Whether you are a biker, hiker, or a road warrior, there are many great ways to experience the Katy Trail. You can even ride a horse on two of the segments! My in-laws have almost completed biking the entire trail over the past several years. This has given me a glimpse into the amazing places you can stop to stay, eat, and see along the Katy Trail.
Not only are there some great towns to discover, like Joplin and Rocheport, but you’ll also learn about the history and geography of the trail itself. This post will take you on a mini journey to get you ready for your own adventure on the Katy Trail. (Fun fact, the Katy Trail is on Kim’s Missouri Bucket List!) Let’s go!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.
What is the Katy Trail?
The Katy Trail opened in 1990 and spans 237.5 miles across most of the state of Missouri. It runs from St. Louis to 75 miles southeast of Kansas City in Clinton. More than half of the trail runs alongside Lewis and Clark’s route along the Missouri River.
On the half of the trail that diverges from the river, you’ll be taken through small towns, farmland, and wooded areas. The trail is named after the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) railroad that had a line through Missouri. MKT was referred to in train timetables and on the stock exchange as ‘K-T’. The Katy Trail is America’s longest “rails-to-trail” which means it was formerly a railroad route that is now a trail.
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All miles listed below correspond to the original MKT Railroad mile numbers. They run from the Eastern end in Machens (Mile 0) to the Western End in Clinton (Mile 237.5).
Places To Stay Along The Katy Trail
Lucky for anyone traveling along the Katy Trail, it passes through nearly 35 cities and towns. While not all of them have accommodations, many do. Depending on the type of accommodations you’re looking for, here are some great options:
Glamping St. Louis
St. Charles, MO (Mile 39.5)
You’ll find glamping tents and cottages along the River with options for boating, fishing, and toasting marshmallows.
Merry House Inn
Defiance, MO (Mile 59.1)
This three-suite inn has been recently renovated and is gorgeous.
Lindenhof Bed & Breakfast
Augusta, MO (Mile 66.4)
This four-room Victorian bed and breakfast serves up a delicious range of breakfast dishes. They are also located within walking distance of the Augusta Winery, Mount Pleasant Winery, and Good News Brewing Co.
Half-Corked Inn
Hermann, MO (Mile 100.8)
The all brick inn is located two miles off of the Katy Trail in the heart of the Historical District of Hermann. They offer two luxury-style loft apartments for rent.
Baymont by Wyndham Jefferson City
Jefferson City, MO (Mile 143.2)
The Baymont Inn and Suites is located in the historic Old Munichburg district of downtown Jefferson City. The Inn is close to the Katy Trail State Park.
Cooper's Landing
Easley, MO (Mile 162.5)
This year-round campground is located right on the Katy Trail and offers a full-service marina on the Missouri River, a campground (RV and tent), a store, and a live music venue.
School House Bed & Breakfast
Rocheport, MO (Mile 178.3)
This beautiful bed and breakfast is housed in a school built in 1914 that used to be a four-room school for 1st-12th graders.
Katy Junction Bed & Breakfast
Pilot Grove, MO (Mile 203.3)
This bed and breakfast offers warm, small-town hospitality in a home away from home.
Attractions & Landmarks on the Katy Trail
Whether you need a quick stop or want a longer break from the bike ride, here are some notable attractions to visit along the Katy Trail.
Katy Trail State Park
Incredibly, this park runs along the length of the Katy Trail. With 26 trailheads with information and history of the trail, along with four fully restored railroad depots, you’ll find plenty to explore along the trail.
Historic Daniel Boone Home
Defiance, MO (Mile 59.1)
Visit the childhood home of Daniel Boone and travel back in time to early 1800s pioneer living.
Lake Creek Winery
Marthasville, MO (Mile 77.7)
Lake Creek Winery is housed in a remodeled 1860s farmhouse on top of the river bluffs. They offer live music, German food, and wine on their covered deck and patio.
Missouri State Penitentiary
Jefferson City, MO (Mile 143.2)
The Missouri State Penitentiary was operational from 1836-2004. Now they offer history, ghost, and photography tours.
Boathenge
Easley, MO (Mile 162.5)
You’ve heard of Stonehenge. This is a rural town’s lawn art that recreates that using boats along the Katy Trail.
Mitchell Antique Motorcar Museum
Boonville, MO (Mile 191.8)
This museum houses the largest collection of Antique Mitchell Motorcars and Wagons in the world, circa 1904 to the 1920s. It includes memorabilia and antiques that highlight the car’s history.
Daum Museum of Contemporary Art
Sedalia, MO (Mile 229)
Located on the campus of State Fair Community College, you’ll find an impressive collection of modern art from artists like Andy Warhol, Dale Chihuly, and Helen Frankenthaler.
Henry County Museum
Clinton, MO (Mile 264.6)
Located in a renovated Anheuser-Busch Distribution Center, you’ll find a museum that features a genealogy library, history of the county, and rotating exhibits. Open April-November.
Places To Eat Along The Katy Trail
Bike Stop Cafe
St. Charles, MO (Mile 39.5)
This business has become an institution among Katy Trail bikers and travelers alike. They serve a healthy menu in a riverside setting.
In addition to the cafe, they also operate a bakery, a bike shop, rent bikes, and provide shuttles along the trail so you can leave your car and hit the trail.
KT Caboose
Marthasville, MO (Mile 77.7)
The KT Caboose is a seasonal business that offers outdoor seating.They offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ice cream. They also offer camping.
Meriwether Cafe & Bike Shop
Rocheport, MO (Mile 178.3)
Serving up housemade classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner using locally sourced ingredients. You can also rent bikes including tandems from them.
Rock Island Cafe
Leeton, MO (Mile 226.8)
A hometown cafe serving up comfort foods for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Kehde's Barbeque
Sedalia, MO (Mile 229)
This family establishment has been serving customers since 1955. You’ll find a great selection of BBQ meats, sandwiches, and vegetarian options like fried mushrooms and cheesy cauliflower.
Wyoming Street Wine Stop
Pleasant Hill, MO (Mile 262.8)
Located at the Western end of the Katy Trail, you’ll find this charming business where you can toast the end of your journey (or the beginning) with a glass of wine or craft beers. They also serve pizza, salads, paninis, cheese boards, and more.
The Vintage Restaurant at Stone Hill
Hermann, MO (Mile 100.8)
Located on the property of the Stone Hill Winery (which you should also visit and tour), this restaurant serves up some very authentic German food. Perfect for if you’ve been active or just enjoying the drive across the state.
There are certainly many more places to see, play, and stay along the Katy Trail. For an easy trip planner, check out this customized itinerary planning tool from the team at Bike Katy Trail. Happy trails!
About the guest blogger
Jenn Beard is the founder of Cocktails Away—a collection of adventures in pursuit of a great drink, a quality spirit, a unique ingredient, and the places they come from. When not traveling, she lives in Kansas City. Check out her blog for mouthwatering recipes and insider tips on DIY bartending and cocktail culture or travel to bars around the world at @cocktailsaway.