Newly reliable Missouri Amtrak service a great option for cross-state travel

MBF partner Let's Go KC reports that after a few years of problems, Amtrak's River Runner service is once again running reliably on time. It's a great option for traveling between Kansas City and St. Louis, accessing Katy Trail State Park, or events like the State Fair in Sedalia, Octoberfest in Hermann, and Bicycle Day at the Capitol in Jefferson City.

The River Runner is one of only two Amtrak routes that allow unboxed bicycles to be rolled aboard (with a reservation). This special service was initiated in the 1990s under the leadership of the Missouri Bicycle Federation in cooperation with Amtrak and the Missouri Department of Transportation. Normally Amtrak requires bikes to be boxed and shipped as freight.

Through the end of 2009 the River Runner is running a special 50% discount on companion fares (PDF). Recent improvements include investments in track infrastructure by the State of Missouri, improved scheduling by Union Pacific, and closer regulation by the Feds.