The best gravel rides around Pierpont
4.4
(5)
64
riders
8
rides
Gravel biking around Pierpont offers routes primarily along converted rail trails, featuring a mix of crushed limestone and natural surfaces. The terrain is generally gentle, following river corridors and passing through woodlands and open agricultural areas. These routes are characterized by minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for various skill levels. The landscape includes river views and sections through natural reserves.
Best gravel bike trails around Pierpont
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Burr Oak Big Tree – Torbett…
Last updated: November 9, 2026
5.0
(1)
25
riders
88.4km
04:35
160m
160m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
9
riders
83.3km
04:24
240m
240m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.4
(5)
16
riders
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
83.1km
04:26
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
7
riders
20.3km
01:12
90m
90m
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
This small village was named after early settler Luther D. Hart, who sold land to the Missouri–Kansas–Texas Railroad in the late 1800s. The trail runs near downtown, where you’ll spot historic buildings like the 1897 Samuel E. Hackman Building. While in-town options are limited, the Claysville Store—about 4 miles east—offers homemade meals and restrooms on weekends. Hartsburg also borders the Hart Creek Conservation Area, adding natural beauty to this quiet stretch of trail.
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A charming self‑serve stand just off the trail offering cold drinks, ice cream, jams, jellies, farm‑fresh eggs, and sunflower seeds for feeding birds. Operated on the honor system—just drop in a few small bills and enjoy a sweet, unexpected trailside pause.
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Stop near mile marker 163 on the Katy Trail to see Boathenge—a circle of upright fiberglass boats arranged like Stonehenge on the Missouri River floodplain. Built in the 1990s, it’s easy to spot near Cooper’s Landing.
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The Big Burr Oak is estimated to be over 350 years old! It’s one of the oldest and largest bur oaks in the country, standing about 90 feet tall with a massive spread.
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Hinkson Woods offers a leafy escape just off the MKT Trail. Enjoy 2 miles of mown multi-use paths winding through forest and open grasslands along Hinkson Creek. The trail links up with the university rec trail and provides easy access to nearby Grindstone Nature Area and MKT system—giving you plenty of options for loop rides.
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Flat Branch Park is where the MKT Trail starts. It’s an easy, mostly flat crushed-limestone path through shady green space that links to the Katy Trail.
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On June 6, 1804, the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped on the starboard side of the Missouri River after a challenging day navigating strong currents and eroding banks. Earlier, they passed notable landmarks including Split Rock Creek and Saline Creek, the latter known for its salt springs. The day's journey was marked by the river rising a foot overnight and the crew's efforts to mend the barge's mast before setting out.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are there in Pierpont?
There are 7 gravel bike trails around Pierpont documented on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route and 6 moderate routes, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Pierpont?
Gravel biking around Pierpont primarily features routes along converted rail trails, characterized by crushed limestone and natural surfaces. The terrain is generally gentle with minimal elevation changes, often following river corridors and passing through woodlands and open agricultural areas. This makes for accessible rides with scenic river views and sections through natural reserves.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking routes in Pierpont?
Yes, the generally gentle terrain and minimal elevation changes of Pierpont's rail trails make many routes suitable for families. For an easy option, consider the 3M Wetlands Overlook – MKT Trail loop from Columbia, which is 11.7 miles (18.8 km) long and takes about an hour to complete.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for on Pierpont's gravel trails?
The trails often follow river corridors, providing picturesque river views. You'll also pass through woodlands and natural reserves. The MKT Trail – Burr Oak Big Tree loop from Twin Lakes Recreation Area, for example, passes by natural landmarks and through varied parkland scenery. Keep an eye out for highlights like Bonne Femme Creek and sections of the Katy Trail Along the Missouri River.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Pierpont?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in Pierpont are designed as loops. A popular circular option is the MKT Trail – Hindman Junction (entry to Katy trail from MKT trail) loop from University of Missouri, which is 30.0 miles (48.3 km) long and connects two significant rail trails.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Pierpont?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from 4 reviews. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained rail trails, the gentle gradients, and the scenic beauty of riding along river corridors and through natural areas.
Are there any longer, more challenging gravel routes for experienced riders?
While most routes are moderate, some offer a longer distance for a more extended challenge. The Burr Oak Big Tree – Torbett Spring loop from Beulah Ralph Elementary is a substantial 51.6 miles (83.1 km) trail that leads through rural landscapes and along established rail trails, typically taking around 4 hours 20 minutes.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest near the gravel bike trails?
Along and near the gravel bike trails in Pierpont, you can discover several interesting points. The MKT Trail itself is a significant landmark, and you might encounter unique features like Boathenge. For those interested in natural wonders, the Devil's Icebox is also nearby.
Can I find routes that combine different sections of the MKT Trail?
Absolutely. Many routes in Pierpont leverage the extensive MKT Trail. For instance, the MKT Trail – Boathenge loop from Columbia is a 41.0 miles (65.9 km) route that integrates different sections of the MKT Trail, offering a comprehensive experience of this popular path.
What is the typical difficulty level of gravel biking in Pierpont?
The gravel biking routes in Pierpont are generally considered accessible. Out of the 7 available routes, 1 is rated as easy, and 6 are rated as moderate. This indicates that while most routes are manageable for a good fitness level, they don't typically involve extreme technical challenges or steep climbs, making them enjoyable for a wide range of riders.
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