Dorena-Hickman Ferry reopened July 10

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry has now re-opened on the regular summer schedule as of July 10.

Since mid-January, the ferry has only operated a few days due to extended flooding along the Mississippi River.

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry normally has to halt operation at around 44 ft. on the Cairo gauge when floodwaters cover the top of the Kentucky Landing at Hickman.

Based on river levels on July 9, Captain Jeremy Newsom said he was confident the ferry will be able to resume operation on Wednesday morning. He said the crew spent some of the down time working on maintenance items, and the extended flooding has knocked the ferry out of a substantial part of what is normally the busy season, as a bump in traffic usually occurs during spring fishing season when people flock to nearby Reelfoot Lake.

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry connects KY 1354 at Hickman, with Missouri Route A and Route 77 near Dorena, Mo.

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry Operates from the Hickman Landing with regular river crossings during daylight hours.

Passage for passenger vehicles is $14 with additional tolls for trucks, motor homes, and vehicles pulling trailers. There are discounts for vehicles making return crossings.

Missouri and Kentucky have the geographic distinction of being the only border states that are not directly connected by a road or bridge. The only direct route between the two states is the Dorena-Hickman Ferry.

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry operates at Mississippi River navigation mile point 922.0.

For more info on the Dorena-Hickman Ferry and a schedule of operating hours go to http://www.dorena-hickmanferryboat.com. Motorists can also check on the ferry’s operating status by calling (731) 693-0210 or at https://www.facebook.com/DorenaHickmanFerry/.