Jefferson City, MO., Oct. 11, 2011 – Experience the dramatic scenery of fall colors along Missouri River bluffs during the Fall Colors Tram Tours Oct. 18 and 19 on Katy Trail State Park. The two-hour round-trip tours will take visitors between Rocheport and McBaine in the comfort of a tram coach.

The nine-mile section of Katy Trail between Rocheport and McBaine is known for its fall colors along the bluffs and its striking views of the Missouri River. As riders enjoy the scenery from the open tram cars, interpretive guides will explain the natural history and cultural features along the trail. The tours are free and open to the public, with a suggested donation of $5 for adults and $3 for children aged 12 and under. Tours will be offered at 9:30 a.m., noon and 2:30 p.m. both days and begin at the trailhead in Rocheport.

The event, which commemorates Missouri Day, is co-sponsored by Missouri State Parks and Boone Electric Cooperative.

“We held our first tram tours last year and people really loved them because it gives them a new way to experience the trail. They are especially popular with those who are unable to hike or ride the trail,” said Bill Bryan, director of Missouri State Parks, a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Each tour time has four trams with each tram providing seating for 16 people. These seats can be reserved in advance by calling the Katy Trail State Park office at 573-449-7422 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Deadline for reservations is Monday, Oct. 17. A limited number of standing room only spaces will be available on a first-come, first-served basis so advanced registration is recommended.

On March 22, 1915, the 48th General Assembly set aside the third Wednesday in October each year as “Missouri Day.” Missouri Day is a time for schools to honor the state and for the people of the state to celebrate the achievements of all Missourians. This year, Missouri Day falls on Oct. 19.

For more information about the Fall Colors Tram Tours, contact Katy Trail State Park at 573-449-7422 or the Missouri Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com.