Hickman, Ky.–The Dorena-Hickman Ferry has resumed service. The ferry had been closed since Saturday when floodwaters covered the Kentucky Landing. The ferry reopened on the regular summer schedule at 7 a.m. today (Thursday, May 7).
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry normally has to close when the gauge at Cairo exceeds 44 ft., putting floodwaters above where the ferry can operate. Based on the river forecast on Saturday, Captain Jeremy Newsom thought the ferry would be out of service until about May 9 or 10. However, during the overnight hours the Mississippi River dropped more than expected. The Cairo Gauge was at 43.73 at 6 a.m., allowing the ferry to reopen this morning.
Motorists can check on the ferry’s operating status by calling (731) 693-0210 or by going to https://www.facebook.com/
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.