Katy Trail
About Katy Trail St. Charles Trailhead
The Katy Trail is a recreational trail spanning nearly 240 miles across the state of Missouri. The trail runs along the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad making it the longest developed rail-trail in the country.
The majority of the trail follows the Missouri River, offering trail-goers picturesque views along the way. In addition to breathtaking views, visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, and even horseback riding along the trail. The trail has easy access for getting on and off the trail. Plus, 26 trailheads and a variety of restaurants, wineries, and lodging make for a convenient and enjoyable experience.
Things to Know
The Katy Trail is open from sunrise to sunset to pedestrians, equestrians, hikers, and cyclists. Pets are welcome but are asked to remain on a leash at all times. Restrooms and water areas are available at some, but not all, trailheads. (Check here for information on restrooms and water access.)
If you’ll be leaving a vehicle overnight at a trailhead or parking lot, contact the Katy Trail State Park Office at 573-449-7402 and provide them with your vehicle details. Check out the Frequently Asked Questions page for a larger list of commonly asked questions about the trail.
Biking
The trail offers fun for different cycling levels. Whether you want to enjoy a casual ride with friends and family or prefer to take advantage of the trail’s well-paved paths for training, the trail offers something for everyone. The mostly level surface and variety of rest stops allow for a smooth and comfortable experience.
Electrically powered bicycles and tricycles are also available to rent. If you’re looking to transport your bicycle from town to trail, the Katy Trail Bike Shuttle runs daily during May, June, September, and October. Not comfortable navigating the trail on your own? Take advantage of bike tours offered throughout the trail.
Horseback Riding
If you’d prefer to travel the trail via horseback, horses are permitted on the 34.7-mile section from Clinton to Sedalia as well as the 15.3-mile stretch between Tebbetts and Portland in central Missouri. The Henry County Fairgrounds in Clinton offers equestrian trailer parking. Other options for parking are the trailheads in Mokane, Calhoun, Green Ridge, and Windsor.
Historical Landmarks
For history buffs, the Katy Trail is a goldmine of historic sites to enjoy and explore.
Historic St. Charles sits at the trail's eastern boundary and stands as a tribute to the starting point of Lewis and Clark's western expedition. Stroll along Historic Main Street’s brick-paved streets and enjoy one-of-a-kind shops, restaurants, and B&Bs in buildings that date to the 1800s.
Take a short detour from St. Charles to the outskirts of Defiance, in Historic Missouri Wine Country, to visit The Historic Daniel Boone Home. The famous frontiersman’s legacy is brought to life through the early 1800s-style homestead.
Just south of the Katy Trail in Jefferson City, tour the Missouri State Capitol. Built in 1917, the capitol is filled with art, including one of Thomas Hart Benton’s most famous murals, A Social History of Missouri. For more history. visit the Katy Depot in Sedalia, where you can explore the history of the MKT Railroad and discover how the Katy Trail got its start. If you visit in August, you can experience the Missouri State Fair hosted by Sedalia each year.
Eat, Drink, Stay
You’ll find wineries, breweries, and restaurants near the trail or even just a short bike ride away. These spots are great for fueling up before hitting the trail, taking a lunch break, or relaxing at the end of a ride. Some of our favorites include:
Eat:
Drink:
- Good News Brewing Company
- A-Frame Outdoor Winegarden
- No. 5 Bistro & Bar
Stay:
If you prefer to camp, several public and privately owned campgrounds are located nearby. Pitch your tent at Cooper’s Landing or at the Hermann City Parks RV & Tent Camping. (Camping is not allowed along the trail itself.)
