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Reply to Eclipse viewing question for my parents
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KC from Austin on 8/4/2017 8:14:11 PM:
I'd like some advice from you Katy veterans. I've signed up for MO State Park's Total Eclipse Ride on the Katy. The ride goes from Rocheport to Jeff City during the eclipse. My parents (both with mobility issues) would like to watch the bike riders and the eclipse from somewhere along the trail. Any suggestions? Will the regular trail access points be too jammed with people in funny glasses?

 
Cathy from Jefferson City on 8/5/2017 1:41:17 AM:
No one knows how many people there will be, or where they will be. If your parents are determined to do this they should get to where they want to be a few hours ahead of the eclipse. The trailheads on that part of the trail are on back roads. There is an expectation that there will be major traffic jams. So if they plan to get to their spot by 10 am, that gives them time to sit in traffic. And tell them not to be disappointed if their plans fall through and they have to watch the eclipse from their car because of congestion.

 
BikerBoy from Maryville, IL on 8/5/2017 2:27:38 PM:
Would they be content sitting at one of the trailheads with toilet facilities? If so, then I would suggest Hartsburg or North Jefferson. Both those locations would also have a clear view of the sky. I agree with Cathy, if they want a spot they need to arrive early.

 
Sarah from Hartsburg on 8/5/2017 10:13:23 PM:
If you contact in keepers or businesses at those locations...they might know of safe places with handicap easy access.

 
KC from Austin on 8/6/2017 2:30:33 PM:
Thanks for the great advice everyone! We received our ride packets and Hartsburg is the official viewing spot for the cyclists on the trail, and the ride ends at North Jefferson. So both those spots might be more congested than they care to handle. I think they are going to watch from a chapel on a hill near Boonville and not go to the Katy. Oh, and here is a great video on the eclipse ... lucky central Missourians!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc7MfcKF1-s&t=24s