about 82% of households reported that they use the Columbia Trail System.
Credit: Notley Hawkins
The trail system passes through a variety of settings – parks, nature sanctuaries, along creeks and through wooded areas. And there are different trail surfaces to appeal to runners, walkers, wheelers and bicyclists. Water fountains, restrooms and bike repair stations also can be found along some of the trails.
than desirable. About 2,000 riders still participated in the event, plus the music and other festivities didn’t miss a beat, Denehy noted. “We were able to see communities coming together in sandbagging efforts and also in support to individuals and businesses in need,” he said. “It was very rewarding seeing the Pedaler’s Jamboree riders still join the event last year even with the detours and change in route.” Some damage remains today, but that won’t derail this year’s Jamboree. Having ample time to plan for changes and detours helps make organizers and cyclists alike feel safe and confident in the new, temporary arrangements, Denehy said. That’s why this year’s route heads to Jefferson City instead, with an interesting twist on the last night.
Plans for the 2020 ride call for it to kick off at Flat Branch Park in Columbia and head down the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail to the Hindman Junction to the Katy Trail, which happens to mark its 30th anniversary this year. The new route will re-direct riders south on the trail. Trail-side stops that will include live music performed by regional and national acts are McBaine, Cooper’s Landing, Hartsburg and North Jefferson Park. In general, trails are part of the city’s identity. They are a major factor in the quality of life for Columbia residents. In a recent survey,
The cornerstone of the trail system is the MKT Trail, which was ranked No. 2 in the country for “Best Urban Trail” by USA Today in a recent year’s “10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.” The trail is a comfortable 10 feet wide and was built on the old MKT railroad bed. It runs for nearly nine miles before joining up with the statewide Katy Trail, which connects eastern with western Missouri and is the longest rails-to-trails project in the country.
OFF THE TRAIL For those who prefer to be on legs rather than wheels, Columbia offers a robust and widely respected disc golf scene. In fact, this year it finds itself in the national spotlight as it plays host to the Professional Disc Golf Association’s national championship. The Tim Selinske United States Masters Championship is slated for
YOU’RE SLEEPING WHERE?!
“This is the first time that a group like this will have the opportunity to spend the night voluntarily in the entire history of the Missouri State Penitentiary,” joked Jefferson City Mayor Carrie Tergin in a press release. “We think that is pretty cool!”
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Credit: Notley Hawkins
The final overnight destination is the famed Missouri State Penitentiary. While the state facility has been closed for some years, it remains a major tourist attraction. The Jamboree’s main stage festivities and camping will be hosted on-site – the latter of which is an exclusive first at the penitentiary and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, organizers say.
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