The Mighty Mississippi
 

Is it possible to go by boat down the entire length of the Mississippi? I noticed a lot of dams in the Upper part of the river. I assume they don't have locks that allow boats to pass do they?<BR><BR>If this is possible, I'd be interested to hear perspectives on the trip, when is the best time, what are the boat type options, etc. Thanks.<BR>

You can lock thru all the damns on the Mississippi.The only problem is that the barges have priority and you can wait a long time for your turn. Many many boaters travel from the twin cities to St. Louis during the summer months. Some have million dollar houseboats;others have canoes.

It didn't sound attractive to me, but one of the folks I work with was considering a Mississippi trip on a barge which hauls RVs. Passengers stay in their RVs and the cruise company does the cooking.<BR><BR><BR><BR> Keith<BR>

Do a search, there are several cruise lines that have paddleboat cruises up and down the Mississippi, from 7 to 21 days. The Mississippi originates as a creek just west of Grand Rapids, Minnesota so you actually cannot travel the entire length on these cruises. However, you really get the essence of the 1890's west on these cruises. Try the Mississippi Queen or Delta Queen websites

Relatives did the R.V. on barge thing last year and realy loved it. Stops were made along the way so people could do some sight seeing but could not take RV off until final destination. Good luck.