MRT Vision Statement

The Mississippi River Trail (MRT) is a world-class bicycling route that travels from the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca, Minnesota to the Delta at the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. It is a 3,000-mile system of bicycle-friendly roads and multi- use pathways. The MRT is a “string of pearls” that connects 10 states, the cities of Minneapolis, St. Louis, Memphis and New Orleans, and hundreds of smaller towns along the way. The MRT is a unique way to experience the Mississippi River’s natural wonders, transportation system, recreational facilities and cultural heritage. Elected officials, public agencies, businesses, philanthropic partners and the public and are united in their support for the MRT.

Because of the MRT, river towns have redeveloped their waterfronts with public spaces that residents and visitors from throughout the world can enjoy. Public trails designed for multi-use recreation and transportation tie these waterfront spaces together. The Mississippi River Trail forms the backbone of this network of communities. Through a system of connecting trails, the MRT is linked to other towns near the River and to the rest of the nation. The trail is connected to riverboats, railroads, airports and other transportation options.

Communities view the MRT as an essential part of their quality of life, identity and economic development. Community leaders understand that investments in trails increase property values and maintain their ability to attract and maintain quality employers and a dynamic workforce. Communities use the MRT to regularly celebrate their river heritage and educate residents and school children on the importance of the river ecosystem and its cultural heritage. They are aware of the need to be constantly working to enhance and protect the MRT as a legacy for future generations.

The Mississippi River Trail is viewed as critical to the tourism economy. In fact, it may be the most significant public investment made for tourism in some small towns. The MRT is the catalyst for the transformation of local economies and communities. Chambers of commerce, convention and visitors bureaus and individual businesses highlight the MRT in their promotional materials. MRT, Inc. continues to play the lead role in providing technical support, information, education, and other resources. Links are provided to local partners and an established network is available for coordinating promotional efforts along the entire trail.

Leaders in the public, private and non-profit sectors understand the contribution that trails and their related physical activity make to the health of local communities and the nation. The incidence of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other disease related to physical inactivity is reduced in communities that provide trails that are safe and convenient places to exercise. All along the river, families use the MRT for outings and vacations. Because of the Mississippi River Trail, bicycling and walking for transportation and recreation will be an integral part of their entire lives.

Like modern Huck Finns, children can grow up playing along the MRT - and dream of some day riding it from the Headwaters to the Gulf. Like jazz, the blues, and the great Mississippi River itself, the MRT is part of the heart and soul of America.