Since it was nice out last night I decided to check out the new bike trail in Carl Junction. It’s called the Thoms Station Trail and I became aware of it when Grant and I discovered the bridge while kayaking. As I understand it, when the Ruby Jack trail is complete it will connect to the north end of this trail. The south end of this trail is also planned to connect to another bike trail in NW Joplin that I haven’t checked out yet so I guess when all that is complete it will create about 40+ miles of continuous trail.
I had trouble finding the trail head because there really isn’t much info online about the trail or where it is located. The trail is very short, in fact it was less than 2 miles roundtrip, but it’s also still under construction. So if you are looking to spend more than 15 minutes on the trail you might be better off walking.
Here is the trail head – it’s on Allen Street in CJ between Summit and Main. It’s a rather awkward lot and would be problematic for more than 2 or 3 cars.
It’s a typical rail-to-trail setup…nice level grade with gravel.
The Center Creek bridge is certainly the highlight of the trail. I am told it is the longest non-car bridge in the state, but who knows if that’s true. Either way, it’s about 400′ long and fun to ride across.
The section crossing the river utilizes the original railroad supports.
The bridge is a nice spot to stand and enjoy the view of the river. And in this case the fall foliage and nice weather!
Currently the trail ends just past the bridge at Briarbrook Drive, but as you can see construction has started to continue the trail further south.
A nice opening along the trail as I was heading back to the trail head. This would have probably been a nice spot to view the tornado a few years ago!
That bridge is awesome. I’m glad you went to check it out.
Maybe I’m out of the loop, but why is it that everyone calls “Center Creek”, a river??? I thought it was simply stated in its name that it is a creek. Ha!
Just food for thought.