The Katy Trail is the longest rail-trail in the United States: about 240 miles of former railway line, most of it along the Missouri River, turned into a path for walking and cycling. It takes its name from the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, the "MKT" or "Katy", which used to run here. The trail passes along the north bank of the river, just across from Jefferson City, and the access at North Jefferson makes the capital one of the easiest places to try it.
Getting on the trail
North Jefferson is a few minutes' drive from downtown across the Missouri River bridge. There is parking near the trail, and a short connector leads to the main line. Bikes can be rented in the area in the riding season; reserve ahead on fine weekends. If you have your own bike, bring it: the trail is the best reason to.
What the trail is like
- Surface. Crushed limestone, firm in dry weather. Road bikes with narrow tires struggle; hybrids and mountain bikes are ideal.
- Gradient. Almost none. It was a railway, so climbs are gentle and long.
- Scenery. River views, limestone bluffs, farmland and woods, with small towns every several miles.
- Services. Spread out. Carry water and a repair kit, and do not count on shops being open midweek or out of season.
Easy rides from North Jefferson
The simplest plan is an out-and-back: ride for an hour in one direction, turn round, and ride back. Upstream, the trail heads west and north along the river towards Hartsburg, a small river town with a reputation for its fall pumpkin festival. Downstream, it runs east past bluffs and bottomland towards a string of small farming towns. Either way you will be beside the water for much of the ride.
Walkers get the same scenery at a slower pace. An hour's walk out from the trailhead and back is enough to see why people ride the whole trail over several days.
Fitting it into a visit
The trail is a half-day trip, best in the morning before the heat in summer. Put it on day two of a weekend in town, then come back across the river for the Bicentennial Bridge in the evening. On a very hot day, the shaded trails at Runge Nature Center are the better choice.