Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the second longest and one of the most important rivers in the United States. Spanning 2,350 miles, the river stretches through 10 states before merging with the Gulf of Mexico. With a huge drainage area, the Mississippi carries a considerable amount of sediment throughout its length. Over centuries, the river has changed course, split and reunited, and deposited sediment in its path. This makes it very difficult to navigate, particularly for boats travelling in the upstream direction.
Navigating upstream on the Mississippi River is extremely challenging, owing to the varying current and the shallow channels caused by the river’s sediments. The strong currents, combined with wind and other factors, can push boats upstream, with speeds of up to 4 mph in some areas. However, such speeds are difficult to maintain, due to the razor-thin depths of some of the channels. The most efficient way to travel upstream is to use the reverse current rivers – a feature of the Mississippi River and its tributaries, where a lack of sediment allows the water to flow in the opposite direction.
Currents and Eddies
Boats that are travelling upstream on the Mississippi River face the challenge of navigating against the strong currents of the river, as well as its eddies – miniature whirlpools that can cause the boat to lose speed or even capsize. In addition, the currents can push boats off-course, making it difficult to stay on-track. To cope with the challenging currents, experienced river pilots rely on their knowledge of the Mississippi River and their local environment to guide the chartered boat through the toughest spots.
Navigating upstream on the Mississippi River requires using a combination of specialized navigation aids. These include maps, navigational buoys, channels, tides and currents. In addition, many riverboats employ sonar technology to detect the depth of the river and any hazards that might be in the area, such as sandbars and other boats. By carefully coordinating all of these factors, a skilled boat captain can successfully navigate the river upstream.
Upstream navigation has a number of advantages. For one, it can be faster than downstream navigation – due to the fact that there is no slowing down for eddies, or for obstacles in the riverbed. In addition, it can be more cost-effective, since there is no need to purchase expensive engine upgrades or special navigational aids. Finally, travelling upstream is a great opportunity to discover the stunning scenery and wildlife of the Mississippi River.
Conclusion
Travelling upstream on the Mississippi River is a challenging endeavor that requires skill, experience, and the right navigational tools. However, by understanding the river’s currents and eddies, and by taking advantage of navigational aids, it is possible to safely navigate the river upstream and enjoy the natural land and wildlife along the way.
Exploring the West Bank
On a boat trip upstream on the Mississippi River, one of the most interesting places to explore is the West Bank. Here, one can discover a plethora of diverse flora and fauna, including bald eagles, river otters, and white-tailed deer. From the depths of the forest to the sun-drenched banks of the river, the West Bank offers travelers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the natural beauty of the Mississippi Valley.
The Delta
The mouth of the Mississippi River is home to a phenomenon called the Delta, which is a sprawling region of marshland and barrier islands. The Delta is an ecosystem unlike any other in the world, with a unique combination of plants, animals, and habitats. Kayakers can explore the winding canals, birdwatchers can marvel at the abundance of bird species, and fishermen can catch a variety of fish species. The Delta is a sight to behold, and a must-see for anyone travelling upstream on the Mississippi River.
The Red River
A tributary of the Mississippi River, the Red River is a meandering stream that runs 702 miles through Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. In particular, the Lower Mississippi Valley is rich in historic sites, natural wonders, and wildlife. The river is popular among boaters and fishermen, and offers opportunities to experience the vibrant culture of the region. Whether it’s the haunting cry of the loon or the roar of the river, a trip up the Red River is sure to be memorable.
The Atchafalaya Basin
The Atchafalaya Basin, located in Louisiana, is the largest wetland in North America, and an important habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife. On a boat trip up the Mississippi River, travellers will be able to explore some of the most incredible scenery in the continental United States. From moss-draped cypress swamps, to sprawling riverboat towns, to bayous and river islands, the Atchafalaya Basin is an amazing tapestry of natural beauty.
The Ohio River
The Ohio River, which meanders through six states, is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River, and is full of natural and historical attractions. Starting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the river winds its way through cities such as Louisville, Kentucky, where travellers can experience the charm of the old south. The Ohio River is a great place for boating and fishing, and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, as well.
