The Mississippi River Trail (MRT) is the largest river trail in the United States. Spanning more than 2,000 miles through 10 states, it connects people to the nation’s most iconic and diverse landscapes and waterways. Its length, varied terrain, and diverse landscapes make the MRT one of the most beloved and visited trails in the US.
The MRT begins in its namesake Mississippi River, which serves as the upper bound for the trail. It then traverses the river’s banks, winding its way through ten states before finally ending in Louisiana. Along the way, it passes through areas like the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, the Bonneville Lock and Dam, and the Lower Mississippi River Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
The MRT’s 2,000-mile stretch covers a wide range of terrains, including wetlands, field and forests, rivers, and agricultural areas. Hikers and bicyclists will find plenty of well-marked path along the trail, making it accessible to all outdoor enthusiasts regardless of their experience or skill level. Additionally, camping is available along many parts of the trail, allowing visitors to extend their stay and really savor the journey.
Rest Stops and Bridges
Numerous rest stops exist along the MRT, offering various amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and water fountains. Furthermore, the trail is dotted with 26 historic and iconic bridges linking riverside communities. The most awe-inspiring of these is St. Louis’ McKinley Bridge, which spans the Mississippi River and serves as the longest Auto and Pedestrian Trail Bridge in the US.
Safety Considerations
As with any outdoor exercise, it is important to exercise caution and good judgement when attempting the MRT. Weather conditions can pose unexpected challenges, making it especially important for bikers and hikers to properly plan for and prepare for all potential obstacles before departing. Additionally, wildlife can present a certain danger; however, it is important to realize that it is usually more scared of us than we are of it. This can make a huge difference in how one experiences the MRT, making it all the more rewarding.
Best Time to Travel
One of the most beautiful aspects of the MRT is its ability to provide a drastically different experience from season to season. Winter can bring snow-covered landscapes and flat light frosting the night skies, while the summer months bring blooms of wildflowers and afternoons of sunlight. Regardless of when one travels, the spectacular vastness of the river and landscapes that make up the MRT will not fail to amaze even the most experienced outdoor enthusiast.
Economic Benefits
In addition to providing outdoor recreation, the MRT has immense economic benefits and has become an economic driver for many of the communities along the five rivers that it winds through. It has become a major tourist and recreational draw, generating millions of dollars in sales taxes and other revenue for the states and cities that it touches. In some cases, it has even stimulated real estate investments and helped in conservation efforts.
Impact of Covid-19
Naturally, the Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on the Mississippi River Trail, but despite this it is still an incredible travel destination that can provide belated vacationers the pure relaxation and recreation that the trail has become known for. While some rest stops and bridges may be closed to mitigate community spread, the majority of MRT is still open and ready to welcome travelers. Additionally, many locals are joining the trail as a way to get out of the house and appreciate nature.
Environmental Impact
The health of the Mississippi River Trail is largely reflective of the health of the Mississippi River, with the trail being situated right along the banks. It is essential that the communities and visitors of the MRT take necessary measures to ensure its sustainability. In addition to fighting the litter that accumulates, those frequenting the MRT should bring reusable water bottles, properly dispose of their waste, and respect the wildlife.
Educational Opportunities
While the Mississippi River Trail is enjoyable for adventurers of all ages, it also has incredible educational opportunities for those willing to look a little closer. The many informative signs and historic monuments that line the trail provide visitors with greater insight into the area’s culture, ecology, and engineering feats. It is a great opportunity for families to learn about the area’s history and natural landscape.
Accessibility
One of the main objectives of the Mississippi River Trail is to bring accessible, affordable trails and recreational opportunities for all. The trail’s paved and unpaved pathways offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity to explore the area’s rich natural resources without the limitation of certain terrain. This makes it a great resource for those seeking a safe, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the outdoors.
Relationship with Local Communities
The Mississippi River Trail is more than a scenic pathway- it has become a way of life for many of the local communities located along the route. It is a great platform to showcase the many cultures, personalities, and traditions that bring each stop of the journey to life. The MRT is something that has unified the region and helped establish a unique identity for the area.
