Spanning over two states and numerous towns, cities, and counties, the mighty Mississippi River is one of the most iconic rivers in the world. As it passes through the bustling city of Memphis, Tennessee, the river ranges from a quiet and peaceful stream to a raging torrent, carrying with it a near-constant flow of history and culture.
The Mississippi River in Memphis is a whopping 10 miles wide at points, ranging from a few hundred yards at the shallowest areas to more than a mile across in boundless parts. This makes Memphis’s stretch of the great river one of the widest sections of the whole ebb and sway of the majestic waterway.
Both historically and in the present day, the Mississippi River has been the defining feature of Memphis, providing an essential outlet for shipping and commerce, as well as a place of recreation and rest. The river’s own presence has been celebrated in literature, film and song, as people from all over the world come to revel in the sights, sounds and sensations of a living, timeless river.
Despite its serene beauty and wide expanse, the Mississippi River in Memphis can still be a dangerous place. Flash floods and river swells can happen quickly, and while they are generally rare, they can be dangerous or even deadly if precautions are not taken. It is always wise to be aware of your location and any potential risks when partaking in recreational activities.
The Mississippi River has also been the source of much economic prosperity for the city of Memphis. The river has served as an important shipping lane for centuries, with locals finding employment in the many industries that depend on the transporting of goods to and from the city. Its presence has also played an essential role in tourism, as Memphis attracts many visitors from around the world each year.
The mighty Mississippi has enduringly offered the city of Memphis countless opportunities for generations. From its wide expanse to its affluent past, the river has defined the vibrancy and charm of the river city. This makes it a unique and perennial part of the Memphis landscape for locals and tourists alike.
#RiverCruises
You can experience the vastness of the Mississippi River in Memphis through river cruises. Companies such as The Great American Steamboat Company offer a variety of different lumbering tours, which allow individuals to see the city from a unique perspective. From the iconic Memphis Bluffs to the picturesque sunset, river cruises are a great way to get up close and personal with the Mississippi.
These journeys will also create a unique opportunity for individuals to bask in the history of the city and to gain further understanding of the symbiosis between the city and the river. With a knowledgeable tour guide and comfortable accommodations, river cruises offer a one-of-a-kind experience.
Many of the river trips are also built around special occasions, with private charters accommodating special events such as weddings, anniversary parties, and birthdays. You can also find companies offering beer tastings or BBQ tours, making the experience of cruising the widest stretch of the Mississippi as educational and amusing as you would like.
#Rafting
Rafting is another great way to experience the magnitude of the river, with people both young and old taking to its turbulent waters. Outfitters such as Wolf River Rafting offer guided trips through its various channels, navigating the perils of the river with experts from the area.
The experience of floating on a raft as you look out to the Memphis skyline will leave an unforgettable impression, as people can truly take in the sheer power of the Mississippi. Tours also provide the opportunity to get acquainted with the wildlife living around the area, from native fish to birds and other aquatic species.
Rafting trips start at a relatively low cost, with the boat rentals covering everything you need for a day, including paddles, life jackets, and a scenic tour of some of the best sites the city has to offer.
#Kayaking
Another popular way to explore the Mississippi in Memphis is to take to the waters in a kayak. Companies such as Big River Kayak Tours offer kayaking trips to different areas of the river, allowing individuals to get up close and personal with the natural environment around them.
Kayaking the Mississippi is a great way to become acquainted with the perils and the beauty of this natural wonder. Paddling through the obstacles of the river is an enlightening experience, as keen observers will be able to view the life and the energy of the city from up close. For the more adventurous, you can find extrovert trips to explore further landmasses and further paths of the ebb and flow of the great river.
The kayaking trips don’t just come with the allure of being close to nature but, with the activity itself yielding many health benefits. Taxing your body while paddling around the bends and swirls of the river will provide you with leisurely exercise and a day of strengthening the body’s resilience, in an enjoyable yet effective manner.
#Fishing
Fishing is another classic way to enjoy the Mississippi in Memphis. With many different types of fish inhabiting its waters, the river provides an abundance of opportunities for locals and tourists alike. Several companies offer guided trips through these prolific waters, featuring knowledgeable guides to help you catch a variety of species.
Aside from the promise of the perfect catch, fishing on the Mississippi River also provides individuals with an exquisite view of the city, giving people a better appreciation of this natural wonder. Fishing enthusiasts will vouch for the experience of waiting for the ideal bite, as you take in the sights and sounds of life along the river.
Whether you choose to join a guided trip or an independent expedition, the Mississippi River in Memphis provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a host of activities to try, you can always find ways to take in the serene wildlife and grandiose atmosphere of the mighty Mississippi.
#Camping
Camping along the wild Mississippi River is one of the best ways to get lost in the beauty and tranquillity of the outdoors. With numerous campsites dotted around its many different areas, you can come with your family and friends to spend a few days in the heart of nature.
Many of these sites come complete with swimming holes and fishing spots to cater to your every desire. You can also just sit back and relax with a chilled beverage and take in the majestic views surrounding you. Hiking trails are also available near many of the campgrounds, allowing you to explore large chunks of the area’s great nature.
The majority of the campsites come with necessary amenities such as restrooms, showers and picnic tables, making them perfect for an extended stay. Catering to both groups and individuals, Campsites along the river provide a great opportunity for anyone looking to explore the best of what the area has to offer.
#Swimming
Swimming in the Mississippi River in Memphis is a great way to become one with its wild nature. Despite its size and wide expanse, the water is generally safe for swimming in many areas of the city. It is also essential to be mindful of any currents or obstacles which may make some areas unsafe for a dip.
Cove Park and Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park are two of the most popular locations for individuals looking to have a swim in the river. Not only do they come with a vigilant lifeguard staff, but they also provide comfortable spaces for swimming with soft sandy banks for a successful wading experience.
For those looking to take a daring dip without the rush of currents, the month of November is the safest bet, with the river waters boasting a calmer flow.
#Boating
Boating is another great way to experience the Mississippi River in Memphis. With an abundance of marinas, the city is the perfect spot to embark on a journey down the river in a luxurious boat. Both during the day and at twilight, visitors can sail through the churning waters and view some of the city’s best attractions like Mud Island and the Pyramid.
For those looking for some serious nautical thrills there are also several options for jet skiing, as operators offer services throughout different regions of the river. Jet skiers can also observe the many buildings that line the bank and take in the unique topography that permeates this part of the great river.
Whether you are looking for solitude and serenity or adventure and thrills, the Mississippi River in Memphis has something for everyone. Its wide expanse and near-limitless possibilities have etched its name into the history books of the world, making this river a one-of-a-kind experience.
