Spoke Wench and JuJu...thanks for the responses. I will go to Books a Million today and look for the guidebook you suggest, JuJu.

I think my best bet is to join an Elder Hostel program to do this trail. There is a 5 and a 6 day course. For the 5 day course, they provide bikes with 21 gears. I wish I could bring my own bike...but if the bikes they provide are up to their usual standards (GREAT!!!) I'll be in good shape. I not only get a bike ride on the longest rail to trail facility in the country....I get lots of instruction as to the history of that part of Missouri. I know many of you aren't old enough to travel with Elder Hostel, but for those of you that are...here's the link:

www.elderhostel.org

There's a little something for everyone there....worldwide. This will be my fourth E.H.

Best to all:
Maureen