memphis-to-helena

Mile 678.0 — Hardin Cut-Off

John Ruskey

26 Apr 2026

The main channel of the Mississippi explodes out of Walnut Bend and into a five mile southerly run through Hardin Cut-Off towards the mouth of the St. Francis. Here you will get your first views of Crowley’s Ridge, which meets the Mississippi at Helena. The faint line of trees in the far distance a little higher than the rest is the top of the ridge. It’s an impressive view with the river bouncing back and forth in between Shoo Fly Bar, Harbert Point and Stumpy Island. The St. Francis confluence is just below Stumpy Island.

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