or mud slick during the spring thaw. Along the route, most of the old railroad bridges have been replaced with sleeker pedestrian and bike-minded spans. Of those, only one bridge is truly annoying. It has metal approach ramps, short steel flaps that ease the bumps when wheeling onto and off of the bridge deck. But when bike tires hit the steel flaps, they clang like railroad wheels and probably irritate homeowners in the neighborhood. Along the way, 20 workout stations used to offer fitness training. They’ve disappeared, yanked in favor of a single workout facility — an outdoor weight room with multiple stations — adjacent to the Stadium Boulevard parking lot. There’s a loop trail just for hikers and runners. Scattered along the trail are several displays identifying the wildflowers, trees and geologic formations along the route. Even in the heart of the city, along the trail, wildlife is abundant. Geese fly overhead, and the music you hear could be from the songbirds, or the billion tree frogs performing their courtship rituals. The trail’s natural setting makes it an odds-on bet you’ll spot deer, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. They like the pastoral setting, too. And they sense that trail users are friendly. You’ll get a glimpse of Mizzou’s A.L. Gustin Golf Course. Don’t worry — you’re far enough away from all but the worst golfers, so you shouldn’t hear that foreboding “Fore!” Further down the trail, stop and watch a lacrosse game at one of the soccer fields. Need a rest? Several dozen park benches await you, donated by local citizens. Or take some time to reflect at the beautifully restored Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial at Battle Garden, located on a bend in Flat Branch Creek near the trail’s Stadium Boulevard access. And if you don’t want to ride or hike the whole spur, there are convenient parking lots along the trail at Stadium Boulevard, Forum Boulevard and Scott Boulevard. Fact is, along the entire trail, you’re always well-connected. Downtown Columbia is a great reward for finishing an exhilarating bike ride. But it’s also the perfect place to load up on carbs for your next trip back down the MKT Trail. While you’re strapping on the feedbag, my safetyminded friends remind you to strap on something else: Wear a helmet. october 2013 inside columbia
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