September 11, 2014 - JOLIET...FINALLY!

This has been the least appealing of our entire journey, thus far. We had anticipated being able leave the Lockport area in early afternoon but as it turned out, we were not able to go into the lock until 3:35 p.m.  It seemed like we were in limbo all day, waiting to hear the word that repair on the lock was complete and then when we finally got into the lock it seemed like it took a very long time to get back on the river.  By the time we left Lockport, we were an entourage of about 6 Loopers.  We are now all tied up to the wall in Joliet, where they offer free tie-up space and free electricity.  We are across from Harrah's casino but it appears we're all just happy to hunker down in our boats.  The temperature has been very chilly today...no higher than 58...and we have enjoyed being able to navigate from the inside where it's warm and cozy.

Our tie-up spot outside Lockport Locks...not beautiful, but convenient and free!

In the Lockport Lock waiting to be lowered into the river

Tugboat that accompanied us in the lock

This lock is the deepest we will encounter in the Illinois waterway...drop of 39 feet

Fellow loopers behind us in the lock

Most disgusting...trash that has accumulated behind the lock gate

Our resting spot for the evening

Fellow loopers who had the same idea

One of the many barges/tows to pass by us tonight...bridge open and Harrah's Casino in the distance