Rivers are living things, and much like humans, each has its unique personality. We have traversed the Illinois, Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee rivers and experienced the splendor and trials of each.
The Illinois River was calm and majestic. It was a joy, from its beautiful forest-lined banks to unique bridges to the plethora of bald eagles. Going through America’s heartland, we passed farms, barges, small towns, and untamed wilderness. The water was calm and reflective.
Next was the mighty Mississippi River, adventurous and naughty. This one kept us on our toes and at full alert. Going with the current, we felt like we were a far faster boat, and the miles were fast in coming. From the eddies that altered our course, to the copious barges, to dangers just below the surface, to the sharp corners and curves, it was both exciting and terrifying. She earns her reputation as the mighty Mississippi.
After the Mississippi, Ohio was a joyous experience. Ohio was sedate and slumbering, broad and lacking the mischievousness of the Mississippi. Although we were now going slower and against the current, it was a welcome relief and delight.
The Cumberland was small but mighty. Far narrower than the other rivers, yet the current was strong. It was a peaceful experience with minimal barge traffic and mostly untamed shores. This ended at the Barkley Lock, our last big lift up.
From there, it was the Tennessee River, quirky and exciting, alternating from lakes to a river and back again. Here the shores changed from forest and farmland to rocks carved by time. The current again slowed our progress yet gave us more time to admire the homes on stilts, rock formations, and wildlife along its shores. As its last hurrah, we passed through the gorgeous Pickwick Lake; here, the rivers widen, and you find hidden waterfalls, beautiful and plentiful anchorages, and even an island with goats.
We are blessed indeed.
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