LOUISIANA

Location: Louisiana, located in the southeastern region of the United States, known for its distinctive culture, French influence, vibrant music scene and unique cuisine, was the next state on the route of the Sagitta expedition.

Duration in the State: From March 28th to April 1st, 2024.

Historical Background: Louisiana, famous for its French, Spanish and African heritage, was the site of early European exploration and settlement. It is home to New Orleans, a city known for jazz music, Mardi Gras celebrations and a rich cultural blend. The state’s history has been shaped by colonial powers and its role in the development of the Mississippi River.

Route Type: The journey through Louisiana was predominantly on asphalt roads, with a few stretches of gravel roads. The route also passed through areas with narrow roads and limited shoulder space.

Environment: The route passed through Louisiana’s diverse environments, including wetlands, bayous and swampy areas. The lush greenery and unique landscapes created a distinctive environment, especially with the presence of cypress trees and slow-moving waters.

Weather Conditions: The weather remained warm and humid, with occasional rain showers. Temperatures were often high, and humidity required constant attention to hydration.

Bike: Pepper 89 titanium gravel bike, model Kampot.

Main Cities Traversed: Covington was a key waypoint, offering a charming Southern vibe and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to Louisiana’s larger cities.

Notable Events: Crossing the mighty Mississippi River, a memorable and iconic moment of the journey.

Difficulties Encountered:

• Encounters with dogs along the route, which led to some tense moments.

• Anti-cyclist behavior from some motorists, with narrow roads and limited bike lanes making cycling more challenging.

• The terrain, while flat, presented its own challenges due to humidity and the occasional lack of proper infrastructure for cyclists.

Terrain: The route was mostly flat, making for relatively easy cycling but the challenging road conditions and occasional lack of space for cyclists made the journey more difficult.

Distance to the Next State: 482.25 km (approximately 300 miles) to the Texas border.