Chicot to Simmsport LA
49 miles 279 feet of climb
Chicot State Park was otherworldly with the swampy areas and the woods around the campsite. Even so, there were other campers nearby with kids that were shouting, making noise, and bouncing balls until I finally fell asleep. Harris said he woke up at 3:30 and the kids were still making noise. I hope we disturbed them when we had breakfast at 6:30am and broke camp. Snarky, I know.
We had an opportunity today. Several of us made the decision to take the van into Mamou and go to Fred’s Lounge which is only open from 8am to 2pm on Saturdays, which is really a live radio show broadcast from Fred's, featuring zydico music. Mamou is called “The Cajun music capital of the world.” Here are a few of the many signs at Fred's, along with a bit of "artwork" in the trough sink.
The other option was to leave immediately and hope to miss a severe thunderstorm predicted for the day. Five of us opted for Fred’s Lounge to ride out the storm and also listen to some great Cajun music for free. There’s no cover charge at Fred’s. The rest headed out on the road. Here's a video of the storm we were faced with.
Four of us plus Bennie, one of our leaders went to Fred's. I was disheartened that more of the group didn’t go, but people are on this trip for different reasons and not interested in a unique opportunity for some great live music. Especially if they then have to ride 50 miles and try to beat the rain. We stayed dry so it worked out well. They didn’t.
The place was alive and the music was so energetic it was hard not to get up and dance. An older lady asked me to dance and I did. We had a great time. Our group also got a shoutout from the radio announcer.
Here's a sample of some of the music. We had a great time!
The storm hit outside and there was torrential rain. We were dry and having fun. The others were not so lucky and had to find shelter in Bunke.
We drove back to the campground, collected our bikes and headed out about 11:00. The ride was fairly flat and not difficult. We thought we would also get wet, but we didn’t.
We stopped for a late lunch and pie in Bunke LA and then finished the ride by about 4pm, well before dinner time. Harris is placing his order in the picture below.
We are staying in a church tonight and didn’t have to worry about setting up our tents. I’ve done rain on this ride and probably will do it again before it’s over, but there is only one Fred’s Lounge and I am glad we took the risk and got to experience it. It’s definitely a national treasure. Bon temps!
How fun ,one day doesn't make a difference. Better to be safe