Hoppies on the Mighty Mississippi.

We entered the Mighty Mississippi River today.  It is about a 200 mile run from Grafton to the Ohio River.  We had to enter the Chain of Rocks Canal and Lock.  This sign makes sure you don't continue on the river as rapids are ahead.  

Locking through with fellow Loopers.  

Asian Carp are everywhere.  Click on the pic to enlarge and carp out!  

We went through St Louis, but like New Orleans, there are no recreational facilities on the river so we had to keep going.  

Due to the recent rain, the river was full of debris, and we had to keep a careful watch.  

The famous Hoppies, the only "marina" on this stretch of the river.  It is just a few barges tied to the bank in Kimmswick, MO, population 200.  It was packed with Loopers, and we had a great happy hour this evening on the dock.  Fern Hopkins, the proprietress, holds court every evening and dispenses local river knowledge. She has been doing this for many years!   

A local barbershop band  was having a concert next door, and the Loopers invaded.