The Mississippi River has captivated numerous adventurers, writers, and even famous personalities throughout the years. Its 3,770-kilometer length has been the source of many journeys, with walkers and hikers often attempting to mimic famous explorers like Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. In modern times, it is possible to walk the entirety of the Mississippi River, though it does involve a remarkable journey that takes care, cunning and determination—but can you walk the Mississippi River successfully?
If you’re brave enough to attempt the Mississippi River walk, then the first issue you may have to deal with is time. It’s a long journey, and the entire length of the river taking in its entire course will take you weeks, if not months to complete. An average person’s pace is approximately three miles an hour and this will vary depending on geography, but with the Mississippi having a total of 3,770 kilometers, it is an incredibly long, and difficult journey. Moreover, you will have to factor in the time you will need to spend in each state or county you pass through, as navigating and travelling through each can be a lengthy process.
Philip Martinez, physical therapist, and intrepid traveler, who has hiked the route, commented that “you must be prepared for lots of walking, often for many days without break. It is easy to become overrun and exhausted if you don’t pace yourself. I regularly took multiple breaks a day, for at least 30 minutes, to review maps, drink water, and pick berries. Rest is needed as much as the walking. Time is a major factor, and you will need to divide your journey into manageable stages.”
Additionally, depending on the route of your journey and the season, you need to research rest stops and places to sleep. While walking the Mississippi is an incredible opportunity, it can also present difficulties when it comes to accommodation. This is something you must prepare for to avoid getting caught short. Further, you will need to bring enough food to see you through your journey, or you may find it hard to get supplies after a few days. It is wise to bring a tent and camping gear, and to make sure you have a means of boiling water or filtering it—drinking water from the Mississippi is not advised.
The weather is another important aspect of the journey. Summer will certainly be hotter and more challenging, with humidity to contend with, while winter can bring with it below zero temperatures, snow and ice. Philip adds, “you must watch the weather and be aware of temperatures to make sure you don’t get too cold or too hot. I suggest light layers, appropriate for the season, and to cover key areas such as the head and limbs.”
Finally, the geography of the river and its tributaries largely determine the kind of route you take. Flowing through 10 states and two provinces, the Mississippi is deeply embedded in American heartland. You need to properly research the areas of your journey, so you can understand it better and make the best of your river walk. There are stunningly beautiful landscapes to take in along the Mississippi, many of which your can take advantage of to get rest, fill up on supplies and appreciate the natural wonders that have impressed many over the centuries. With the right resources and determination, it can be an epic journey—one not to be missed.
Route Selection
The Mississippi River has presented numerous wanderers with the challenge of completing their journey successfully. As such, one of the most important elements of a successful walk the length of the Mississippi is to choose the right route. Not only is route selection beneficial for finding the path of least resistance, but also for taking in more of the scenery that is available along the river. While one might baulk at the prospect of having to conduct painstaking research on the best route to go, it is by far the most effective way to ensure that the duration of the journey is kept to a minimum.
In recent times, expert guides have been on hand to help individuals and groups discern the most desirable route. Louis Sykes, a renowned guide and outdoorsman, says of route selection: ‘I have the experience and the knowledge to be able to offer the most comprehensive advice on route selection for those wanting to walk the length of the Mississippi. Not only does it help to save time and energy, but it helps with sightseeing and optimum views of the incredible scenery on offer.’
In regards to navigation, Sykes further states that the ‘right route can be the difference between taking a few weeks or a few months. Current mapping and tracking technologies have enabled even the least experienced of walkers to find the best routes by avoiding treacherous terrain and hard to find trails, beyond the sight of the main Mississippi.’
In addition to Sykes’ advice, it is important to note that some parts of the Mississippi are considered privately owned, and as such are not available for swimming. It is thus advisable not to swim in many parts, as this could ultimately lead to serious legal and hospitalisation issues, as well as potential damage to local flora and fauna. By researching the most viable and feasible route prior to setting off on the journey, one can be enlightened and prepared for the challenges and restrictions of local roads and terrain.
Safety Considerations
Safety is always paramount when it comes to traversing the mighty Mississippi River. For the inexperienced, the river and its overall length poses an even more significant risk, what with the rivers’s famed currents and tributaries. Andrew Beck, safety overseer for the Upper Mississippi River said that due to the river’s intimidating size and flow, ‘safety must always be a priority. It cannot be taken lightly. For those set on making the most of their walk of the Mississippi, safety considerations must be made as soon as the journey begins.’
The Upper Mississippi River alone carries with it a significant risk of unruly currents and tides that can affect those traversing the River. Beck holds the view that depending on the season and period in which one is travelling, ‘it’s advised that those on the river keep an eye on the river’s state, as well as the relevant weather patterns and temperature outlooks.’ Whether one is travelling alongside the main Mississippi River or its many tributaries, use of safety equipment is strongly advised, such as life vests and diving masks.
Of course, the Mississippi River also carries an element of risk from the kind of wildlife that are living in and around the River. According to Beck, ‘bears on the river banks can prove to be a problem, as can boars and other forms of untamed wildlife within the forests near the River. Proper protection from such creatures is important, especially for those not familiar with the depths of the Mississippi, and what kind of dangers might lurk along the riverbanks.’
Other considerations of safety also relate to the nature of the terrain, namely that of the slip danger. Here, walkers must take care on wet and slippery terrains, such as types of shale and rock that are very difficult to traverse, especially when combined with the fast moving currents of the Mississippi.
What to Bring
For those set on the undertaking of the grand adventure of walking the Mississippi River, there are several pieces of items that should be brought in order to have an enjoyable and safe journey.
In terms of equipment, individuals should forgo bringing heavy supplies and instead focus on items such as a pocket knife, bike pump, rain-proof coat, sleeping bag, tent, cooking supplies and multi-vitamins. Also, possess basic first aid supplies such as cotton, thread and medicine.
Additionally, having a portable phone and access to a voice-calling service is essential in case of emergencies. Also, a satellite-enabled GPS device is usually necessary, as is an inert topographical map of the area of the walk.
In terms of provisions, it is important to simply bring enough food and drinks, both large and filling, while also ensuring they are lightweight. Carrying water on the journey is also a must, though some of the places on the river may have safeest sources of water available.
For good luck and company, many would be advised to consider bringing a reliable pair of walking shoes, a teddy bear, a good book, and a cup of their favourite beverage.
Fitness Considerations
Whilst the idea of walking the length of the Mississippi can sound extremely attractive, one of the major considerations to make before taking on such a challenge is the person’s fitness level.
With the journey to traverse the entire Mississippi River taking anywhere between a few weeks to a couple of months, it is essential that a walker/hiker is prepared and in shape to take on such a gruelling task. Although the walk is something that must be done in stages, even a couple hours a day can be quite arduous if one is not familiar with long distance running and physical stamina tests.
Nicholas Lastovic, a renowned physical trainer and world-record holder of the longest recorded walk in history (78 miles in 39 hours), offered his advise on the matter. ‘To conquer an extensive journey such as walking the length of the Mississippi River, much preparation and training come into play. Long-distance walking and running, general warm-ups, stairs and hill hikes, weights, engine catalysts and tracking with a heart monitor should all be done in advance in order to properly prepare the muscles, joints and bodily structure as a whole.’
Although it is not essential to be in peak physical condition before undertaking a Mississippi River Walk, it is tempting to urge those taking the challenge to, at the very least, do a few months’ worth of training and exercise in advance. In this way, the likelihood of one completing the journey with minimal problems and difficulties are greatly increased.
When taking on the journey of walking the entirety of the Mississippi River, navigation is an undertaking that one must not ignore. With the Mississippi’s record length of 3,770 kilometers, navigation can prove to be an arduous and exhausting task, even with the right knowledge and training.
The key to successful navigation is the implementation of resources, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) and trackers. While the GPS is generally used to name the locations and approximate areas of features such as cities, towns and landmarks, trackers are used to provide more accurate figures and pinpoint locations on a particular map.
In addition to equipment, having a good knowledge of the local areas and environments can be extremely helpful. This means taking the time to study maps, tracking data and speaking to local guides and experts. It also means familiarising oneself with the points in the area, such as signs, buoys, markers and other navigational tools. With all this information, a walker will be able to effectively plan their journey, anticipate potential problems and determine exit points, should the need arise.
Finally, should one find themselves in the need for assistance, turning to the help of experts is necessary. A number of experts and guides are available for hire who are able to provide more in-depth information regarding the Mississippi’s environmental features and features, as well as provide the necessary equipment required for a successful navigation experience.
