Shortly after turning onto Case Road, cyclists enter the 3,520-acre Daniel Boone Conservation Area — part of Missouri’s preserved forestland celebrated for wooded hills, glades, four fishable ponds, and trails that wind through rugged valleys and wildlife habitat, perfect for birding, nature photography, or stretching legs before the climb
While the Katy Trail has been smooth and flat up to this point, once you turn onto Case Road and enter the conservation area, expect a steady climb that eventually reaches a challenging maximum grade of about 12% (you may want to walk your bike at this part) This ascent leads you up to the campground within the Conservation Area—so pace yourself, shift into a lower gear, and take short breaks if needed before reaching the ridge and the peaceful campsites above.