Adventure Outdoors Magazine Fall 2017 | Page 132

Outdoor Lafayette also happens to be situated on the Mississippi Flyway and the Atchafalaya Loop of America ’ s Wetland Birding Trail . Nature watchers and photographers have access to some of the best birding sites in North America , including Spanish Lake . At last count , birders have spotted 240 species in its expansive shoreline and bottomland hardwood forest .
If paddling is your passion , Lafayette is the perfect starting point to explore their rivers , swamps and bayous . The newest addition to Lafayette ’ s paddle trail is the creation of a three day , three night paddle trip that takes you through two parishes and multiple cities along the way where both primitive camping and lodging is available .
There ’ s no other place where you can experience multiple types of fresh and saltwater fishing all within a short drive of Lafayette . Cast your line from the shore of some of the most peaceful fishing spots along the banks of Lake Martin or the Atchafalaya Basin . Paddle or launch your boat near the Gulf of Mexico to discover the abundant species of fish , crabs and shrimp that can all be caught and cooked in a day .
Whether your passion is for their rich cultural history , the bustling culinary scene or distinctive blend of Cajun and Zydeco music , you can be sure you will leave beaming from ear to ear .
© Denny Culbert © Philip Gould
Festivals No matter what time of year you visit Lafayette , they will have something for you to celebrate . That ’ s in large part because the region is teeming with celebratory events year round , from the largest outdoor francophone festival in the world , Festival International , to the fall ’ s Festival Acadiens et Creoles , and of course Mardi Gras . One thing unique to Lafayette is the free concert series that take place in the fall and spring . Starting on Wednesday and going through Friday , each evening in the fall and spring is filled with live music courtesy of local and traveling acts , all for free .
© Jamie Orillion © Lafayette Travel