Ruby Jack Trail

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

There are several access points, but to maximize the distance for an out-and-back ride, start at the trailhead near the Carthage Golf Course. No services are available at any of the access points.

The Ruby Jack is a (work in process - as of June 2019) 16 mile rails-to-trail project between Carthage and the MO/KS state line. It passes mostly through flat and rolling farm land, however, most of the trail is bordered by a corridor of trees. What it lacks in noteworthy scenery, it makes up for by providing opportunities for a longer and less trafficked trail ride compared to the nearby Frisco Trail. The longest completed segment is the 9 miles between Carthage and Oronogo.

From the parking lot in Carthage, the trail travels west slightly uphill through a wooded area with occasional views of blighted property. Just west of town, the scenery opens up to rolling farmland with some trees. Near the Leggett and Platt access point is the elevation high point of the trail, after which the trail begins a slight downhill grade which continues through most of the rest of the trail.

Through Oronogo, the surrounding terrain flattens and the trail is bordered by a few residential developments and some unsightly scenery, but just west of town is a nice section of trail with a good tree canopy and a couple small rebuilt bridges. Presently, the smooth surface ends just west of the first bridge but mountain bike riders could continue past this point. There is a larger bridge between MO-43 and US-171 on the unfinished section of trail.

A short section is completed inside Carl Junction. There are plans to complete the trail surface between Oronogo and US-171 later in 2019.