07
Feb/2008

by bartallica2006

 I just got back to Lafayette, La. from an overnight trip to Monterey, La.
The weather was 55 degrees and full on sunshine when I left yesterday. I dressed accordingly of course. I hopped onto I-49 North through Opelousas, La. and took the Lebeau exit turning East. When you get to the town of Lebeau, you jump accross to the Palmetto Highway which I think is Highway 1. Well, you go through Palmetto(slowly) and turn left onto a triple digit road, and go over the tracks. From here on out, you should have gotten your tank full and food if you are hungry before now. Which I had taken care of, since this was not my first time through here. Well, this road is in fairly rough shape for a few miles, so take care. But once you get past the first 5 or 6 miles, it becomes fantastic. When you get to the Atchafalaya River levee, turn north onto a beautiful scenic highway that I feel few probably know exist. Perfect with very little traffic, and smooth twisties with cows and horses staring as you pass by.
 When you come to Simmsport, La. you are going to want to take a right turn, towards the river bridge(in sight from the light) and cross over the river making the first left turn available, keeping on the river road. Still heading north, again this river road thing is very nice. Lots of smooth roads with mild to moderate curves. Not much traffic again. When you come to the end of the line here, take a left and go towards the Old River Control Structures, which is a Corps of Engineers masterpiece marvel. Truly a credit to a branch of our government. On that last left turn, from there on out is nothing but Wildlife management Areas, farmlands, and hunting campgrounds. The road is ontop of the Mississippi River levee. Again, nice, smooth pavement with lots of sweeping turns. And great scenery. Truly good therapy for city dwelling souls.
 Travel on this road for approximately 25 miles, crossing 4 more lock and dams, and countless smooth turns, and you will come to a junction which states"Monterey Left, Vidalia, straight" I turned left, and went to Monterey and filled up my gas, and my belly. This was 112 miles from Lafayette. I ran into a girl I grew up with down south in the store. Small world huh? I ended up staying the night at my cousins house about ten miles from there. Out on another beautiful lake, built a fire, drank beer, and ate a delicious deer roast.
 Upon waking this morning, I walked outside and discovered that I was blessed with another, even better day. No wind, 60 degrees, bright full-on sunshine. I took the same way back home, but took it a little slower. Stopped at a couple of places on the levee where campgrounds were found on the riverside. Beautifully kept up, and clean. This trip is definately my new favorite ride. Hwy 15 along the Mississippi River is definately the best of all the roads I took on this trip. Hope you get the chance to enjoy it soon.

Tags: Ride Rides Country

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