Day 35, Katy Trail
_ Cooper’s Landing CG MO to (Somewhere West of) Boonville MO, 45 miles_
I love the way butterflies on the trail fly up in front of you, seemingly out of nowhere. Sometimes they even flutter right in front of your face.
I got a real compliment yesterday. I was at a trail head and a fellow rolled up and got off his bike, he looked at me and said, “you can always tell a real cyclist by the way they pack their gear and the way they stand their bicycle up when they’re not on it.” I thanked him and we chatting about bicycles for some time. The reason this turned out to be such a nice compliment is that he has worked as both a mechanic and as a trained tour guide for two major bicycling tour companies.
I try and read signs. Sometimes it’s not my fault. I saw a sign on the trail that said, “Bistro and Wine Tasting: follow the path to the top of the bluff, 0.3 miles.” I followed the path to the top of the bluff. It was very steep and partially washed out. They should not have even had a sign on the trail, it was irresponsible. I labored all the way to the top and what did I find? The Bistro is closed on Tuesdays. I have to admit the view up here of the Missouri River is beautiful, so I’m going to rest and enjoy the view for awhile.
Sometimes when I look at people around me, it makes me very grateful that I’m able to undertake this journey. Not a lot of people my age are well enough to accomplish this sort of undertaking. Sometimes people I talk to are shocked when I tell them I’m crossing the country. I just say, “you don’t have to be smart to do this, just persistent.” The truth is, everyone I’ve met along the way that is doing this is both smart and persistent. I think the two go hand-in-hand.
Sidebar: You never see skinny guys in a recumbent. (But good for them.)
For me, the nicest features of the Katy Trail (in addition to the scenery) are the Historical Markers documenting the Lewis and Clark Expedition and local history. There is a placard with detailed information about the expedition every five miles or so. I have found it well worth the stops to take them in. An interesting thing about cycling is that once you start turning the pedals, you don’t want to stop. It takes conscious effort. You have to tell yourself, “Oh, there’s an historical marker, I better stop.” If you listen to that voice, you’ll be rewarded.
I stopped for a double espresso in Rocheport. Since I’m not cooking in the morning, I’m not getting my morning ration of caffeine. When I find a good espresso it’s a real treat.
There are very few tunnels on the Katy Trail, this is one of the more picturesque ones.