Somewhere between Natchez, Mississippi and Lake Chicot in Louisiana it hit me. Road tripping has changed. Sure, it’s common to jump in your car with the family and head out for a weekend. Sometimes it’s as simple as hopping a flight, and ending up at your final destination. However, the idea of following an established route has gone to the wayside (see what I did there?). The advent of mapping services – first on the internet, followed by the convenience of your phone has changed the way that we travel. The shortest route reigns supreme – and paths that were forged across America have been swallowed by convenience.
One of the perks of my job, is the ability to see the country – often on the most off beaten path. Last month, my team embarked on a one-way road trip of the Southern Mississippi River. Our jumping off point was the beautiful city of Memphis, TN – and our route concluded a week later outside of New Orleans. Our route followed the Mississippi River, and took us through parts of America that often aren’t highlighted on “bucket lists.” As you can see in the following issue – that didn’t matter one bit.
I believe that exploration and discovery are two of life’s greatest experiences. Without them, there’d be no stories to tell around the campfire. “Let me tell you about the time that we camped in the exact same spot, ate the same meal, went to bed at the same time, and took the same route home…” is the start of one of the worst stories ever.
I hope that you enjoy the recap of our exploration of the Great River Road. It was a ton of fun to put together. A bit of advice – if you live in a Northern climate, and want to visit – wait until the Fall. While the scenery was beautiful, the people friendly, and the food delicious – the temperatures were unbearable at times. Oh well, live and learn.
Now, onto the next adventure!
Nick
50 Campfires
Exec. Dir.
