Henry, IL – Kuchie’s on the Water, free dock
The trip is getting close to the end of our stretch on the Illinois River. With only 2 more locks left on this river we start to look at the next river, The Mississippi. The stretch to Kuchie’s Restaurant is a sunny and no wind day. That being said not a lot to see as you pass trees and bushes not past the summer green on the leaves. We do see a foursome of deer along the water’s edge and see more eagles soaring above. Lots of barge traffic as well. We also are just beginning to see some stilt houses. The rivers can get high here. Watch the movie “Mud” and you’ll see how crazy high these rivers can run and the current runs along with the height. The last time we were down these rivers in 2015 the record height was set for the Illinois River. The rivers were shut down to recreational and commerce. By August they were open again. The rivers were so high and running so fast back then compared to now 2021 where waters are low by at least 3 feet and the Illinois River is only running a couple knots. It’s okay as you go with the current most of the way to Mobile, AL.
Kuchie’s on the Water is closed. It’s Tuesday. It’s fine with us as we prepared for a dinner. If you want a good dock with good depth pop on up to the Kuchie’s dock, wait for the lock while having lunch, or stay the night and enjoy watching the tows and barges from their balcony.
