Hickman, Ky.–The Dorena-Hickman Ferry is closed due to rising floodwaters covering the Kentucky Landing. The ferry halted service at the end of the normal service schedule today.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry normally has to close when the gauge at Cairo exceeds 44 ft., putting floodwaters above where the ferry can operate. The river was at 44.87 at 5 p.m., with a forecast to go to 46 ft by Sunday morning, then stay there for about five days before falling slowly.
Based on the river forecast, Captain Jeremy Newsom anticipates the ferry will be closed until about June 4th or 5th. The closure could be longer if there is substantial rainfall upstream going into next week.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry will attempt to provide timely notice when service is able to resume.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry connects KY 1354 at Hickman, Kentucky, with Missouri Route A and Route 77 near Dorena, Missouri.
In addition to providing a critical transportation link between Kentucky and Missouri for daily commuters and farmers, the ferry serves as a tourist attraction for the region and provides a convenient route between Southeast Missouri and the popular fishing and recreation areas around nearby Reelfoot Lake in Northwest Tennessee.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry Operates from the Hickman Landing with regular river crossings during daylight hours. Round trip 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.
Motorists can also check on the ferry’s operating status by calling (731) 693-0210 or at https://www.facebook.com/