[April 2016 Submission]          Leave No Trace

I have been visiting many state parks and wildlife areas in Louisiana, and occasionally I’ve profiled a few of the more attractive hiking and camping places in this journal.  Our state is fortunate to have these beautiful recreational sites for residents and out-of-state visitors.  Given state budgetary challenges for the future, we have to be concerned, though, about the maintenance or upkeep of these key resources.

Some state parks and recreational areas show a natural “wear and tear” of continuing public usage in little or more significant ways.  Other places stand out due to more recent construction or refurbishment.  For example, Palmetto Island State Park, about ten miles south of Abbeville, appears particularly well maintained and is a joy to visit.

      

The quality of our outdoor experiences in public parks and wildlife areas depends upon much more than the size of state funds dedicated to their maintenance or even the efficiency of their management.   All of us who visit and use these resources bear a stewardship responsibility. 

I can remember even as a boy the differences that I observed in the hunting, fishing, and other recreational practices of friends.  Some seemed appreciative and respectful of our forests, lakes, and wildlife areas, while others took much less care and even “trashed” sites in certain ways.  I believe, in general, and over decades, that people are becoming more respectful toward wildlife resources.  Still, there are increasing human demands on our national and state public lands, and some folks just don’t care that much or don’t know better.  Practices such as leaving food containers, picking certain wildflowers, or letting a dog run free in a sensitive wildlife habitat can have unforeseen and unintended consequences.  Education concerning the natural environment in our schools certainly helps, as well as peer pressure and reactions from those observing improper outdoor behavior. 

Fulfilling outdoor training and educational goals is the purpose of the Center for Outdoor Ethics and its “Leave No Trace” programs.  This national non-profit organization, started in the 1960s and based in Boulder, Colorado, sends teams to various locations as trainers and consultants.  On a first-ever “hot spot” trip for the organization to the state of Louisiana in November, Leave No Trace trainers, Katelyn  Stutterheim and Blake Jackson, spent a number of days meeting in the Lafayette area with students, the public, and wildlife professionals.   Bayou Teche and Bayou Vermilion resource development and preservation officials helped spark this “hot spot” visit.  It was the last hot spot of the year chosen by  Leave No Trace trainers to visit, with 16 different spots in the USA picked for its educational programs in 2106.

These LNT trainers always emphasize the organization’s seven principles of outdoor ethics.  The first is the importance of planning and preparation for outdoor and wildlife trips.  Mistakes, accidents, and littering often occur when humans are not prepared for the conditions that they actually encounter.  The second principle of Leave No Trace is to travel and camp on more durable surfaces where possible to reduce soil erosion and damage to sensitive areas.  The third principle is to dispose of waste in a proper manner.  If you pack stuff in, be sure to pack it out.  Better means to dispose of human excretory waste is a topic that some outdoor enthusiasts have not really considered.  A fourth principle is leaving what you find in parks and wildlife areas to allow others the beauty and discoveries that you experienced.

Smoky the Bear may have long trumpeted their fifth principle of minimizing campfire impacts, but more detailed examples, options, and precautions are part of what training experts can teach even experienced campers.   The sixth principle is as important as any.  Respecting wildlife means a knowledge and sensitivity of human impact, and minimizing these impacts when possible.  Consideration toward other visitors to parks and wildlife areas is a last principle, and this includes courteous sharing of trails and other resources, as well as limiting loud sounds or noises.  For example, on multi-use trails, both bikers and hikers should yield to horseback riders, while bikers should yield to hikers.

None of these seven principles might seem to go beyond what should pass as common sense, but actual practices in specific situations that more fully support these principles seem the real value of Leave No Trace training.  Previous focus by park and wildlife officials was usually on warning signs or slogans,  enforcement efforts, and penalties.  More recent priorities have been placed on explaining to the public the “whys” or reasoning associated with rules or regulations.  When the public understands better the potentially negative consequences and costs associated with infractions, their environmental IQ rises beyond just better rule acceptance. 

I have to admit that in several cases I had not really recognized possible consequences associated with certain of my own common outdoor practices.  Effective trainers can offer research studies and cases showing how certain habits can be less than beneficial, yet can be modified to reduce their potential adverse consequences.  These trainers also have skill in gaining the active involvement of training audiences, often children and adolescents, by asking them first to handle actual situations and make own choices. 

Much more information on wildlife ethics, conservation, and training opportunities can be found on the Center for Outdoor Ethics and Leave No Trace web site (www.LNT.org).  Membership in the organization and contributions for its educational mission are certainly welcomed.

[March 2016 submission]   Cycling Treasure in Lincoln Parish

There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There is an incredible variety of sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some that even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss. Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural love and affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among adult men and women. And I not referring to sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals. Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that the favorite adult outdoor activities were 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching. According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting was the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities. In terms of the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents. Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%). Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting are much less highly ranked relative to other outdoor activities than adults favored these.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities or cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been dominant pastimes, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media attention and commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a brief discussion of bicycling as one of the more popular outdoor activities.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner or hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location. I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a bit of fear of getting on public roads and encountering some auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road. That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails or paths. There the only concern is my hitting a unforeseen rock or root and a different sort of crash landing. Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations.

Many local parks and recreational areas in the state have paved or unpaved trails to challenge biking dedication and energy levels. Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails. It's even been promoted as one of the top mountain trail bicycling challenges in the country. The Lincoln Parish Park just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville is a beautiful place to visit for rest and relaxation, as well as go for a true bicycling adventure. I'm glad to be able to spend a day there recently. I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this and the over three-mile beginners trail there was a good challenge and workout for me. I really needed a mountain bike for some of the advanced trail. My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy for the larger roots and bumps at times.

Much of the credit for creating this biking and recreational treasure in our region goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park in the nineties. For those currently interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about various biking trails and events in the state. You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and beginners trails at the park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails. Several available YouTube videos of bike riders encountering parts of the advanced trail can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.


Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, along with a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing. Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees. Rag and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.
There are incredible sensory experiences and rewards from outdoor life, and some of these even very seasoned hunters and fishermen miss.  Although so many of us in the Deep South have a natural affinity for hunting and fishing, other outdoor activities rival these two now in popularity among men and women.  And I’m not including sports or games such as recreational football, baseball/softball, tennis, and golf which have millions of participants.

The Topline Report for 2015 of American Outdoor Recreation Participation is sponsored by the Outdoor Foundation and involves surveys of almost 11,000 individuals.  Based on its 2014 polling, the report indicates that America’s favorite adult outdoor activities are 1) running, jogging and trail running, 2) bicycling (road, mountain and BMX) and 3) bird watching.  According to this measure of the frequency of cited participation by surveyed adults, hunting is the fifth popular activity with many times fewer overall outings per year than the first-rated and second-rated activities.  As far as the percentage of all survey participants who claimed that they participated that year in outdoor activities, running, jogging and trail running scored highest with 15.8 percent of respondents.  Trailing this were fishing (15%), bicycling (12.8%), and hiking (12.4%).  Among non-adult survey participants, those under the age of 24 in this 2015 survey, fishing and hunting were much less highly ranked, relative to other outdoor activities, than adult respondents had ranked hunting and fishing.

These survey results likely don't reflect outdoor priorities and cultural traditions in the Deep South where hunting and fishing have long been so popular, but perhaps such surveys should lead to more media commentary about popular outdoor activities other than hunting and fishing. I've described several outstanding hiking locations in this state in previous months, but this month I'm turning to a discussion of bicycling as an outdoor activity.

I have to confess that I'm much more of a runner and hiker than a bicyclist, but I do occasionally enjoy getting out my old hybrid bike (a cross between a road and trail cycle) and trying an interesting location.  I'd do a whole lot more bicycling if I didn't have a little fear of riding on public roads and encountering auto drivers who are ill prepared for sharing the road.  That isn't a problem on most outdoor trails.  There my only concern is hitting a unforeseen rock or root and having a different sort of crash landing.  Many folks are more adventurous and capable than I am on a bicycle and venture more often to various biking destinations. 

Many parks and recreational areas in Louisiana have good paved or unpaved trails to challenge cycling skill and energy levels.  Yet there is one place in particular that many recommend for its diverse assortment of easy, moderate and very demanding bike trails.  It's even been promoted as one of the top 20 mountain or trail bicycling challenges in the country and the best found in the Deep South.  The Lincoln Parish Park, just outside Ruston on the road to Farmerville, is highly recommended for its tranquil beauty, as well as a bicycling test and adventure.  I was glad to spend a day there recently.  I'm hardly capable of making it through all of the ten miles of the advanced or expert trail, but riding parts of this, the almost four-mile beginners trail, and some of the paved pathways was a good challenge and workout for me.  I really needed a mountain bike, though, for some of the advanced trail.  My hybrid bike and tires were a bit flimsy to navigate over larger roots, branches, and other trail bumps.

Much of the credit for creating this biking bonanza in Lincoln Parish goes to Frederick Hoogland and James Ramsaur who envisioned and developed the park and biking trails in the nineties.  On a typical day at the park, you’ll encounter a diverse assortment of outdoor enthusiasts, including retirees, Tech students, children, and folks just taking a break to eat lunch in a beautiful setting.  Swimming, boating and fishing opportunities exist on the park's 30-acre lake, which has a nice sandy beach area for sunbathing.  Many picnicking and cookout areas can be found nearby under the abundant pine trees.  RV and camping sites are available near the lake, as well as a well-equipped playground facility for children.

For those specifically interested in trail or mountain biking, the Louisiana Off-Road Cycling Organization (LOCO) offers a web site (www.locomtb.com) and information about this and other biking trails and cycling events over the year in the state.  You can also visit Turbo Goat, the bike sales and repair shop in downtown Ruston, to get local cycling news and to be better prepared for a ride on the advanced and other trails at this park.

You don't actually have to visit the Lincoln Parish Park to get a vivid impression of the types of challenge found on its bicycle trails.  Several YouTube videos currently available on the internet show experienced bike riders negotiating parts of the advanced trail, and these can put you behind the handlebars for their rides.  These videos can never substitute, though, for exploring the many park trails on your own leisure and at your own level of cycling skill.