The Mississippi River is a remarkable natural feature that occupies a vast stretch of the United States and plays an important role in both the nation’s economy and history. Spanning over 2,320 miles, it is the second-longest river in the United States, following only the Missouri River. In terms of size, the river is immense: it covers over 40% of the entire continental United States and could easily fit entire countries like France, the United Kingdom, or Japan into it. It is also known as the ‘giver of life’ due to its importance in providing resources to its numerous inhabitants.
The river has always been a significant route of transportation. Dating back to the 1700s, the river was the primary mode of transportation for early settlers traversing the North American continent. It was also used heavily in the steamboat era, where ships using the river for transport experienced a new level of ease and efficiency in travelling. In modern times, the river is still used extensively for transport, with the majority of vessels taking to the river for freight shipping.
With its giant size, traversing the Mississippi can be a time consuming venture for those who plan to travel its entirety. Depending on the speed and route taken, travelling from one side of the river to the other can take anywhere from a few days to upwards of a few weeks. There are some differences to consider when determining how long it will take to cross the river, primarily the size of the vessel, the speed at which it is travelling, and the route taken.
Consider the following two scenarios: in the first, a small boat sets sail down the shortest route possible, travelling at a steady speed and without any stops for the duration of the trip. In this case, it might take the boat anywhere from four to five days to traverse the entire Mississippi. On the other hand, a large cargo ship in the same circumstances may take upwards of a few weeks. Cargo ships are typically slower and prone to take multiple stops during their journeys, thus making the entire process substantially longer.
A third scenario could involve crossing the river via air travel. For example, if you were to hop in an airplane and fly directly over the Mississippi, the flight would likely take no longer than an hour and a half. While this may be the quickest way of crossing the river, it is also the most expensive and not available in all cases. Nonetheless, the speed and convenience of flying can be attractive to those with both the money and necessity to take this route.
In addition to practical factors, changes in the environment can also contribute to the time it takes to cross the Mississippi. Water levels can affect a journey significantly, ranging from delayed transit times, to unexpected obstacles, to hazardous conditions. Unpredictable weather can also hamper progress and make a journey through the Mississippi considerably longer than anticipated.
Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long it will take to cross the Mississippi. It all depends on the size of the vessel, the mode of transportation, the environment, and the route taken. No matter the time, however, a journey across the Mississippi is always a memorable experience.
Crossing the River by Boat
For those travelling with smaller boats, crossing the Mississippi can be a great adventure and with the right plan it can be done in a reasonable amount of time. While the route itself should be carefully considered in order to avoid any possible obstacles, certain strategic steps can be taken to make the journey both safe and swift. Firstly, it is always important to check the weather conditions in the area before setting sail. This can be done by regularly monitoring forecasts or by consulting local weather stations. Once a route has been determined and the weather is deemed safe for travel, the boat should properly be stocked for the trip. This includes bringing on enough supplies for the duration of the journey, including food, water, and other sundries.
In addition to stocking well, the boat should be in tiptop shape before beginning the journey. This includes ensuring that all necessary safety equipment, such as life jackets and communication devices, is on board. In addition, its engines should be properly maintained and in good working order. Once prepared, the boat should leave early so that it can make the most of the daylight and reach its destination quickly. Travelling at night is significantly slower, and can also make the journey more dangerous.
Another factor to consider is the passage itself. Many stretches of the Mississippi can be daunting due to their size, as well as the large-scale shipping vessels that they contain. To stay safe while crossing, small boats should never try to exceed the speed of larger vessels, as their massive size makes them hard to avoid. If possible, it is best to remain close to the banks and out of the way of larger boats.
All in all, crossing the Mississippi by boat requires an extra level of care. With the right precautions and a bit of luck, however, a journey by boat should be able to traverse the river in five days or less.
Crossing the River by Air
In contrast to boat travel, crossing the Mississippi by plane is considerably quicker, although it does come with its own set of considerations. The plane should firstly be inspected for any material defects or mechanical problems. Once it has been deemed airworthy, a pilot should be sought. He or she should be experienced in flying over large bodies of water, as well as roads and highways, as the plane will likely be situated near both during its journey.
Additionally, the route should be carefully inspected and determined before the plane leaves the ground. A flight plan should be drawn up, which outlines the airport of departure, intended route, and destination. The plane should also be stocked with the necessary materials should something go wrong, such as additional fuel and life jackets. In terms of the flight itself, the plane should take off early in the morning when visibility is better.
When navigating over the Mississippi in an airplane, it is important to stay aware of other air traffic in the area, as well as any tall structures near the river. Planes should also remain at a higher altitude, as there are many power lines and other obstacles close to the surface. If possible, the plane should be flown alongside another aircraft for the duration of the trip, in order to have assistance in any potential emergency.
Ultimately, crossing the Mississippi in an airplane is , albeit expensive, the quickest method available. With proper planning and execution, a plane could arrive at its intended destination within an hour and a half.
Risks and Safety Protocols
Crucially, journeys across the Mississippi should always take safety protocols into account, no matter the method of transportation used. When travelling by boat, all necessary emergency tools such as flares, fire extinguishers, and communication devices should be frequently inspected. Lifeboats and lifesaving devices should also be tested for any malfunction and replaced when needed.
When travelling by plane, the pilot should have extensive knowledge of the area, as well as the ability to navigate difficult terrain. Lifejackets should be on board at all times, and depending on the route a floatation device or lifeboat may be needed.
Overall, safety should always be the top priority with both boat and plane travel and before starting a journey it is important that one inspect and double check all necessary materials and equipment.
Alternative Ways of Crossing the Mississippi
In addition to boating and air travel, there are other possible ways to cross the Mississippi River. If weather and water levels permit, kayaking or canoeing is a great way to enjoy the river and its surroundings. Travelling by foot is also an option, although it would take several weeks and could be dangerous.
Cross country skiing is a fun and unique way to traverse the river in winter months when conditions are colder. If done properly and with the right equipment, a ski trip can be a memorable and adventurous journey. Depending on the route and avaliable amenities, skiing across the Mississippi can take anywhere from a few days to upwards of a week.
Finally, for those wishing to traverse the river without getting wet, there are various bridges crossing the Mississippi that provide convenient and quick access from one side to the other. The longest bridge over the Mississippi, the I-35W Bridge, is located in Minnesota. The bridge covers 18.7 miles and gets commuters to their destination in a matter of minutes.
In conclusion, there are many varied routes and methods one can take while crossing the Mississippi River. Depending on the size of the vessel, the route taken, and the mode of transportation, the journey can take anywhere from a few hours to upwards of a few weeks. No matter the choice, however, all journeys should take the necessary safety guidelines into account.
