The Longest Rail Trail In The U.S., Katy Trail In Missouri Is A Bucket List Adventure

Got your bucket list handy? You might want to pull it out, especially if you’re up – now or in the future – for an epic adventure that will take you right across the state. Even if a long haul hike or bike ride doesn’t sound appealing to you, you can still enjoy the trail's scenic beauty by traveling along just a portion of Katy Trail in Missouri.

Katy Trail meanders nearly 240 miles across Missouri, from Machens to Clinton, earning it recognition as the longest rail trail in the United States. You can hike or bike the entire trail or jump on and off at any of the 26 trailheads.

The majority of the picturesque trail is handicap accessible. While motorized vehicles are not allowed on the trail, electric golf carts, Segways, and “electrically powered mobility devices for persons with disabilities” are permitted.

The rail trail follows what was once the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, which was referred to as MKT (or Katy, for short) and travels along the Missouri River for much of its path.

Katy Trail travels through such charming Missouri towns as St. Charles, Portland, and Columbia. Here are the trailheads and the services found at each.

Chances are you’ll find stops that meet your interests, too, as you can jump off of the path to explore the more than two dozen wineries, antique shops, restaurants, and around 80 bed and breakfasts.

If you prefer roughing it to an enchanting B&B or a hotel, pitch a tent at one of the designated camping areas along the trail. Find a list of designated camping areas on the Katy Trail.

Your journey will also bring you to several restored train stations, including the Katy Depot and Railroad Heritage Museum in Sedalia. Definitely carve out time to visit at least one of the train stations.

Plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you want to travel the entire trail. Keep in mind that restrooms and water at trailheads are not available between November 1 and April 1 annually.

Learn more on the official website of Katy Trail State Park. Or, check out the trail map on All Trails.

Have you hiked some or all of Katy Trail in Missouri? Do you have any advice for other hikers? Let us know in the comments! For a short but sweet trail, travel along the Missouri River Trail.