Potomac and Chesapeake to the Mississippi

[Michale Shuff]

Wife wants to retire to her childhood home, which takes us from boating the Potomac and Chesapeake, to the Mississippi in the vicinity of Burlington. Did some research and was wondering what I can really expect. Locks and dams sound interesting, but what is the commercial barge traffic like. I just can't see the social aspects that I am used to. Am I just being onery??

One Drink One Dance

 

[RubberFrog]

Re: Potomac and Chesapeake to the Mississippi

It's going to be tough to beat the potomac and the chesapeake!

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Potomac and Chesapeake to the Mississippi

[colour=blue]Expect carp!

 

[QC]

Re: Potomac and Chesapeake to the Mississippi

LOL @ Aldo

I boated a little on the MIssissippi when I was vey young. I have always wanted to do that again, and the barges and locks made for some of the fun. It sure seemed like there were nice Islands and coves and stuff to socialise in. Great marina's etc. That was near Washington, Iowa which is right there I think . . .

 

[Gabby]

Re: Potomac and Chesapeake to the Mississippi

Never been there but have been on the Potomac around Arlington / Alexandria and DC. Grew up on the Ohio and boat it regularly now. Not as nice as the Potomac and my memories of Solomons Island area, but plenty of marina's and other river faring folk. It isn't the Gobi if that is what you are wondering. Locking through the first time is fun, but after that, just a brown body of water. If it is anything like the Ohio near Louisville there is plenty to do and see, you just have to go find it.

Good luck.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Potomac and Chesapeake to the Mississippi

I boated the Hudson River when younger and like the Admiral said: Locks can be fun. They are not difficult or dangerous to small boats, however, you do need good fenders because the walls are rough. You raft up in them and they pass the whole group at one time (if there is a group ) Only drawback is that commercial traffic takes precedence. So: if a barge is there, you have to wait.