Katy Trail State Park

The Katy Trail State Park is one of the nation's longest rail-trail projects—nearly 238 miles of scenic trail built especially for walkers and cyclists and stretching from Clinton east to Machens, in St. Charles County. Equestrians are allowed to use the western section of the state fairgrounds in Sedalia to Calhoun only. The trail occupies a segment of the rail corridor that once carried trains of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad (a.k.a., the Katy). In 1986 the railroad ceased operations along this route, paving the way to creating the extraordinary recreational opportunity it is today. The Katy Trail passes through some of Missouri's most scenic areas. In particular, much of the trail follows the mighty Missouri River, which features amazing bluffs. In fact, the segment that passes between St. Charles and Boonville is an official portion of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. The trail includes other landscapes as well, such as forests, wetlands, valleys, remnant prairies and rolling farm fields. Despite the changes in the landscape, the Katy Trail is relatively flat. Packing List: Venture Pal Lightweight Packable Durable Travel Hiking Backpack Daypack Fox Outfitters Ultralight Series Self Inflating Camp Pad LifeStraw Personal Water Filter Survival Gear Paracord Bracelet Compass Fire Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles