FAQ: Trail Status

The posted status is the current status. Trail status is updated as soon as possible when conditions change on the trail. If a trail status stays unchanged, this means that the trail conditions have not changed. The trail stewards check the trail conditions frequently so the status can be updated as soon as possible.  

The volunteers who update the status have the best info on trail conditions. Asking about conditions will not make conditions change more quickly! Asking on social media will not produce a different answer. Texting the trail steward, "Is it going to open later today?" makes more work for that volunteer (and annoys them).  KC trail enthusiasts watch the status, and do our best to be ready to roll, run, or hike when the status changes to Open. 

"Delayed" status can mean one of several things. If the status is "delayed," always read the details. For instance, it may mean that a trail is temporarily closed (as for a race day). It may mean that parts of the trail are open and parts are closed, or that freeze-thaw rules apply. It can also mean that the status change is waiting for an on-site inspection, and might change soon. Please follow all status instructions included in a "Delayed" status.

We suggest exploring the local paved path and gravel route options when singletrack trails are closed. The Kansas City area has no sustainable "mud" trails. Our clay soils rut and pool water when used in mud, and when the ruts dry, the trail surface becomes bumpy, uneven, and unpleasant to ride, hike, or run.

Please talk with your local volunteer trail stewards. (Trail work days and trail social media pages are two avenues.) We appreciate those volunteers who commit their daily time to protect the trail when it is not ready to ride, hike, or run.