The Great Mississippi River Adventure

Day 36

Stats

56.5 miles traveled in 10:34 hours

River mile start:839

River mile end:884

River mile today: 55

River mile total:1411

% complete: 61.1

Miles to go: 884+12=896

Average 5.3 mph (breaks, lunch)

Burned 2409 calories

Kayak: Y&H Quest 

Temp at launch 74 degree, at pull out 96

This morning started like many mornings of late. Racing to get loaded and launched before the next barge passes by. I'm proud to say the first barge took over 2 hours to o er take me and dissappear around a far off bend in the river. Speaking of barges, I took what I thought was a shortcut that avoided barges. To my surprise, a 49 barge behemoth came around the last turn. I  got quick pic before I had to start paddling hard. Oh and surprise! There was another barge behind him. They churned up the water so bad I felt the effects all the way to the main channels opposite bank. That's a lot further than one might think.

My buddies the eagles came out and flew in front of me a few times. I wonder if they think of .e as good luck for them.

Today was hot! In the 90s all day. But you couldn't tell because of the freaking wind! The river current varies depending on the width of the river. Narrow equals fast, wide equals slow. I  started at 6.6 mph, then the wind picked up. I Averaged 5.2 on the day. Every mile was earned.

I found a small island to camp on. I hung up my hammock and am typing my blog from the cool safety of a bugless environment. 

Good night all!