Near MKT Trail
Cells of the wetland system
Near MKT Trail
West alignment of loop trail, looking Eastward. Divides wetlands and bottom land woods habitat, on the left.
Near MKT Trail
Drone footage, looking due west. M-K-T trail to the left of photo, loop trail and Forum Connector to the center right.
Near MKT Trail
Sample of site-wide interpretive sign
Near MKT Trail
3M Wetlands - View from M-K-T trail of covered observation platform

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

MKT Trail

5.0 (4 Ratings)
A scenic trail that follows the old rail-bed of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railway.
9
mi
Distance
45
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
BirdingFall ColorsRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
8.99mi
Distance
45ft
Elevation Gain
166ft
Elevation Loss
10%
Max Grade
699ft
High Point
565ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The backbone of Columbia's ever-expanding trail system is the popular 8.9-mile MKT Trail. This 10-foot-wide, crushed limestone surfaced trail built on the old rail-bed of the MKT railroad begins in downtown Columbia in Flat Branch Park and connects with the 250-mile cross-state Katy Trail. The MKT Trail routes through beautiful landscapes, including wooded hillsides and attractive rock formations, with various trailside attractions along the way. Three trailheads offer parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. The MKT Trail derives its name from its predecessor--the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railway.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Josh Adams