A Quick Stop at the Largest Swamp

Atchafalaya Heritage Area-Louisiana December 27, 2012

After visiting my parents in Houston, TX for Christmas, I stopped at the Atchafalaya Basin, or the Atchafalaya Swamp.  An American-Indian word, "Atchafalaya" (Think of a sneeze: uh-CHA-fuh-lie-uh) means long river. Established in 2006, the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area stretches across 14 parishes in south-central Louisiana. It is among the most culturally rich and ecologically varied regions in the United States, home to the widely recognized Cajun culture as well as a diverse population of European, African, Caribbean and Native-American descent.

Yes indeed!  It is the largest swamp in the US.  The basin is about 20 miles in width from east to west and 150 miles in length.  It comprises of wetlands and river delta where the Atchafalaya River and the Gulf of Mexico converge.   

So as I was driving along Intestate 10, there is 18 miles of the interstate on elevated pillars over the swamp.  Pretty amazing.  

Perfect day with a cup of sweet tea and the famous New Orleans Cafe Du Monde beignets.

Tiger hiding in the swamp! 

Tiger's Final Thought:

This National Heritage Area is full of life.  Not only there are so many scenic areas, it is the perfect concept where significant natural resources blended with their unique culture and identity.  Even though I can stay as a swamp tiger... just like the team we just beat in the Chick-fil-A bowl, my heart  BELONGS to Clemson. Oh wait! I AM THE CLEMSON TIGER!