Katy "Trails" Lewis & Clark
State Project 2006-2007
Katy Trail State Park is built on the former corridor of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT) Railroad (better known as the Katy). When the railroad decided to cease operation on its route from Machens in St. Charles County to Sedalia in Pettis County in 1986, it presented the chance to create an extraordinary recreational opportunity -- a long-distance hiking and bicycling trail that would run almost 200 miles across the state.
Katy Trail State Park offers a unique opportunity for people of all ages and interests. Whether you are a bicyclist, hiker, nature lover or history buff, the trail offers opportunities for recreation, a place to enjoy nature and an avenue to discover the past.
The trail allows users to travel through some of the most scenic areas of the state. The majority of the trail closely follows the route of the Missouri River so hikers and bicyclists often find themselves with the river on one side and towering bluffs on the other.
Katy Trail State Park also takes users through a slice of rural history as it meanders through the small towns that once thrived along the railroad corridor. From the area known as "Missouri's Rhineland" that portrays the heritage of the German migrants to the historic town of Rocheport that dates from before the Civil War, these towns reflect the rich heritage of Missouri. These communities make great places to stop and explore during a ride on the trail.
The section of trail between St. Charles and Boonville has been designated as an official segment of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, and the entire trail is part of the American Discovery Trail. The trail also has been designated as a Milennium Legacy Trail.
M.S.S.C.A.R. purchased a park bench for the new extension North East of St. Charles, along the Missouri River. Katy raised $2186 for the State President's Program!! $687 was donated to the Katy Trail State Park and the rest went towards M.S.S.C.A.R. scholarships. Great job Katy!! Katy also was recognized with a Red Award - State Presidents Guidelines Winner by N.S.C.A.R.
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