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Home Base for family of 3?
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BeierBeerBuyer from Raytown, MO on 5/18/2013 4:18:28 PM:
My husband and I are planning a fall trip on/to the Katy trail. In order to minimize logistics, hassle, and plan a toddler-friendly trip, we plan to stay in the same location for three nights and do two days of riding, one to the west and back, one to the east and back. We're considering Rocheport or Augusta as our "home base." We're looking for some nice scenery on the trail surrounding, and a couple dinner options near our lodging. Any other suggestions? We don't plan to go too far during the days- maybe 25 miles round trip. So a concentration of trail favorites is a plus. We're first timers so I'm open to any suggestions and ideas from folks who know the trail and what each area has to offer. Thanks in advance!
 
Hank on 5/19/2013 8:24:52 AM:
I would think Rocheport is your better option. Boonville and the Mo River crossing to the west, pretty stretch along the river to the east. Big Oak Tree to the east. Good dining in Rocheport. Augusta is nice though the scenery and sights in the nearby vicinity don't compare to Rocheport IMO. Haven fun.
 
Mark from Columbia, MO on 5/19/2013 8:36:44 AM:
I know the trail from Boonville to Mokane. Rocheport east to Huntsdale is the prettiest (IMHO). Lots of caves with cliffs on one side and the MO River on the other side. 12.5 miles west gets you to New Franklin, 12.5 east gets you to Providence. Most food options are in Rocheport with best overnight options. Can't speak to the Augusta option...
 
El Toro on 5/19/2013 9:38:22 AM:
I have had the pleasure of riding Clinton-St. Charles on multiple occasions...In my opinion, the prettiest stretch of the KATY is the 25 miles between Rocheport and Hartsburg. That's just my opinion.
 
BeierBeerBuyer from Raytown, MO on 5/19/2013 9:48:47 AM:
Thanks for the opinions! We are definitely leaning towards Rocheport as it is also a much shorter drive. I'm open to any other towns that we might look into, so keep the suggestions coming if you've got 'em!
 
Den from STL on 5/19/2013 10:26:55 AM:
I like the Rendleman Home at mile mark 111. You could ride west one day and see the river and the bluffs and Standing Rock and then east one day through open farm fields and tree shaded trail sections to Historic Hermann. Lots to see and do there along with restaurants but I would eat at Dougs at least one night of your stay. Both he and his dogs are kid friendly and he can cook. He also can give you lots of info on the area and help set up your rides.
 
Pseudio on 5/20/2013 8:20:13 AM:
Best areas on the KT are Boonville to Jeff City and Hermann to Defiance by all experienced recommendations. Best food, B&Bs, wineries and scenery by far.
 
Brad Scroggs from Jefferson City on 5/20/2013 11:27:00 AM:
Rocheport, hands down. We raised two sons on the Katy Trail with daytrips starting in Rocheport; cliffs, caves, a railroad tunnel, river views, Burr Oak, etc. etc. I would suggest that on day two you drive the short trip the McBaine Trail Head and ride 10 miles up the MKT Spur to downtown Columbia for pizza(and cold brews) at Flat Branch Brewpub ... and a splash in the city park playground/fountain on your way back.
 
BeierBeerBuyer from Raytown, MO on 5/20/2013 1:37:26 PM:
Well, I've booked our Boxcar at Katy Trail B&B in Rocheport and we are looking forward to it. The fountain in Columbia sure sounds good... but probably not in early October :) -- however our girl never met a playground she didn't like and I like the idea of checking out another area-- so we will check out the spur side trip for sure. Thanks for the idea, Brad!
 
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