For my first endeavor, the KATY trail is an ideal route. It is very level, and is devoid of car traffic. There are many towns along this route where food, water, and lodging/camping sites are available. The plan is to ride the entire length of the KATY trail and back. If possible, the new Rock Island extension will be included.

The desire to ride the entire length of the KATY trail does pose some obstacles if you are starting from the eastern end of the trail. There just is no good place to park your car for several overnights. The Eastern Terminus at Machens, MO has no available parking. Overnight parking at the nearest KATY Trail parking lot in Black Walnut, MO appears to be risky. The same could be said for the nearest town at Portage Des Sioux. The nearest safe overnight parking at St. Charles, MO would involve a 12+ mile ride back to Machens, just to start at the beginning of the KATY trail.

I mulled over this decision for quite a while, and finally decided to take advantage of my geographical location. The KATY trail is just a short distance away, as are many other trails and routes. A reasonable car ride to Machens to drop me off, will avoid the issue of overnight parking.

The weather forecast for the week of my trip predicts temperatures in the mid 90’s. Can I pick’em, or, can I pick’em. Also, rain is predicted off and on for that week. Lovely!