Looking for route to connect to the Katy Trail

[Margaret]

Hi All,  We just finished our second dual family bike trip ( 13 riders, ages 12-65) We did the first one on the GAP and C&O and this one was on the Erie Canal Bike Trail.  I am looking to start planning the next one- for likely next summer.  I am considering the Katy Trail but would like to make it a little longer, now that our kids are a little more seasoned riders.  On the Erie Canal we took a side trip and were off the trail on back roads fairly often so the kids got some experience cycling on real roads.  Does anyone know a good trail to connect to either western or eastern side of Katy Trail? ( it can be on the roads, as long as they are back roads-) Just want to make the trip a little longer-  I have always gotten such excellent advice here- Thanks in advance for anything you can share. 

Margaret ( in Ohio)

[BikePacker]

Does anyone know a good trail to connect to either western or eastern side of Katy Trail?

On the western and eastern side of the Katy Trail it extends as either/and : ) -

1. The Adventure Cycling Association Mapped/Documented Lewis & Clark Trail per
https://www.adventurecycling.org/routes-and-maps/adventure-cycling-route-network/lewis-clark/

2. The American Discovery Trail per - https://discoverytrail.org/the-trail/
Btw, Margaret, you will note that when y'all were doing the C&O you were at the time actually on the American Discovery Trail as well.

Hoping you will keep us posted on your research & evaluation process,
Fred.

[Margaret]

Thanks Fred- I am looking in to both of these routes- I will let you know what my thoughts are- Thanks so much!

Margaret

[aggie]

Take a look at the Eastern Express. 

https://www.easternexpressroute.com/

It has lots of trails and uses roads with low traffic.  It connects on both ends to the Katy Trail.

[Margaret]

This is awesome!  Can't wait to get a better look at these maps after work!  Thank you so much!

Margaret