The Katy Trail spans 7 miles from Downtown Tulsa to Sand Springs. This portion of the trail is marked by mile markers every ½ mile (markers are oriented so that the distance is measured from east to west beginning near Archer & Lawton Avenue in downtown Tulsa). There are several water fountains located along the route. Because of the history of the trail as a railroad right-of-way, the trail is a very easy grade. Parts of the trail feature canopies, creating much-needed shade in the summer. Spur trails connect neighborhoods along the trail which allow neighborhood residents to enjoy the features of the trail. The trail also has a spur near 41st West Ave to Zeigler Park.

Going from downtown Tulsa, the trail generally follows the US-64/412 corridor to the north and west Tulsa neighborhoods to the south. The Riverparks Authority maintains the trail from Tulsa to Adams Road in Sand Springs, and the City of Sand Springs maintains the remainder of the trail, terminating in River City Park.

At Gilcrease Museum Road, the trail splits. The south leg connects to the Newblock Park Trail. This will lead to the beginning of the Riverparks East Trail at 11th Street.

The north leg of the Y (to the left if traveling to Tulsa) will lead to an area behind the Tulsa County Jail near Archer Street in downtown Tulsa. The leg connecting to the Tulsa Co. Jail offers some great views of the downtown Tulsa skyline along the way.

The trail serves downtown Sand Springs via Main Street. This main street area is a great place to stop and ride as a short detour. There is 9-hour parking available near the trail crossing at Main Street and US-64/412.