Atchafalaya, Bayou Benoit Launch
The kayak paddle trail map above in the Atchafalaya area starts at the Bayou Benoit Landing just north of Lake Fausse Pointe State Park. It’s an easy spot to find, just over the levee. I had planned to launch here on an earlier trip here but at the ramp there was a guy got off his ATV, walking around with a handgun, drunk like anything, could barely speak. So this is a second try. The route has two parts, the section going north enters a scenic lake area with lots of stumpy cypress left from old logging operations. This area is a good recreational kayak route that is close to the state park, if the water is high enough there is a lot to explore. The second part of the route goes south just to reach a junction of bayous, then turns around and heads back. At the launch there is a sign saying there is a large and notable cypress tree somewhere, but didn’t see it.
30.10146,-91.62761
Launch Site Google Maps Link
Above: A creative Louisiana bayou living arrangement.
Above: Looks like inclined plane for loading boats, at one time.
Above: The Bayou Benoit launch site.
Above: Nice stand of cypress in the area to the north of the launch.
Above: At the south turnaround; two alligators in the water and a cow in the distance.
Above: Dusk or dawn at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park.