There is one spot on a long Missouri trail that is simply amazing. Nearly 150 years ago, the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad was incorporated and had rail lines that followed the Missouri River before heading into Kansas or Oklahoma. By 1990, after years of flooding and repair, the railroad (now Union Pacific) abandoned the lines and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources were quick in purchasing the land. In 1990, the first segment of the trail officially opened in Rocheport and visitors immediately fell in love with the beautiful train tunnel.
With 240 miles of trail, the Katy Trail in Missouri is the longest developed rail-trail in the country. It is also Missouri’s largest state park.
Katy Trail State Park/Facebook
Following the beautiful Missouri River, this trail runs between Clinton and Machens, Missouri. The park was created in 1990 and this year they celebrated the opening of Rock Island Spur which added an additional 47.5-miles to the trail.
Missouri State Parks Website
Yet, there is only one true rail tunnel along the trail which you can find at mile marker 178.9 in Rocheport.
Missouri State Parks Website
Constructed in 1892 for the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, this train tunnel is one of the most loved sites on the trail.
Katy Trail State Park/Facebook
The tunnel has a stone wall and a beautiful arched, brick ceiling. Many visitors are fascinated by the entrances, the eastern entrance looks like it was roughly cut into the hillside while the western entrance is framed with fine brick and stone work.
Brian Parkinson/Flickr
Riders love riding through the 243 foot long tunnel, especially during warmer months. This dark tunnel provides a cool escape from the summer sun.
Missouri State Parks Website
Katy Trail is a gorgeous, fully accessible trail all year long. So grab your bike or your walking shoes and hop on the trail for an amazing adventure in the Show Me State.
Katy Trail State Park/Facebook The closest parking lot to access the tunnel is located at 703 1st St., Rocheport.
Have you been through the train tunnel near Rocheport on the Katy Trail? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.
Katy Trail State Park/Facebook
Missouri State Parks Website
Brian Parkinson/Flickr
The closest parking lot to access the tunnel is located at 703 1st St., Rocheport.
While you’re in the small but lovely river town of Rocheport, be sure to check out the local business and area attractions before heading home!
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