Mississippi River – A Storied History in Missouri
Missouri is one of the most beloved states in the United States and holds a historical role in the nation due to its location on the Mississippi River. With its widewaterways, lush forests, rolling hills, and its large cities and small towns, Missouri is a perfect example of the diverse geographical features that are characteristic of the midwest.
The Mississippi River is often referred to as “Old Man River” due to its winding course, powerful flow, and remarkable depth and width. The river has wound its way from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico, with Missouri on one of its major routes. Missouri has been greatly touched by the Mississippi River over the centuries, from providing transportation to providing sustenance and power for the people living along its banks.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful picnic spot along the river or an exciting excursion, there are plenty of possibilities for exploring the banks of the mighty Mississippi. Numerous activities can be enjoyed along the Mississippi River, including fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and of course, canoeing.
But what about the question of whether you can actually see the Mississippi River from Missouri? After all, it is impossible to miss it as you drive along the roads that line the banks. In a word, yes, you can see the Mississippi River from Missouri. Whether it’s driving along the highway or taking a riverboat ride, the Mississippi River is visible from almost any point in Missouri.
In order to get a better view of the river, travelers can take a trip to one of the many stretches of riverfront cities around the state, such as St. Louis, Jefferson City, Hannibal, or Cape Girardeau. These cities boast plenty of parks, trails, and boardwalks, which offer tourists plenty of opportunities to get close to the river and marvel in its beauty.
The Mississippi River has captivated people with its incomparable views and endless possibilities for fun. Its waters have provided sustenance, power, commerce, and leisure for generations of Americans. And, no matter where in Missouri you may be, you can catch a glimpse of the grand Mississippi River.
Recreational Activities on Mississippi River
One of the biggest draws of the Mississippi River is the abundance of recreational activities it offers. Paddlers, fishermen, boaters, and bird watchers alike can find something to explore and enjoy on the diverse waterway. For many, the only thing that stands between them and the endless fun and delight that awaits on the Mississippi is a boat and a little bit of time.
Fishing is one of the most popular activities, as the river is home to many species of fish, such as catfish, bass, crappie, and carp. Boaters will find plenty of places to anchor and explore, or take a leisurely cruise along the river. Swimmers can take a dip in the Mississippi, or take a break in the many small coves and inlets that line the banks. There are also miles of biking and hiking trails to explore in and around the river.
For a unique river experience, a guided tour or paddleboarding adventure is worth considering. Books and magazines can help you plan trip and activities in and around the Mississippi River; popular spots include Eagle Springs Fish and Wildlife Area, Dunn Ranch, and Hermann Park. There are also large-scale events and gatherings for those looking for a bigger crowd and more action.
Sights to See Along the River
The Mississippi River has a rich history and many of the attractions along its banks are historical sites, museums, and monuments. In St. Louis, visitors can experience icons like the Gateway Arch, the Old Courthouse, and historic sites like the Cahokia Mounds. The banks of the river in Hannibal boast the childhood home of Mark Twain, his beloved museum, and the monuments dedicated to his beloved characters, Tom and Becky.
In Cape Girardeau, tourists can pay homage to the area’s past, including the Old Notre Dame Church and the first college ever built west of the Mississippi River. Historic Jefferson City is home to the Missouri State Capitol and several sites commemorating the state’s rich antebellum past.
For a unique adventure, and a chance to explore the wildlife and plant life of the Mississippi floodplain and wetlands, visitors can book a “wildlife safari” in the Great River Area. The tour is an incredible opportunity to observe over 200 species of wildlife in the surrounding woodlands and wetlands, including deer, beavers, and eagles.
Missouri’s Role in the Protection of the River
Missouri is also devoted to the ongoing preservation and protection of the waters of the mighty Mississippi. The state has numerous regulations in place to ensure the river remains pristine for generations to come. From wastewater regulations to strict wildlife conservation laws, the state of Missouri does its part in the efforts to protect the environment.
The US Army Corps of Engineers, with support from the US Fish and Wildlife Services, has developed a complex system of dams, raceways, and locks to help manage the Mississippi River’s shifting water levels. The dams help to control flooding, while the locks allow boats to transit between pools on the river. These projects are also important to helping maintain the quality of the water in the river and its tributaries.
Residents of the state are also doing their part to keep the river clean. Many local organizations are devoted to the conservation of the river and its surrounding landscape, with the goal of keeping the Mississippi River safe for all who use it. The state of Missouri also recognizes the importance of preserving their precious resource and has numerous financial incentives in place to encourage sustainable river practices.
Overall Environmental Wellbeing
The protection of the Mississippi River and its tributaries is important not just to the state of Missouri, but also to the overall environmental wellbeing of the country. The Mississippi is an integral part of the national water infrastructure and its health is important to further conservation and environmental efforts in the region.
The river serves as a source of food, water, and energy for many states, and relies on the efforts of the citizens and legislators to help protect it from pollutants and overuse.
The health of the Mississippi River is essential to the wellbeing of the nation and of the state of Missouri. By creating laws to protect the river, fostering businesses and community efforts to maintain the sustainability of its resources, and inspiring individuals and families to get outside and explore its remarkable beauty, Missouri and the rest of the nation can take great steps in keeping the beloved Mississippi River alive and well.
Mississippi River Bridges of Missouri
For those driving along the banks of the Mississippi River, it’s impossible to miss the dramatic and beautiful bridges that cross its waters. Spanning the midway point of the river, these bridges provide connections between the two sides, allowing safe and easy carriage over the river’s depths.
Missouri is home to some of the most impressive bridges in the United States and each one comes with its own unique story. The Gateway Arch Bridge, located in St. Louis, was built in 1965 to connect downtown St. Louis with the newly erected Gateway Arch. The Eads Bridge, located in East St. Louis, was the first bridge constructed to span the Mississippi and is widely recognized for its pioneering engineering feats.
For travelers looking for something particularly historic, The Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge in Cape Girardeau is a great choice. The bridge is the state’s oldest and was built in 1940, providing a dramatic view of the town from above. The Chester Bridge in Randolph County is an excellent example of a contemporary steel truss bridge and is an iconic part of the region’s landscape.
Each bridge offers something unique to visitors and all of them provide stunning views of the ever-changing Mississippi River. Taking a drive along the banks of the mighty Mississippi and taking in each bridge is a memorable experience and one that anyone visiting Missouri should make sure to include in their trip.
Conclusion
Missouri is the pride of the midwest, thanks in large part to its proximity to the majestic Mississippi River. Visitors can see the river from most points across the state and can take advantage of a wide array of activities, sights, and attractions that make the area so special. From recreational opportunities to its impressive bridges and rich historical sites, there are plenty of ways to explore and appreciate the river in Missouri.
