I had just published the last article and as usual, Barry wrote back that he'd enjoyed it. I wrote back that I wanted to expand my roamings to the north of Alexandria. He replied that he'd get a route together for me. Not to let an offer go cold, I told him that I was real, real enthusiastic about seeing it, hint! hint! Evidently Barry knew that I could become a nuisance, producing a route the same day. It was a big-un. Especially big if my entire ride from South Louisiana and back was factored in.
If I go up above Alexandria and do any meaningful riding, 400++ miles will have been ridden. I've been averging my miles per hour on these trips, that is, factoring picture taking time, eating time, pit stops, and lost and exploring time. The average for this one was about 34 miles per hour.
This is the second "Ride by Berry" offered up and I examined this one carefully tracing each link on my map program and darn if the roads he mentioned did exist.<grin> I compared his route to the roads I had already ridden, lined them up with my preferred access route to this area (not through Alexandria) and came up with "One you need to do". It ought to be on the state's tourist website it is so good. But, they're too busy hyping New Orleans and basically South Louisiana. That's why I'm headed to North La. (Louisiana speak for any place north of Alexandria). It needs a little hyping.
For my loyal following in my part of the state, I'll briefly tell you my route up there. So many of my articles have started this way, it is the way to go.
From the Lafayette area go to Arnaudville and then north on La.31. Before Leonville, go north on La.471 through Port Barre, then north on 103 at the Courtableu Bridge.
Soon you will meet La.359. This is one of the best sport touring roads in South Louisiana. Take it northeast to its intersection with La. 10. Take 10 east to Lebeau.
Continue on 10 to Palmetto. Shortly after leaving Palmeto turn onto
La.360 north to Bayou Current where you'll meet the Atchafalaya Levee Road, La.105, or as I call it, Easy Rider Rd. Continue north on 105 to La.1 at Simmesport, going east crossing the river. At the base of the bridge, turn north on La.418 until you meet La.15. Take it north and you will be in North Louisiana
as if transported in a time machine. Sure beats I-49, but it is not a night ride which is why I take the Interstate home. |
