Caitlan Hester

Caitlan Hester is a freelance travel writer and the founder of Backroad Weekly, a newsletter that helps thousands of readers discover Southeast Missouri. She also serves as a weekly travel contributor for NPR member station KRCU.

More From Caitlan Hester

I Took a Mountain Bike Skills Clinic at 37. Here’s What I Learned.

A Wheels Up MTB clinic at Crestwood Park teaches adult riders the fundamentals on flat ground, with no trail experience needed.

By Caitlan Hester

October 16, 2026