Question about Katy Trail and rain

[PeanutButterShammyCream]

I am going to be on the Katy Trail tomorrow, and it is supposed to rain for  the next three days. I am carrying 65 pounds of gear, and my tires are not good in dirt. Do you guys think that the trail will get soft and difficult to ride, considering the forecast? Also, are there roads that go parallel to the trail that I could ride on? Thanks!

[John Nettles]

Yes.  I have ridden it when it was slightly damp, not even raining, and it slowed me down by 20% I am guessing.  Sorry.  There are roads in some places but not all are suitable for touring.  Check out MOBIKE Federation for their online maps.

[PeanutButterShammyCream]

How long would you say it takes to dry out after a couple days of rain?

[aggie]

John is right on.  The trail is maintained better is some parts than in others.  I rode it with 30's when it was dry with no problems other than just slowing me down.  Some parts do have more loose material on the surface that will slow you down and get on everything.   In some parts there are roads that parallel the trail but not all.  The roads will also have small hills that you miss on the trail.  You can see parts of the trail where cyclists created ruts when it was wet.  The trail has a lot of shade.  It may take several days to completely dry out but it will still be able to ride on it.  I rode it north of Sedalia right after a rainstorm with no problems. 

Try to find a way to clean your chain after riding the trail.  You will be surprised how much grit gets stuck to it.