After low water on the Mississippi River has hampered operation of the Dorena-Hickman Ferry, the ferry has resumed service this morning.
This morning the Cairo Gauge showed 20.9 ft. at 7 a.m., putting water levels well above the 14 ft. reading required for the ferry to operate. The river forecast indicates the ferry will be able to operate beyond January 25. However, high winds in the forecast this weekend could hamper ferry service.
Motorists may check on the ferry’s operational status by calling (731) 693-0210 or by going to https://www.facebook.com/
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry is open and running on the winter schedule. The last run from the Kentucky landing is at 4:15 p.m., CST, and the last run from the Missouri landing is at 4:30 p.m., CST.
To get traffic advisories and alerts about the ferry’s operating status via email go to https://public.govdelivery.
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. The toll for passenger vehicles is $20 with additional tolls for trucks, motor homes, and vehicles pulling trailers. There are discounts for vehicles making return crossings. A complete fare list is available via the ferry Facebook page listed above..
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.