We’re turning pedals once again, tracing the spine of Missouri’s heartland on the storied Katy Trail, from Clinton to Machens. What once was the railbed of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad is now 240 miles of crushed limestone, river whispers, and history under your wheels, threading through riverside bluffs, charming little towns, and echoes of old rail stops. Over the next seven rides, we’ll see it all — day and night, 14 eyes capturing every twist, turn, and hidden gem.
This isn’t just a trail. It’s a corridor where Lewis and Clark once floated upstream, where ancient Native markings still survive etched into massive river rocks, and where every mile has a story to tell.
Keep your eyes open:
Limestone bluffs rising like cathedral walls over the Mighty Mo, carved and weathered for centuries.
A giant rock along the river, its surface telling the tales of people who lived here long before railroads or bicycles.
Iron bridges stamped 1897, holding fast like old sentinels.
Lift bridges frozen midair, echoing a time when locomotives ruled the horizon.
Painted grain elevators rising above charming towns, faded logos whispering of bygone industry.
Lovely little towns where front porches, small cafés, and friendly smiles make you pause and stay a little longer.
Hidden gems tucked along the way — quiet benches, shaded groves, and relics that hint at centuries of life along the river corridor.
Some stretches feel like frontier. Others like farmland. Some like the river itself has paused just to watch you ride by.
Bike Katy Trail 2025 - Clinton, MO, to Machens, MO Sep 22-26 2025
Beyond the Trail: Ottawa Bike and Trail (Ottawa Kansas)
Our ride wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of Ottawa Bike and Trail. From the very start at Clinton, their van and trailer are ready to carry our gear, keep our bikes in top shape, and make sure every rider has what they need along the Katy Trail. We all belong to this amazing bike shop community, a group that goes beyond just selling bikes — they foster friendship, adventure, and the love of the ride. Seeing their van and trailer waiting for us reminds us that we’re not just pedaling for miles, we’re riding as part of something bigger: a family of cyclists who lift each other up, celebrate the journey, and bring every ride home with safety, support, and heart. This is our ride home, and Ottawa Bike and Trail is at the center of it — part of the journey, part of the story.
Bike Katy Trail 2025 – Clinton to Sedalia -Day 1
Trailhead Tales: Clinton MO
At the Clinton trailhead, we don’t just arrive — we assemble. A crew bound not by last names but by wheels, pedals, and a shared hunger for the open trail. Bags packed, helmets clicked, coffees downed in one last nervous sip. The Missouri morning air hangs cool and full of promise as spokes spin and spirits rise.
This isn’t just the start of the Katy Trail 2025… this is the ignition point.
We’re not chasing distance — we’re chasing connection.
We’ll laugh at each other’s wobbles, curse together at every surprise railroad rise, and cheer like kids when the first river crossing opens wide beside us.
None of us know exactly what the trail will throw our way — and that’s the best part.
By the end, we won’t just have miles behind us.
We’ll have stories worth retelling and friendships tightened like fresh chains.
Trailhead Tales: Windsor MO
Stopping at Windsor Trailhead after the first 19 miles from Clinton, we soak in the moment. The Katy Trail meets the Rock Island Trail here, linking riders from Kansas City and giving the sense of a bigger journey. Sunlight filters through the trees, black walnuts crunch under our tires, and our group laughs together, full of energy and joy. There’s a Casey’s store just steps from the trail, sparking talk of a quick stop at DQ — which fizzled out — but the jokes, chatter, and shared excitement made the break just as sweet. Windsor is more than a checkpoint; it’s a chance to recharge, snap photos, share stories, and soak in the camaraderie before the next stretch toward Sedalia. This first section already gives a hint of the challenges, beauty, and fun the next four days on the Katy Trail will hold, and we know we’ll end our day in Sedalia, ready to rest and celebrate the miles we’ve conquered.
Beyond the Trail (Clinton to Sedalia Completed) Day 1
After a challenging day on the Katy Trail, our group of seven rolled into Sedalia. Three of us camped at Lazy Liz RV Park, just 0.5 miles from the trail and 2 miles southwest of town, while the other four stayed at a hotel in Sedalia. The ride tested endurance, focus, and teamwork, but it was full of energy, camaraderie, and moments of laughter as we pushed through. At Lazy Liz, the spacious spots, AC hookups, clean bathhouse, indoor and outdoor showers, and friendly atmosphere made it a welcome place to recharge. The day concluded with a delicious dinner at Sunway, a chance to reflect on the ride, celebrate the effort, and enjoy the company of friends. As the evening settled in, we ended the day knowing there was a good chance of rain tomorrow, ready to face the next stretch of the trail together. Visit: Lazy Liz RV Park
Bike Katy Trail 2025 – Sedalia to Boonville- Day 2
Trailhead Tales: Clifton City MO
At the Sedalia trailhead, we rode out layered in raincoats and hoods, ready to face whatever the day would bring. By mile 10, the sky opened fully, and rain poured steadily for the next ten hours. Despite the trail staying unharmed — so well-packed and maintained that it rode smoothly — the rain slowed us down, both physically and mentally. At times it poured so hard that your mind was asking, “What am I doing here? Where’s Plan B?” There was no lightning, thankfully, but the relentless sheets of rain tested focus and endurance. We pushed together as a crew, sharing energy, encouragement, and determination.
This isn’t just a rainy day on the Katy Trail 2025… this is a test of grit and friendship. We laughed at slipping spokes, cursed under our hoods at every unexpected dip, and cheered together when the trail opened, even under gray skies. Every soaked mile bonded us tighter — not just as cyclists, but as a group that refuses to let weather slow the journey. By the end, we wouldn’t just have endured the rain. We’d have shared stories, inside jokes, and a sense of accomplishment that only comes from facing the elements together.
Trailhead Tales: Pilot Grove MO
We’re soaked, covered in crushed limestone, and swapping stories with other riders at the trailhead. Met Brent from Texas — couldn’t miss him in his Texas A&M shirt. From here it’s about 12 miles to Boonville. We just pushed through what I’d call the toughest section of the Katy so far, but now we’re finally on the open flats with one thing on my mind — that one-mile downhill into town. I was ready to enjoy it, but halfway down the grade my rear hub blew out and the bike let loose. No pedaling, no control — not exactly how I planned to roll into Boonville.
Trailhead Tales: Boonville Mo
Tammy rode her very first tour on the Katy Trail, never having done an overnight or long-distance ride before, and completed it with honors. Facing rain, long miles, and challenging terrain, she pushed through with grit, determination, and a smile, proving that courage and persistence make every mile memorable.
Beyond the Trail (Sedalia to New Franklin Completed) Day 2
After everything we went through today -rain, soaked raincoats, a bike breakdown, and long miles on the trail – it was incredible to have the whole crew together. The day was tough, with sheets of rain testing us both mentally and physically, but we rode as a team, supporting and encouraging each other at every mile. We shared laughs, offered help when it was needed, and leaned on one another through every challenge. That evening, my wife brought me a replacement bike, and together as a group we got back on the trail, ready to face the next day. Two of us camped at Katy Roundhouse, while four stayed at the hotel in town. The support, energy, and camaraderie we shared lifted spirits and strengthened us all, reminding us that every challenge faced together makes the journey not just possible, but memorable, and sets us up stronger for what lies ahead.
Bike Katy Trail 2025 – Boonville to Tebbetts - Day 3
Trailhead Tales: Boonville MO
After a good night’s rest following a stress-filled day, and enjoying a hearty breakfast, we’re ready for today’s long ride. Once on the trail along the Missouri River, the scenery slowly shifts as we head more east-northeast, with gentle changes along the riverbanks. We’ll pass through the Rocheport tunnel, stop at Martin Landing, and visit several historic Lewis and Clark sites. Along the way, we’ll soak in the views, share moments with fellow riders, and finally get a chance to dry out — making memories that connect the trail’s natural beauty with its rich history.
Trailhead Tales: McBaine Mo
I first met Brent in Pilot Grove on the Katy Trail after we’d already been through some serious downpours. Today he faced a flat and a broken spoke while heading to Jefferson City for rim and tire repairs. Brent, from Bryan, TX, embraced the challenge of the Katy Trail, doing it solo. Not many people plan a trip from Central Texas to the western part of Missouri, bike across the state alone, and then return home. What an accomplishment—freedom, strength, and getting out there in the USA. Peace and love, Ringo-style.
Trailhead Tales: McBaine MO
Standing proudly for 400 years, this lone pin oak has faced countless storms. To protect it from nature’s fiercest strikes, lightning rods have been installed on its back side. These metal rods act as a path for lightning, safely guiding the electric charge into the ground and preventing catastrophic damage to the tree. It’s a quiet partnership between human ingenuity and natural resilience: the tree continues to grow, age, and inspire, while the rods ensure that centuries of life aren’t undone by a single flash of lightning. In a way, it’s a living metaphor for preparation and foresight — knowing that even the strongest among us benefit from a little protection against the unexpected.
Explore the Big Burr Oak Tree, a legendary tree in McBaine, Missouri, believed to be over 400 years old. This massive oak stands as a living piece of history along the Katy Trail. The video gives you a close-up look at its enormous trunk, sprawling branches, and the surrounding area that makes it such a breathtaking natural landmark. Whether you’re planning a ride on the Katy Trail or simply love remarkable trees, this video captures the scale, beauty, and quiet majesty of one of Missouri’s most iconic oaks.
Watch and enjoy this incredible symbol of strength and endurance in the heart of Missouri!
Trailhead Tales: Easley, Missouri – Cooper’s Landing
Our next stop on the Katy Trail is Easley, Missouri, at Cooper’s Landing, a quiet spot where the river bends gently and boats often make their pause. Several years ago, I met a young woman here from Germany. She had paddled all the way down the Missouri River, starting in Montana, planning to continue to the Mississippi and out to the ocean—but she decided to stop at St. Louis. It was incredible hearing her story, imagining the miles she’d covered and the adventures she’d seen along the way.
Cooper’s Landing is a perfect place to pause, take in the river, and reflect on the journeys—big and small—that pass through here.
Trailhead Tales: Tibbetts Hostel Stop (with Rachel & the Bike Garage)
Our overnight stop was in Tebbetts, Missouri at the Katy Trail hostel — one of those places that looks simple from the outside but delivers exactly what trail riders need. There aren’t restaurants in town, but thanks to Rachel and her Happy Trails Katy-ring Service, riders can get full meals delivered for about $15 a plate. We signed up for dinner and breakfast. She promised there’d be more food than we could handle — and she was right. With around 22 people eating and nearly 30 staying the night, she kept everyone fed.
The hostel setup is humble but perfect for cyclists: bunk beds inside, a shadow box of trail history on the wall, and a makeshift garage where everyone parked their bikes for the night. It wasn’t luxury — it was community. Just the kind of stop that makes the Katy Trail what it is.
Beyond the Trail – (Boonville to Tibbetts Completed) Day 3
It was fantastic to have the whole crew together on the Katy Trail today. This section between Rocheport and Jefferson City is often called the prettiest part of the entire trail, and it’s easy to see why — river views, towering cliffs, and the famous tunnel at Rocheport made every mile memorable.
We did encounter a brief storm near Jefferson City, and I had a mechanical issue with my bike, but the group stayed positive, helping each other along the way and sharing plenty of laughs. The scenery, camaraderie, and trail life made the day feel effortless and joyful.
With the team we have, the support we give one another, our shared laughter, and our personalities, it all comes together like pieces of a puzzle — creating a picture that’s not only beautiful to see, but unforgettable to be a part of.
Bike Katy Trail 2025 –Tibbetts to Martinsville - Day 4
Trailhead Tales: Tibbetts Mo
Today promises a full day on the Katy Trail. We’ll pass a massive rock formation, roll by Hermann, Missouri, stop for lunch along the way, and catch a glimpse of a tugboat working the river. With plenty of miles ahead, the trail offers a mix of scenery and surprises, and our crew is ready to tackle the day together, enjoying the ride, the views, and whatever the river throws our way.
Trailhead Tales: McKittrick Mo
Together we’re rolling strong under the sunshine, miles already behind us, taking in more of the trail’s sights as we ride. As a group, we decided not to go into Hermann today — with plenty of miles ahead and other plans for the evening, we kept our pace toward Marthasville. Lunch was decent, not quite last year’s, but the group vibe is unbeatable — everyone helping each other, sharing laughs, and soaking in the ride. Pure trail joy.
Trailhead Tales: East of Herman
While riding along the Katy Trail, we suddenly came upon the tugboat operation. Huge dump trucks were hauling rocks a quarter mile away, dumping them onto barges to build in-water levees. The sight was impressive, but the trail got tricky — one of us, Rob, rode through it, momentum carrying him safely, while the rest of us had to stop and navigate carefully. A tense but unforgettable moment on the ride.
Beyond the Trail – (Tibbetts to Marthasville) Day 4
Today’s ride was packed with sunshine, scenic trails, and endless views of the river winding alongside us. From the challenges on the trail to the serene moments by the water, there was so much to take in. Our evening in Marthasville brought another highlight — meeting six travelers from New York City who were camping along the same route. Sharing stories about their lives — from teachers and counselors to carpenters — and exchanging perspectives on different cultures and experiences created a wonderful sense of connection. Meanwhile, Dave, Kara, and Randy stayed at a beautiful B&B in town, full of bicycle trinkets and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect place to rest after the ride. Laughter, conversation, and camaraderie rounded out a day full of adventure, reminding us that the trail is as much about the people we meet as the miles we ride.
Bike Katy Trail 2025 – Marthasville to Machens Day 5: Ringing the Trailhead Bell
Trailhead Tales: Marthasville, MO
Today’s ride stretches on with plenty of miles and breathtaking scenery, a true test of endurance and focus. Yet the anticipation of what’s ahead — the twists in the trail, the river views, the stops to refuel, and the sense of completing something big — fuels the group with an almost tangible energy. Every pedal stroke brings more endorphins, more power, and more determination, as excitement and momentum build with each mile. The morning fog lifting under brightening sun adds a sense of magic to the trail, and together, the group rides strong, full of accomplishment, joy, and camaraderie, charging forward toward the final stretch with smiles and unstoppable energy.
Trailhead Tales – St. Charles
Rolling into St. Charles on the Katy Trail, our group passes the historic depot and its iconic caboose, a perfect snapshot of this beautiful town. The streets are buzzing with energy as preparations are underway for the weekend’s Oktoberfest, complete with a shadow box full of events and activities for visitors to enjoy. It’s a charming place to pause, soak in the sights, and feel the community spirit — even though we’ve still got 12 more miles to ride, the trail keeps calling. Every mile here combines scenery, history, and the rhythm of the ride. And as we near the end, can you feel it? That rush — all our energy, our endorphins, the excitement of what we’ve achieved — we’re stronger, buzzing, and more alive than we have the whole ride.
The Katy Trail Ride (September 22-26 2025)
After 240 miles and five incredible days on the Katy Trail, we’ve crossed the finish line at Machens, Missouri — and what a ride it’s been! Every trailhead stop, every laugh, every high-five, and every breathtaking view built up to this moment of pure joy. Along the way, we met amazing people, crossed paths with fellow riders, and shared smiles, stories, and encouragement that made the journey even richer. The towns we passed, the rivers we rode alongside, and the camaraderie of our group made every mile unforgettable. Standing here together, celebrating what we achieved, it’s impossible not to feel the thrill, the pride, and the energy that carried us all the way. We entered this trip as friends and we ended it as trail legends in our own right, with memories that will last a lifetime.
© ShauneNation 2025