Missouri Bicycle News

Like the path that goes from Webb City through the City of Joplin, the Ruby Jack Trail will eventually be 10 feet wide, with the same “three-eighths screenings” surface that is used on the Katy trail. Grundy said the path is great for walking, jogging, running and biking, with a softer surface that is more forgiving on feet and knees than asphalt, and no cars to avoid since no motorized vehicles will be permitted on the path.

The Joplin Trails Coalition's easment extends 50 feet on both sides of the old railroad bed.

Although the existing path runs only west from the west edge of Carthage, the Burlington Northern railroad running east of Carthage may potentially become a trail as well, leading to Reeds, Sarcoxie and Pierce City.

If the railroad track going along the north side of town is also included, the path can potentially be tied in to recreational areas along Walnut Bottoms, Kellogg Lake and the Battle of Carthage State Park.

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