Mudding Down The Mississippi

By Heather Raulerson Freelance Travel Writer

Have you ever imagined being Huckleberry Finn paddling the Mississippi River as a kid? Or how about pretending to be Lewis and Clark starting on an adventure under the St. Louis Gateway Arch? I remember having these dreams as a child, and with an adventurous spirit, it was no surprise that I paddled on the Mississippi River many years later.

Embarking on a paddle down the Mississippi River in St. Louis is a thrilling adventure, not for the faint of heart. The river’s fast-moving, muddy waters and the sight of commercial barges gliding under the iconic Eads bridge create an adrenaline rush like no other. But fear not, for with the expert guidance of the world-class adventure company Big Muddy Adventures, this heart-pounding experience is within your reach. Discover one of the most unique ways to view the Gateway Arch.

The morning of our scheduled micro-paddle, we showed up at the Gateway Arch’s base along the Mississippi’s banks past the St. Louis Riverboats. The weather was disappointing; with misty rain coming down, we weren’t sure if we would proceed. With their impeccable safety record, it was deemed uncomfortable (we would get wet) but perfectly safe to go on our paddling adventure. After watching the canoe being put into the water and brought to the banks, we stepped into the canoe.

Bundled up in rain gear, we paddled upstream towards Eads bridge. Paddling was tremendously harder than I thought it would be. I thought that being fit would make paddling a piece of cake. Boy, was I wrong! Moving the paddle in sync with nine other people takes considerable energy. We often laughed as we tried to match our stroke with the person sitting before us and accidentally tapped paddles with the person behind us.

As our canoe gracefully glided under the Eads bridge, a sense of awe washed over me. To see this national landmark from such a unique perspective was truly a moment of reflection. The Eads Bridge, celebrating its 150th anniversary as the world’s first steel-truss bridge this year, is a testament to human ingenuity, engineering, and perseverance. It reminded me of the Brooklyn Bridge as we passed its massive pillars.

Our plan was to reach the third bridge, but our group only managed to paddle under two bridges and the power plant before we had to turn back. As we approached the power plant, a passing barge caused us to bounce a little. Then, Matt, one of our guides, shouted, “Paddle faster! We’re not moving!” I was under the impression that we were already paddling at our maximum, but when I looked around, it seemed like we were standing still, with the water rushing beneath us. It was a surreal and thrilling moment.

We turned around after paddling like our lives depended on it. The return trip was more relaxing. We could take the oars out of the water and let the current take us back to the arch. What a sight to approach the magnificent Arch by water. It gave me goosebumps that I was rowing on a path that explorers took hundreds of years ago.

It is quite the experience to paddle on the mighty Mississippi River. If you feel unsure and aren’t ready to tackle this one-of-a-kind adventure, Big Muddy Adventures offers beginners a chance to paddle on calmer lakes and even rent boats in Forest Park. Whichever adventure you choose, Big Muddy Adventures will make sure you have a fun and safe paddle.

When you visit St. Louis, Union Station is a lovely hotel within walking distance of all downtown attractions. This National Historic Landmark was the largest railroad station in the world when it opened in 1894. In its heyday, it had 42 tracks running by 12 railroad companies; when renovated into a hotel, it kept its railroad history intact. Railroad company doors lead you into luxurious suites, and the massive lobby has a fantastic light show in the evenings on the hour showing Union Station’s history. Stay longer and have delicious snacks while watching 18 varieties of light shows on the ceiling.

Throughout the Union Station complex, there are more adventures. A Fire and Light Show in the lake features a 100-foot-long waterfall, and dancing lights happen in the evening. The St. Louis Aquarium is a family interactive fish extravaganza with spitting water fish, talking otters, and sharks swimming overhead. An obstacle ropes course, mini golf, a carousel, and a giant Ferris wheel let you see downtown St. Louis from high above. All of this and more to downtown St. Louis makes Union Station an ideal location to stay.

St. Louis might not be your first thought when planning an adventurous vacation, but it should be. With the numerous water activities, natural parks, botanical gardens, and greenway trails offering miles of biking and hiking trails, you can find the perfect outdoor adventure in St. Louis. What are you waiting for?