Kayaking is one of those activities that can be enjoyed by adventurers of all skill levels. But what about tackling the biggest US waterway? Are you up for the challenge? Is it even possible to kayak the entire Mississippi River?
In theory, yes. The Mississippi River runs for a staggering 2,340 miles, starting in Minnesota and running south through 10 states until it empties out into the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. It is true that kayaking the entire Mississippi is possible, but it would be an adventure of epic proportions.
Taking on the mighty Mississippi would require significant preparation. Undoubtedly, the most important factor of preparation would be the kayaking experience and skill level of the individual attempting the challenge. This is because of the unpredictability of the river’s current, not to mention its size and distance. People can and do kayak long distances, but few attempt anywhere near the magnitude of the Mississippi.
No matter what level of kayak experience you have, tackling the Mississippi will require skill and knowledge of the river itself. Understanding the riverbank is as important as knowing what’s in the water. Things like speed, turbulence, strainers (structures such as fallen trees in the water which, depending on the size, can force a kayaker onto the bank), the temperature of the water, the presence of manmade dams, and even the wildlife in the river must be taken into consideration.
Kayaking the Mississippi is most definitely possible, as there are actually people who have kayaked along the full length of the river. But it is not recommended for inexperienced paddlers or those looking for a short distance journey. In addition to being aware of the natural elements of the river, it’s important to note that the entire length of it is not possible to kayak. The Upper Mississippi is too shallow and the Lower Mississippi is dotted with dams, making it impossible to continuously kayak down its length.
Planning A Mississippi River Kayak Trip
For those looking to paddle the Mississippi, there are several planning considerations to factor in. Firstly, when deciding where to start and/or end, it’s important to choose a spot that will be accessible to launch and land. This means researching the terrain and potential obstacles like dams, locks, and other impediments such as waterfalls. All of these can make the journey much harder and more time-consuming. Additionally, paddlers should be mindful of nearby towns, police protection, and emergency services.
Once the route has been outlined, the details of the journey should be planned; from packing the appropriate supplies to ensuring that the food and water needs of the kayaker will be met along the way. Experienced paddlers should also ensure they bring solar or battery-powered electronics as well as flares in case of an emergency.
Finally, the all-important financials should be secured. Rafting the Mississippi is not cheap. All the gear and supplies needed for the trip can cost a small fortune. However, some experienced paddlers can find cheap gear and supplies, including kayaks, in classified ads or on Craigslist. Savvy paddlers may find that they are able to recoup some of the costs along the journey.
What To Expect While Kayaking The Mississippi River
Kayakers venturing on a journey down the Mississippi River can expect to experience a range of landscapes, from rugged hills to verdant wetlands. Landmarks can also be found along the way. From heartland metropolises like St. Louis to busting port towns like Memphis, the Mississippi River has been witness to the United States’ development and growth over the centuries.
In addition to getting a unique perspective of the US landscape and landmarks, visitors may be lucky enough to experience firsthand the amazing wildlife that call the Mississippi home. The Lower Mississippi River is a wide and slow-moving stretch of water, making it an ideal habitat for a variety of different plants and animals. In fact, the Mississippi provides a home to over 260 species of fish, over 200 species of birds, and dozens of other fascinating creatures like otters, beavers, muskrats and turtles.
In addition to the natural sights and creatures, those who are kayaking the Mississippi can also experience some of the best manmade attractions and cuisine of the region-like the gumbo in New Orleans. In its entirety, being able to kayak the Mississippi river would give someone a unique experience of the United States. It would be a journey to remember.
The Pros And Cons Of Kayaking The Mississippi River
Although it takes skill, determination, and confidence, kayaking the Mississippi River would be an experience worthy of the effort. But with any major undertaking, there are pros and cons to consider.
The main advantage of kayaking the Mississippi would be gaining an appreciation of nature-the views, the sights, the wildlife, and just the sheer majesty of the river. Being able to take in the unique beauty of this historic river and its many tributaries is something that few people get to experience. It’s also an adrenaline rush- the thrill of tackling such a massive waterway is a big part of its appeal.
On the other hand, the journey can be dangerous and requires a great deal of preparation and planning. In addition, professional rescue services can be more difficult to access in a number of states, so it’s important for kayakers to be very aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety.
The environment and terrain of the Mississippi can also be physically demanding. The length of the trip would often require long hours of paddling with few rest stops. It is also important to bear in mind that the river is subject to unexpected changes in weather and river levels, requiring flexible planning and the ability to adapt as conditions dictate.
Preparing For An Expedition: Physical Exercise and Training
A paddler looking to tackle such an impressive distance should prepare adequately, and this includes a solid exercise regimen. Regular workouts and physical training will contribute to a successful kayaking journey.
Fitness training can be divided into cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility routines. It is important for people looking to take on this epic journey to have strong endurance, as kayaking a route of this length requires consistent paddling for extended periods of time.
Strong cardiovascular fitness is also necessary. Kayaking is an aerobic activity and requires paddlers to remain active for long periods of time. Paddlers who are not able to get into good shape before the expedition will struggle along the way.
Lastly, muscular strength plays an important role in kayaking the Mississippi. Paddlers will be able to paddle with greater efficiency and faster speeds if they are in peak condition musculature-wise. This, in turn, can help ensure a successful and enjoyable journey.
Kayaking Safety On The Mississippi River
When kayaking the Mississippi, safety should be the number one priority. First and foremost, paddlers should always wear a life jacket. Due to the current and potential obstructions in the river, a life jacket should be worn at all times to ensure the safety of the paddler.
Similarly, it is important to be aware of the risks of hypothermia, especially in colder climates such as the Upper and Midwestern stretches of the Mississippi. Paddlers should be mindful of the weather and be sure to wear the appropriate clothing and gear.
The environment of the river can also contain hazardous materials like dangerous wildlife, strong currents and fast water, and other potential boating hazards. As such, paddlers must familiarize themselves with the conditions of the waters, including the tide and currents, before embarking on their journey.
Finally, inexperienced paddlers should never go it alone. It is important to travel in groups and always have a partner or two with them. This will ensure that they are able to help one another out in the event of an emergency or accident.
Conclusion
Kayaking the entire Mississippi River is an incredible challenge that few people have achieved. It takes a great deal of planning and preparation, not to mention skill and determination. But, for those willing to put in the effort, being able to marvel at the US landscape from a kayak, encountering all that the river has to offer, is an incomparable experience.
