Last updated: October 7, 2026
Thing to Do
Bike the Katy Trail
NPS / McCarthy
Katy Trail State Park is a linear state park, running 240 miles across the state of Missouri between Clinton and Machens. Known as the country's longest continuous rail-trail, it attracts cyclists, walkers, equestrians, nature lovers, and history buffs seeking adventure along the Missouri River.
The park was built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (MKT or Katy), and features a hard, crushed limestone trail that gently winds through some of the most scenic areas of the state. Trail users pass under shady forest canopies, striking river bluffs, and through open farmlands and pastoral towns that developed alongside the railroad.
With informative exhibits at every trailhead and many locations in between, visitors will enjoy learning about the rich cultural history of the region. Stop at the Old Franklin Townsite, eastern terminus of Santa Fe National Historic Trail, or follow the many Lewis and Clark historical markers that highlight the expedition's early days along the Missouri River, after departing Camp River Dubois in May, 1804.
Trace the Path of Lewis and Clark
The trail follows the route of the Corps of Discovery for roughly two thirds of its length, before it diverges from the Missouri River and heads south at Boonville. Connect with stories and events documented in the expedition's journals with with a series of trail-side exhibits at significant Lewis and Clark sites.
The Katy Trail passes near five High Potential Historic Sites on Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail:
- Moniteau Creek at Manitou Bluffs
- Sugar Loaf Rock
- Clark's Hill State Historic Site
- Tavern Cave
- St. Charles Historic District
Biking Tips
The relatively flat grade makes this trail accessible to people of all ages and abilities. It is recommended that you always wear a helmet and bring spare tubes, a patch kit, and a portable bike pump in case of a flat tire. Many, but not all trailheads offer restroom facilities and water. Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially in the spring and summer months. Restrooms and water are turned off at all sites from November through March.
Many lodging and campsite options are available from the trail for those planning a multiday adventure.
For trail conditions, advisories, and other information, visit the Katy Trail State Park website.
Getting There
Train
Amtrak runs train service between Kansas City and St. Louis via Missouri River Runner, which roughly follows the path of Katy Trail State Park. This provides a convenient option for shuttling to/from certain access points on the trail.
Be sure to add any bicycles you will be traveling with when booking tickets for an additional fee.
Learn about Gateway Arch Trails & Rails Program.
Shuttle Service
There are many options for shuttle services along the Katy Trail. For more information, visit the Katy Trail Travel Guide website.
Driving
Free parking is available at trailheads. If leaving a vehicle for an extended period of time, contact the Katy Trail State Park office at 573-449-7402 and provide staff with the vehicle make, model and license plate number as well as contact information and length of stay.
Details
Duration
0-7 Days
A short leisure ride, a weeklong adventure, or anywhere in between. It typically takes 5-7 days to complete the entire 240 mile trek from Clinton to Machens, depending on your experience, frequency of stops, etc.
Activity
Biking
The most popular way to experience the Katy Trail is on a bicycle. Begin your journey from any of the 27 trailheads.
Equestrians, walkers, wheelchair users, and Class 1 e-bikes are welcome on the trail.
Age(s)
All ages are welcome.
Pets Allowed
Yes
State park regulations require leashed pets. Be considerate of other trail users and adjoining landowners.
Activity Fee
No
The trail is free and open to the public.
Location
Trailheads
Clinton
Calhoun
Windsor - Rock Island Trail State Park, a spur to Pleasant Hill
Green Ridge
Sedalia - Amtrak (Sedalia), Sedalia Katy Depot
Clifton City
Pilot Grove
Boonville - River, Rails, and Trails Museum
New Franklin
Rocheport
Hindman Junction - Columbia spur
McBaine
Hartsburg
North Jefferson - Jefferson City spur, Amtrak (Jefferson City), Missouri State Museum
Tebbetts
Mokane
Portland
McKittrick - Amtrak (Hermann)
Treloar - Ted and Pat Jones Welcome Center at Treolar Mercantile
Marthasville
Dutzow - Amtrak (Washington)
Augusta
Matson
Weldon Spring
Greens Bottom
Saint Charles - Lewis and Clark Boat House and Museum
Machens
Reservations
No
Reservations to access the trail are not required. However, campsite and lodging reservations are recommended if you are planning a multi-day trip.
Season
Year Round
The trail is open year round. Restrooms and water unavailable at some trailheads November through March.
Time of Day
Day
The trail is open sunrise to sunset.
Accessibility Information
Most of the trail is ADA and wheelchair accessible.
Contact Katy Trail State Park for more information.