Rolla, MO
The ride between St James and Rolla is entirely on the service road next to I-44. But it has a hilly and curvy terrain that is a lot more fun to ride than the Interstate. Plus, the ride into town passes through a very nice rural neighborhood. Don't try to make up time by taking the highway. You'll miss a lot!
Rolla is half way between St Louis and Springfield. It is a large town that has lost some of its Route 66 atmosphere, but the Totem Pole Trading Post still operates on the Outer Road along I-40. It has been in operation since 1933 and has been at its current location since 1977.
Downtown also features the 1860 Phelps County Jail, which was used by Union forces during the civil war for both military and civilian prisoners. This stone structure remained in use as a jail until 1912.
Downtown also features the 1857 Dillon Log House, which was the area's first courthouse.
The Trail of Tears, in which Cherokees were forced to relocate from their homes in Georgia to reservations, passed through Rolla.
Keep a lookout for the Mule Trading Post with its giant Hillbilly with swinging arms. This statue originally was at the Munger Moss Sandwich Shop in Devil's Elbow.
From Rolla, go right on Bus 44 at the Junction of Kings Highway (Be careful, it is an easy turn to miss) - Before I-44 Exit 184, go around the traffic near the Totem Pole Trading Post onto Martin Springs Drive/Outer Rd - Cross the Hwy T Junction - Outer Road will become Eisenhower St - Follow Eisenhower St to Doolittle.
After crossing I-44 out of Rolla, go a bit less than a mile and turn right on Route 66 just past the "Northywe" sign, near the KIA Kingdom Store - After about a quarter of a mile, be careful to bear left with Route 66 (if you accidentally go right you will be on a dead end road) - Go through the Stop sign by Love's Truck Stop - Follow North Outer Rd to St James
View Route66mc.com - Rolla to St. James in a larger map
