6 Get to Know Louisiana Louisiana Get to Know Kisatchie Longleaf Vista Interpretive Trail Take a relaxing walk through meadows, high mesas and hardwood forests on this scenic walking trail. History & Culture While Louisiana became a U.S. state in 1812, its history has even deeper roots. Native Americans arrived around 4,000 years ago, creating fascinating earthworks that still stand today — most notably at Poverty Point World Heritage Site. Waves of European explorers began arriving in the 1500s, and the Spanish, French, African, Italian, French-Canadian (Acadian) and British influences survive through Louisiana’s rich food and culture. Without all of these connections, Louisiana wouldn’t be what it is today! Climate & Geography Louisiana’s temperate climate makes it an attractive year-round destination, with rarely freezing temps statewide and a warmer, tropical climate in the south. North and Central Louisiana are dominated by agricultural fields and rolling hills (highest elevation: Driskill Mountain, at 535 feet). South Louisiana is a land of waterways, most notably the Atchafalaya Basin — the nation’s largest river swamp — and the Mississippi River. Getting Here Louisiana is easily reached by Interstates 10, 12, 20, 49 and 55. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is the state’s main flight hub, with regional airports throughout the state. Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge LouisianaTravel.com
Louisiana Travel Guide Louisiana Sunshine Magazine 2021: Page 6
