If you have some kind of weird places-to-use-an-outhouse bucket list, I have great news for you.
This week, we're taking you southeast of East Prairie to ride the waves of the Mighty Mississippi.
Set your navigation app to the Dorena-Hickman Ferry, and float to Kentucky for $20 one way and $30 round trip.
When you arrive, you’re going to think you’re in the wrong place. There’s no building, no booth, nobody waving you in. Instead, there is a ramp, a gravel lot, a button, and a post with a faded sign in Sharpie that says: "Push button for the ferry. Cash only. Do not park on the ramp. Wait here."
Here's what to know before you go:
FIRST, and I cannot stress this enough, always check the ferry's Facebook page before you even think about putting pants on and leaving the house. Low water, fog, wind, and crummy weather close operations often. The Facebook page is updated every morning with closures.
Second, check your wallet for cash. Like I said, it's cash only.
Third, think patient thoughts, young grasshopper. There's no set schedule. The Dorena-Hickman Ferry runs on demand during daylight hours. If you don't see it, it's on the Kentucky side. Push the button and wait. It'll show.
Why ride, you ask? In my case, I'm a Mississippi River superfan. I love that you can get out of your car and walk around, with nothing between you and river but a railing. But maybe you wanna slap on a walrus mustache and pretend you're Mark Twain. Or maybe you just want to visit Kentucky.
It’s not a long trip, but it is a unique way to experience Old Man River: slow and steady.
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