The Upper Mississippi River is typically considered to extend from the river's source to St. Louis.

The area between the city of St. Louis, Missouri, and the Upper Mississippi River's rivers at Lake Itasca in Minnesota is known as the Upper Mississippi River. There are many recreational options, beautiful scenery, and a variety of habitats along this portion of the river. It supports wildlife and offers key channels for the transportation of products, making it an important part of the region's ecosystem and economy. The cultural history of the settlements along the banks of the Upper Mississippi is likewise rich.