Exploring the Westward Route from the Mississippi
The Mississippi river is a major geographical and infrastructural feature of the USA, and stretching 4410 miles, it is the second-longest river in the United States. The river has a rich and diverse history, serving as a vital trading route for millennia and playing a critical role in several major American events, including the civil rights Movement. It has been a point of reference in our collective knowledge and is, of course, ongoing proof of the natural wonder that our planet is home to.
Indeed, if you were to travel, away from the banks of the Mississippi, it would be possible to traverse east, towards the Atlantic Ocean, or west towards the Rocky Mountains. Given its length and breadth, this article’s primary concern is to explore the possibilities, challenges, and history of journeying westward from the Mississippi River, across of a broad swathe of the US landscape.
Travel Conditions Across Different States
Given the diversity of climates, cultures, and political regimes that exist within the United States, the conditions of travelling west from the Mississippi will vary by location. Some states may be truly wild, challenging, and rough for adventurers. Others, particularly bordering states may be more hospitable, with more developed infrastructure, more ‘civilized’ towns, and access to more modern amenities.
When exploring the westward route, travelers may encounter diversity in terms of temperature and weather. Expect everything from steamy tropics in Florida, to temperate climates in Virginia, to chilling snow in Michigan, and on further west, desert climates in Arizona. The terrain and even the vegetation will vary immensely depending on the location.
Resources Available
When travelling west from the Mississippi River, it’s important to consider the resources that are available in each state or region. The development of infrastructure plays an integral role in a traveler’s experience, as well as their ability to get to a destination.
The transportation networks will vary across regions, with some offering a variety of road, rail, air, and water transportation systems. One key landmark is the construction of the world-famous Interstate Highway System, which connects many of the major cities along the way, making an overland path a possibility. In addition, there may well be private transportation services, such as buses, boating and planes that are often used to provide alternative options. Often, these are the best options when looking for quick, safe, and convenient transportation.
Staying Connected
In Canada and Alaska, where much of the western United States can be found, mobile cell phone towers provide many of the most remote parts of the USA with cell phone coverage. This means that a traveler is able to connect to the internet and share their journey with friends and family on social media as they go. It also makes it easier to stay connected to services like accommodation booking applications or other travel-related apps.
When travelling through the states, it’s also possible to access Wi-Fi connection at airports, hotels, or cafes to get online and carry out activities such as researching attractions in the area or using apps to make bookings.
Health and Safety Measures
For the most adventurous travelers, it’s important to consider the health and safety measures available in each state. This may include having the right supplies, equipment, and knowledge to face unexpected events such as bad weather, road closures, and other emergencies.
Before embarking on a journey, it’s important to research the health and safety regulations and precautions that are required for each state or region. This may include researching the water, air, or soil quality in the area, or visiting a doctor to get the appropriate vaccinations or medicines for the particular area.
When travelling in remote areas, it’s important for travelers to have the right supplies such as food, water, medical supplies, and fire starters, which may be needed in case of an emergency. Furthermore, it’s important to have a map and GPS device handy, to ensure that a tourist can navigate their way back if they get lost.
Stops Along the Way
Depending on the route taken, there are multiple potential stops that a traveler can make along the way. These include cities and towns such as Chicago, St. Louis, Omaha, Denver, and Salt Lake City. Depending on the region, there are also numerous museums, galleries, and national parks that offer an enriching experience, including Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park.
Each of these locations offers something different, providing travelers with an opportunity to get to know each state on a deeper level. These stops can provide travelers with a welcome chance to experience the culture, food, and people of a particular location.
History of the Mississippi Exploration
Exploring the route from the Mississippi River to the West Coast of the US can provide travelers with a unique insight into the history and stories of those whose feet have tread this path before them. The Lewis and Clark expedition stands out as one of the most famous and defining explorations of the region. This was a mission to explore the largely uncharted lands of the Louisiana Purchase and stake the United States claim to the region.
The expedition set out from the headwaters of the Mississippi in May 1804 and after a long and arduous journey, they reached the Pacific Ocean in November 1805. This feat of endurance and bravery stands as a monument to the potential of exploration, and an example of the riches that can be earned by ‘seeing the West’.
Accessibility of Wildlife Areas
The landscape of the United States is vast and diverse, with both incredible possibilities and potential danger. Thus, travelling through many of its remote regions can be a challenging prospect. Ultimately, the land is home to many different species of flora and fauna, many of which can’t be found anywhere else.
Visiting the wilder parts of the United States can be an opportunity for the traveler to grow and explore. After all, these areas provide a unique opportunity to observe some truly remarkable creatures, like grizzly bears, wolves, migrating caribou, or bald eagles. These areas also come with warnings of danger, and it’s always a good idea to bring a knowledgeable guide on any wildlife exploration, or do some research in advance.
Camping and Hiking Opportunities
The western US is home to some of the most beautiful outdoor settings in the world and offers travelers incredible opportunities for camping and hiking. Times spent outdoors in the wilderness can help travelers deepen their connection to nature, experience incredible vistas, and simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The National Parks provide a safe and regulated environment, with well-maintained trails and camping spots, offering the opportunity for visitors to rest and relax in a truly beautiful setting. Alternatively, many of the remote areas of the west can be explored by way of thorough research and knowledge of the terrain, where adventure awaits around every corner.
Unique People and their Traditions
Travelling west also offers an opportunity to interact with a wide variety of different people and learn about their unique cultures, languages, and traditions. This could range from visiting indigenous communities to learning more about the culture of Mexican Americans, to listening to the stories of its farming communities.
When taking a journey to the west it’s important to be respectful of each state’s diversity, and the varied cultures that make it up. Being open to engaging with their people, customs, and stories can be a wonderful way to gain insights into the local way of life and the living history that each state can be home to.
Opportunities for CBD Tourism
The US legal landscape for cannabis is rapidly changing, with legalisation being passed in many states, including areas which stretch out from the banks of the Mississippi. As a result, there has been an surge of so-called ‘CBD tourism’, with tourists increasingly keen to relax, explore, and enjoy their travels in the US whilst still having access to their preferred substances.
In large cities, and in the areas around the Mississippi, tourists may find access to legal outlets or cafes which offer cannabis-infused products. Travellers may also take a trip to a therapeutic spa or massage treatment clinic to benefit from the medicinal benefits of CBD without worry of legal repercussions.
Challenges Faced by Tourists
When travelling west, tourists may come across certain language, cultural, or other barriers. These can range from the mild irritation of a decoded language to discriminatory attitudes and outright xenophobia. It’s important to be aware of these potential issues and take reasonable steps to respond, such as learning some of the native language, or carrying documentation that could help if stopped by law enforcement.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that whilst touring the western US, a tourist is likely to be in a minority in comparison to the local population. Therefore, it’s critical to keep an open mind and do your best to get to grips with the local language, as well as study the customs and traditions of the local community.
Conclusion of Travel Experiences
Venturing west from the banks of the Mississippi River can be a truly exhilarating experience for any traveller. From getting to explore some of the world’s most beautiful nature, to delving into the culture, language, and traditions of the west, the entire journey will be full of surprises and exciting discoveries.
By doing research and being prepared for the potential challenges of travelling west, adventurers can ensure they can get the most out of their trip and experience some of the best that the USA has to offer.
