Big Muddy Speaker Series presents:

This presentation originally took place on Tuesday, May 10th, 2025 in Columbia, Missouri.

Hosted by Missouri River Relief

Guidebook author and river guide Brett Dufur shared his knowledge and infectious passion for getting outside in Mid-Missouri. Through reading his original poems about the Missouri River, sharing his most magical spots along the Katy Trail, and making a case for getting involved in the development of the Rock Island Trail, Brett compelled his audience to enjoy the wonders in our own backyards.

Brett highlighted the Katy Trail State Park, which is America’s Longest Rails to Trails Project at 240 miles long. Biking the entire Katy Trail is an “Everyperson’s Everest” challenge. His guidebook, now in its 11th edition, has been a handy resource for cyclists exploring the trail for 30 years.

Brett also shared tips for exploring the Missouri River by canoe and kayak. As a river guide with Mighty Mo Canoe Rentals, he guided floats on the Missouri River for 15 years.

And last but not least, for trail lovers, Brett recently wrote a new guidebook to Missouri’s Rock Island Trail, and is eager to encourage folks to explore the 60 miles that are open, and the 144 miles that will be developed, creating the 4th longest rails to trails project. Once completed, the Katy Trail and Rock Island Trails will create a world-class 450-mile biking loop through unique, picturesque, historic and unforgettable towns and countryside all around Mid Missouri. The Rock Island Trail is awaiting more funding, so getting the trail completed will require advocacy work, and Brett will show you how to get involved to help shape Missouri’s outdoor future.