If you think you’ve seen everything there is to see in the Hawkeye State, think again! Most Iowans haven’t heard of the historic Cassville Car Ferry, which travels between the Great River Road and the Iowa Great River Road in Northeastern Iowa.
Enjoy a relaxing float across the Mississippi River from Cassville, Wisconsin to rural Clayton County on the Cassville Ferry.
Google Maps
The Pride of Cassville is a small ferry that connects the Great River Road and the Iowa Great River Road. It was been operating since 1833!
Flickr / Adam Moss
You can bike on, drive on, or walk on for your scenic cruise. If you choose to walk on, your ticket costs just $4 round trip! On the other side, you’ll find a quaint river town to explore.
Facebook / Cassville Car Ferry
Many people take the ferry as part of the Great River Road journey. To drive on a car, truck or SUV, you’ll pay $15 one way.
Facebook / Cassville Car Ferry
The trip across the river takes about 20 minutes, depending on the river conditions. The Ferry runs on demand, so press the “call” button when you park to summon the ship.
Facebook / Cassville Car Ferry
During some nights, the Ferry runs a sunset cruise for walk-on travelers. Keep an eye on their website (link provided below) to see when the next event is.
Facebook / Cassville Car Ferry
While you cross the river, you’ll spot barges, ships, cruises, and more. The mighty Mississippi is an incredibly active waterway!
Facebook / Cassville Car Ferry
Make plans to travel out to the historic Cassville Ferry and you’ll wonder why you hadn’t taken this trip sooner. A ferry ride should be on every Iowan’s bucket list.
Flickr / Al
Find directions to the historic Cassville Car Ferry on the Iowa or Wisconsin side by clicking here. The Iowa side is located at the end of a 1.5 mile dirt road, so be prepared for a bit of a primitive, bumpy ride.
Google Maps
Flickr / Adam Moss
Facebook / Cassville Car Ferry
Flickr / Al
Ferry Hours (river conditions permitting) are as follows:
May: Friday-Sunday: 10am-8pm Memorial Day-Labor Day: Daily: 10am-8pm, After Labor Day: Friday-Sunday: 10am-8pm. Last trip from Cassville: 7:20pm, Last trip from Iowa: 7:40pm.
Visit the Ferry Website for events, schedules, and updates.
For more fun Iowa history, read 10 Photos From Iowa’s History That Are A Fascinating Window Into The Past.
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