Atchafalaya, Sandy Cove (south) Launch A
This west side Atchafalaya kayak paddle trail map route was done because it was near Lake Fausse Pointe State Park and easy to get to before driving back to Dallas later in the day. The launch is the southern version of two google-labeled Sandy Cove launches along the gravel Levee Road south of the Park. The northern Sandy Cove launch, the one with the permit station, was filled with guys launching airbots, so the southern launch was used instead. Turns out to be a good swamp paddle. The route first tries a channel going north from the launch that looked like it would lead into the interior of the swamp. But it was clogged by lilies (water hyacinth) and was totally jammed. So, going south instead, was a shallow channel that was clear and led further into the swamp. There’s some trial and error with Atchafalaya launches, it’s never sure if channels will be clear or clogged.
29.96843,-91.5423
Launch Site Google Maps Link
Above: Out of the boat and into the mud. Water levels are low.
Above: The same Fausse Pointe State Park alligator as always. He has a couple smaller friends who he chases away when they come by.
Above: Adventitious willow roots maybe?
Above: Passed by an airboat. They are loud. But they can get through the water hyacinth where a kayak cannot.
Above: A good swamp paddle means mud.
