“I hear the train a comin’, it’s rollin’ round the bend…”, we could image the chugging of the engine as it slowly moved along the tracks…the sound of the horn as the train approached an intersection…
As we rode The Tammany Trace we could hear Johnny Cash’s song in our heads and imagine the train moving through the area, passing through the towns along the route. The peacefulness of the trail soothed us and spurred our imagination. It was one of those rare Louisiana days that everyone dreams of – sunny and cool. A perfect day for bike riding and The Tammany Trace (The Trace) was the perfect place to enjoy the day and biking.
The Trace is Louisiana’s only Rails to Trails using the original corridor of the Illinois Central Railroad. The 31 mile asphalted trail connects Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and Slidell. There is also an equestrian trail that parallels the route. The trail includes bridges built on the original railroad trestles.
Mandeville Trailhead
Our first day we rode from Fontainebleau State Park to The Trace headquarters at the Caboose Trailhead, 16.5 miles round trip. This was an easy ride with very little grade. We enjoyed the canopy of trees and the quietness of the trail between our campsite and Mandeville Trailhead, 4.0 miles. Arriving at the trailhead we decided to stop and relax at the Shiver Shack enjoying an iced coffee. The iced coffee is more like a snowball since they used the same type ice. A great way stop with outside tables and a friendly owner. While having coffee and chatting with the owner, we viewed the lunch menu. John immediately decided “dogs” for lunch.
Shiver Shack Snack
From Mandeville Trailhead to Caboose Trailhead, 4.29 miles, was more populated with four way stops and highway crossings. The ride was pleasant with open spaces and more to see. Just before arriving at the Caboose the trail passes under I-12. The quietness of the trail gave way to the hustle and bustle of the interstate which thankfully was not long.
Caboose Trailhead
The Caboose Trailhead is the headquarters of The Trace and includes a ranger station. The area is fenced and is also home to Kids Konnection, Louisiana’s only Boundless Playground. Here children with or without special needs have a safe environment to play.
Back on The Trace for our return ride. Shiver Shack and lunch were on our radar. John could smell the sausage grilling and his taste buds were on high alert. Shiver Shack didn’t disappoint – polish dog, fries, cole slaw, and corn grits. Enough food to share and enjoy while we visited with a local biker who rides the trail daily. After enjoying way more food than we should have, thankfully the last leg was only four miles.
Polish Dog
Sides
The day was perfect for biking and the trail was serene and relaxing. We could imagine riding the rails many years ago.
