Matson/Defiance, MO: St. Louis Chapter, Katy Trail 2-Day Hike

EVENT DESCRIPTION
Meet at 9:00AM at the KATY Trail Matson trailhead parking lot.

We’ll hike west to the Klondike Park entrance trail, and then hike up the blacktop paved hill to Klondike Park, around the Lake Loop Trail, up to the lookout, back down to the Katy Trail, and then back to Matson trailhead parking lot.

The hike is approximately 7 miles total. Total hiking time is approximately three hours including restroom and water breaks.

AFTER HIKE
At the conclusion of the hike, we’ll drive to Defiance Ridge Winery for lunch. The winery has ample indoor and outdoor seating to accommodate the weather and group preference.

DIRECTIONS
From Hwy 40/61:
Exit Hwy 94 and go South.
Continue through the town of Defiance (obey speed limit signs).
1.8 miles past the town of Defiance, the KATY Trail Matson trailhead parking lot will be on your right.

TRAIL
This is an easy to moderate hike on pea gravel trails and blacktop paved paths. There is one moderate ascent from the KATY trail to Klondike Park, and another one to the lookout.

WHAT TO BRING
Your pilgrim spirit
Plenty of drinking water
Seasonally appropriate clothing/rain gear
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Money to cover your lunch/winery tab

LEARN MORE
Katy Trail Matson Trailhead: mostateparks.com/location/56885/matson-trailhead
Defiance Ridge Winery: defianceridge.com