Rock Island Trail Forum

Hi all, this question is for those that ride the whole trail - how much time do you spend on the bike each day? I'm seeing people recommending 50-80 miles per day for a relatively fit cyclist, just curious how much time is spent on the bike. I'm trying to plan out my first out and back from St. Louis. For reference, I'll do a century ride on pavement in about 7 hours (6a-1p). Would I be completely out of my mind to think I could ride from Machens to Pleasant Hill in two days, and then back in another two, assuming I'm spending most of the daylight in the saddle?

100 miles on pavement in 7 hours means you average 14 MPH. I would say on the Katy, that could reasonably go down to 12 MPH. If you start at Machens and go to Pleasant Hill, that's 268 miles. That would be three 7-hour days each way for you. Of course, if you want to ride longer each day, then 2 days each way would work. However, you would not have much time (if any) to enjoy the sights and towns along the way. And if the weather is bad or the wind is not in your favor, then you put your schedule in jeopardy.

A good approach for most people is to decide if you want to do the Katy in as few days as possible, or to see as much as you can. And whatever you choose, add an extra "weather day" into your plans.

My only question would be "why?" Why would anyone try to ride any rail/trail as fast as they can? That kinda defeats the whole purpose of riding the trail, doesn't it. My wife and I have ridden rail/trails all over the country (KATY is on our schedule for June but, that might not happen) and we always enjoy just taking our time, stopping frequently to enjoy the scenery and take photos. We stop in most every little trail-side town or village and check them out. We are always courteous to those who come blasting along but, we never really understand why they are in such a hurry to leave the beautiful outdoors and get to their overnight destination where there really isn't much attraction. My advice, if you have limited time then limit your distance goals and enjoy the ride!

Al, there is no right way to do the trail. I’ve biked the whole trail many times (well, almost the whole trail - never done the St. Charles to Machens portion) mostly over 4 days but once in two days. Why? Because I wanted to see if I could do it. Lots to be said for a leisurely ride but it’s not the only option.

Agree with BikerBoy—you’ll go about 2 mph slower on Katy than you will on asphalt. So 10+ hours of riding time 4 days in a row is a pretty ambitious schedule for the vast majority of folks. Nor does it take into account meals, weather, wind, added bike/equipment weight, stops not being where you want them, etc.

So, can it be done? Yes. Does it sound fun? No. I’d suggest keeping it in the 60-80 miles per day range, drinking coffee in the AM, eating decent meals, drinking a few beers, and enjoying your time. If you want a big mileage day, do that too; then follow that up with an easier day.

Al - Would you mind sharing other favorite rail trails you have ridden? My husband and I rode the Katy last year and planned to to Pittsburgh to Cumberland in September (hopefully)...but we are open to other trails. I would love to hear your favorite ones.

Hello Jennifer - I'll try to answer but I'm not sure I'll remember them all off the top of my head. Of course, there's the GAP (Great Allegheny Passage)- we started on a different trail in West Virginia that hooked into the GAP and then rode it to the end (which I think is technically the beginning) in Maryland...it took a week. We've done a bunch of the Paul Bunyon and connecting trails - those are nice in sections but some sections are not so spectacular. We loved the tour we did in Wisconsin - Elroy-Sparta, Gandy Dancer, Glacial Drumlin, and maybe another. (not all of these connect so, there was some driving between trails)
For a wonderful 1-2 trip, do the Virginia Creeper - it's beautiful but you shuttle to the top of a very steep mountain and then meander your way down to Damascus but, don't stop there! Ride on the less traveled part to Abingdon and have a nice dinner. Damascus is more fun to stay in, though. There's a very cool trail in Iowa (more than one) - the High Trestle trail is kinda short but the bridge is a must see! I can't remember the other ones we did. Fox River Trail in Illinois is also a very nice ride but it's been a long time since I was on that one. OK, that's enough for now... There's a bunch of them across the country and we've probably only done about 20 or so. NOTE: I haven't ridden the KATY, yet! Our trip scheduled for last year got flooded out. We're scheduled to go in June but we may get postponed again if the COVID-19 thing doesn't feel safe to us by then. Al

Other rail trails that are noteworthy are the Mickelson in South Dakota, the Tunnel Hill in south central Illinois and the Raccoon River Valley trail east of Des Moines Iowa.

The High Trestle trail bridge is unique with the lights at night, but hardly worth the trip to Iowa for just that trail. Iowa has an extensive network of trails in the Des Moines area. Check out bikeiowa.com.

The Paul Bunyan trail in Minnesota is a decent paved trail as well.

The Route of the Hiawatha in Idaho takes the prize for being the most beautiful. It is definitely worth the time/expense to visit this trail. It's just pretty hard to beat a one way downhill ride in the mountains over majestic trestles.

I have enjoyed these. Shorter trails. (1) Root River Valley trail in SE Minnesota. Stayed at Eagle Cliff Campground near Lanesboro. (2) Heritage Trail in Dubuque Iowa. My go to trail to have a few hours away from the city. (3) Summerset Trail south of Des Moines Iowa. Hoping to bike the Katy trail and possibly the Paul Bunyan trail in 2020.

Does anyone have thoughts on reception of out of state bikers in small towns along these trails given the Cover situation?

Anyone ridden from Hunstdale to Rocheport lately? Advisory for that portion, but is it still rideable even though "trucks and heavy equip spreading rock"? Thanks:)

Is the ENTIRE Katy Trail (Clinton, MO to Machens, MO) fully functional at the moment, or are there certain sections of the trail to watch out for or that are closed off completely? If you have any input at all, it would be appreciated!

I would like to know the answer to this Question also

This website has good information on trail conditions:
https://katytrailmo.com/katy-trail-closures-and-conditions-spring-2020/

A bridge between Rocheport and Boonville is out, but there is a detour. Here's a good discussion of that closure and detours: https://bikekatytrail.com/talk.aspx?tid=11173

I've also been told that you can get around the closure near Portland by using the adjacent roads, but have not been able to get specific details. If anyone has details of how to detour the Portland closure, please share.

The missing portion of trail near Machens looks pretty bad; I don't think you'll get around that. See the photo on the Trail Conditions page, where you will see info on trail conditions, as reported by other trail users:
https://bikekatytrail.com/trail-condition-report.aspx

Any recommendations for a nice saddle for the trip?

Saddles can be difficult. Basically though, whatever works for you is the one you need. Not much help, but that's been my experience.

Years ago I had a Brooks on a Peugeot that was fantastic. It was easy to break in and was very comfortable. A few years ago I bought another Brooks that was sprung and road several hundred miles on it. It was stiff as a board the day I sold it. Glad to have the cash in my pocket and to get rid of that thing.

I have a Terry Fly that I've ridden on a couple of different bikes that I like pretty well.

Saddles to me are often like a science experiment gone wrong. Try a few out, and ride what fits best.

First time riding Katy Trail ....Curious how recent trail conditions are from Columbia to Rocheport ??

I just called the Katy Trail SP office and they said the bridge over Salt Creek will definitely NOT be replaced this summer.

I don't think you have to cross Salt Creek to get from Columbia to Rocheport, though, do you?

Sorry, my goof. I thought she said Boonville. Brain not working today.

We rode the trail from Columbia (Scott Blvd Access of MKT) to Rocheport this weekend, and the trail was in great condition. No issues whatsoever

Has anyone done the trail on a recumbent trike, how well did it work? I do have some physical limitations and sometimes i am forced to use my electric assist is that a problem?

I've seen trikes on the Katy and there doesn't seem to be a problem at all. I know of one 80 year old who rode his trike from end to end in both 2017 and 2018. The trail is plenty wide in most places.

Electric assist also isn't a problem as long as you aren't going too fast. Finding a place to recharge can be as issue if you are going long distances.

Thank you for your response, don't use e-assist much, plus wife will be following with van.

I’ve ridden the Katy trail with my “trike” and both times it was great! Will probably do it again. A great way to sit back and enjoy the view.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYAMEF5xeOk

The youtube was not available.

Brett Dufur the author of The complete Katy Trail Guidebook say recumbent will be the only way he rides it again. If you haven't read his book it's worth every penny even if you don't plan to ride the trail.

https://www.abebooks.com/Complete-Katy-Trail-Guidebook-Show-Series/30608006175/bd?cm_mmc=ggl-_-US_Shopp_Trade-_-new-_-naa&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIsoOulev66AIVgonICh1_DguQEAQYBiABEgIIYfD_BwE

Great place! Stayed at Ashcreek many times while biking the Katy. They have lots of house options. Can put bikes inside in basements easily. Great location in town. Near lots of restaurants and a couple convenience stores. Trolley stops in front if you want to go to the wineries. Hot showers and comfy beds. Great for small or big groups. Book directly on their web site to save Air B&B fees. Nice owners and they are bikers!

Me and 2 of my friend were going to do a round trip on the trail we are all 16 is there any age restriction on the trail or any camp sites?

I looked over the MO State Parks info & there don’t appear to be any age restrictions. The campgrounds are all run by businesses or cities, so it would be a good idea to check with wherever you are camping, but I doubt there will be any problem with your ages. Be sure to read the Katy Trail usage guidance at https://mostateparks.com/page/57944/general-information before you go. Take lots of water & sunscreen :-) & have fun!

Thank you so much!

Has anyone ridden a tadpole style trike on the highway 49 detour?

First of all, thank you to all the experienced Katy riders who post here and made planning our trip so much easier, and to the webmaster for maintaining this amazing site. I've never done a travel blog, but the Katy is such a special place that I really wanted to capture it (plus my memory isn't what it used to be). Hope you enjoy it, lots of pictures and commentary!
http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog/kchancecarter/1/tpod.html

Thank you for sharing your travel memories. We've stayed at most all of the same places and have ridden in the fall several times, making your blog a trip down memory lane. I've wished many times that there were resources like this site when planning other rail trail trips.

Not letting open the link? ????

Anon, it is working now. Maybe the blog website was having problems when you tried, or you might have not copied the web address correctly. I hope you can get to it - good read!

Thanks Ray, Trek, and Anon! I enjoyed reading other people's blogs, so it is fun to add to the collection.

Thanks. Awesome blog. Well done. Enjoyed reading it. I have a similar love of the KATY. Got to ride on it a few times this year, but "itching" for another end-to-end. Thanks again for posting the blog.

KC, I really enjoyed reading about your ride on the Katy. And I will enjoy the walk around Lady Bird Lake in January when I am there.

Hi. I just rode a short ride fron Hartsbug to Easly -- the trail had a few rough spots. Does anyone know if its smooth from Easly to McBaine?

Thanks

Thanks to Trevor Scott for sharing this suggested route from Lambert St Louis Airport to the Katy Trail. Getting from the St Louis airport to the Katy Trail is no easy feat on a bike, so it helps having a good route to follow.

You can see additional Lambert-to-trail ideas here: https://bikekatytrail.com/airport-katy-trail.aspx

Thank you to Kyle Kessler for sharing this GPS file (gpx format) with Waypoints and Route from Clinton to Machens!
KATY.gpx

Just released today:
https://www.stlmag.com/longform/katy-trail-guide/

Great info. I still hope to ride across the Katy Trail sometime this year.

Instead I've been riding out of O'Fallon and Collinsville on the Madison County trails while maintaining social distancing except with my wife who is on the back of the tandem!

your lucky if you can still ride trails at all. Around here (Johnson Co. Ks) the trail are so crowded it would be impossible to ride safely with appropriate social distancing. I have gone to riding on the streets, very little traffic (almost none sometimes) and able to be away from others. I am a long time bike rider 30 years, so even if there is some traffic it really doesn't bother me. Most of my life the only places to ride have been on streets, the trails thing is relatively recent.

Good luck with your riding
Allen

Agree with Allen regarding trail “traffic”. It’s quite bad up North as well. A great trail system exists that is currently mobbed by non-riders. Clueless nature gawkers and triple-wide child stroller parades make the trails impassable. The worst are to dog owners that insist that the trail has been redesignated as off- lease parks.

I’m back on the roads again as well.

Allen is dead on about the trails here in Johnson County. March 25th, first really nice day here, the trails looked like a street carnival. People meandering around aimlessly, parents having big lawn chair parties while their kids were running wild and mobbing the playground equipment. I've abandoned the trails and parks and have also been strictly on streets. With the reduced traffic I can ride on just about any street I want. I don't interact with anyone, give road adjacent sidewalk users a wide berth and don't touch anything I don't take with me. From what I can see of the trails that occasionally run parallel to some of my routes, things seem to have gotten a little better. I did see a motorcycle officer patrolling the trail one day, so that may be helping the situation, but still not worth taking a chance on them while so many of the roads are now more easily traversed.

Hi all! Missed my solo end to end ride last year due to weather and previous year due to accident. Happy to hear trail is open in spite of Covid. I plan to stay at the B and B’s like previous years when I’ve done it. Any word on if they are ordered closed or choosing to close? Equally important are the detours. I am terrified of road riding as Ive been hit before. I can handle small detours of a few miles. I know the MO State Parks list closures but they are behind in updates at times. Any riders out there run into detours? We’re you able to navigate them? If they are on major roads do any shuttles take riders around them? Thanks all.

Hi! I'm planning a trip over memorial day weekend. We will suffer Friday night to Clinton (or somewhere else if you suggest). We will have Saturday, Sunday and Monday as full booking days. What do you'll suggest as an itinerary? Can we do the whole trail in 3 days? We are in our 30s and pretty fit. If you suggest shortening it, what parts are best to skip? Finally, what towns are the best so that we are sure to budget time there!

Mondays can be a problem as many businesses around the trail are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The whole trail in 3 days is somewhat ambitious. It would be similar to doing back to back to back century rides on the road. I do it in 5 days. If I were to do it in 3 days, I'd start in Boonville to McKittrick/Hermann; then Jefferson City; lastly St. Charles. That's about 50 miles a day average. You could start in Sedalia; however, that first day would be rather long at 85 miles.

Are you planning on camping or staying at a hotel / B&B? Boonville doesn't have any camping options.

If you want to do the whole thing in 3 days from Clinton, I'd think Rocheport, McKittrick/Hermann, St. Charles would be the way to go. That's about 75 miles a day average.

Boonville to Jefferson City, then to McKittrick. Jerry had you backtracking there.

There is no camping in Boonville, but the Roundhouse in New Franklin is just a few miles from the river bridge in Boonville.

Jeff City is kind of a side trip, and isn't a must-see. If you can work out supplies without it, I'd bypass it.

Visit by car later if you are interested. Make sure to go to Central Dairy if you do drop by.

The prettiest part of the trail is between Boonville and Jefferson City (IMO). But, there is a detour between Franklin and Rocheport. It is kinda scary, being on a single lane highway with little room for shoulders for about 2-3 miles.
Also, the smaller towns kind of roll up the carpet at 6:00 if they aren't closed on certain days. Just don't take things for granted that you can stop at the next town and get something to eat. That may not happen. I would suggest taking your time and spend more time on the trail, enjoying the beauty.
We like to stay at hotels in Sedalia, Booneville, and Jefferson City, depending on what our plans are. Going across the bridges in Booneville and Jeff City is safe because you have a designated bike lane for each bridge. I would be happy to give you more of my two cents worth if there were some way to contact you. I don't know if you are planning to backtrack or if you have a shuttle, etc.
Clinton to just short of Windsor is kinda boring partly because it is next to a highway for several miles, is flat and straight with little shade.

for the most part I think it's very doable. What I did was park my car in ST Charles took bus and bike to ST L train station took train to Indepence, MS, rode to Pleasant Hill to the Rock Island trail to the Katy Trail total mi around 80ish , camped rode to Jefferson city , arounrd 100ish camped there and rode the rest to ST Charles to the car abound 100ish. Mostly flat, 700x 32 or wider tire might be safer on that trail