The Mississippi River begins at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota, flowing over 2,300 miles to the Gulf of Mexico.

The Mississippi River, one of the longest rivers in North America, originates at Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota. This small, serene lake is considered the official source of the river, marking the starting point for the river's 2,300-mile journey southward across the United States. From its humble beginnings, the Mississippi gathers water from numerous tributaries, creating a vast river system that impacts 31 U.S. states and two Canadian provinces. The river flows through major cities like St. Louis, Memphis, and New Orleans, ultimately emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. This iconic river plays a crucial role in U.S. ecology, culture, and economy.