Bike the Katy Trail, America's longest rails-to-trails project through Missouri's heartland, built on the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad Corridor from St. Charles to Clinton. Enjoy scenic beauty, often with the Missouri River on one side and bluffs on the other. Learn from experts including historians, government representatives, and winery staff. Along the route and in background sessions, become acquainted with flora and fauna, MKT Railroad history, the Missouri River, and the route of Lewis and Clark. Explore Missouri history and small town lore; the battle for state capital between St. Charles and Jefferson City; and famous figures such as Daniel Boone. Highlights include Tavern Cave, visited by Lewis & Clark; petroglyphs; Osage Indians; colorful towns including Hermann, a German settlement; and historic downtown St. Charles. Enjoy dinner at two wineries and discuss German immigration and the thriving wine industry.

Bicycling 25-30 miles, 4-6 hours a day at speed of 7-8 mph. Dedicated bike trail; generally flat terrain (4 percent maximum grade). Group bicycling with pacesetter, sweep rider and sag wagon. Standard 21-speed bicycles provided; bring own helmet. Group size limited to 23.

Program in association with St. Charles Community College.

Itinerary

Arrival St. Charles, coach to Columbia, 2 nights; bike to Jefferson City, 1 night; bike to Hermann, 1 night; bike to St. Charles, 1 night; departure.

Columbia (Missouri)

Artsy and eclectic describe Columbia's downtown, known as The District. It's the cultural epicenter of this sophisticated university town, where you can rediscover Lewis and Clark's journey to explore the Louisiana Purchase and learn about John William "Blind" Boone, one of Missouri's three famous ragtime composers and piano players.