Monday 10 October 2011

End of the river - Its all over!

After 65 days and over 3000 kms of paddling I have finally reached the end of my journey. While at times it has been tough and challenging it has been a great way to see the American Mid-West and to meet a lot of wonderful people in the process.
Now that the journey is done I guess its time to think of something else to amuse myself and no doubt it will involve travel. Enjoy

Tuesday 4 October 2011

Washington, Missouri - last days!

My time on the river is quickly drawing to an end as I expect to be in St Louis in the next two days. It will be weird not to spend my days paddling, swimming and camping by the river as the trains roar by at night. The last couple of days have been more social than what I have been use to. First I camped at Coopers Landing, a must stop spot for all river rats. Caught up with Jim a house boat owner out of Kansas City and Brendan, a fellow Aussie who was cycling across country. Even had time for my first shower in over two months - think I prefer the river wash.
A day down river I caught up Steve Schnarr and his fine crew doing volunteer work with Missouri River Relief. Over a few drinks and an excellent meal I got to meet some excellent folk and learn all about the great work they are doing to keep the river clean and encourage more river use.
Without a doubt the prettiest town on the river has been Herman, Missouri. Settled by Germans in the 1840s it has retained all of its charm and understandably lays claim to being the German capital of the USA.