Louisiana's Natural Beauty Survives Hurricane Katrina

There is no doubt that the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Katrina will take decades to repair. And, some areas may never be rebuilt because of insurance concerns about the water levels in certain parts of the historic city. In this grim situation with rebuilding costs escalating, one would imagine that the outdoor adventures in the great state of Louisiana have suffered a death blow.

However stark the situation may be for the city of New Orleans and surrounding parishes, the good news is that Louisiana remains a premier location to spend time enjoying the bounty of the great outdoors. While some popular tourist attractions and outdoor activities may have been interrupted by the devastating hurricane, the majority of the state's pristine landscape remains intact.

It's important to remember that the entire New Orleans area was once wetlands and encroaching upon this vital habitat definitely contributed to the massive destruction caused by the hurricane. So, the apprehensions of some planners about rebuilding certain sections of New Orleans are baseless.

Wetlands act as a natural sponge which can absorb the hurricane inflicted water surges. It is possible to have averted at least some portion of the damage to the city, had these wetlands not been usurped and built on. The damage could have been reduced, though not completely averted had the wetlands been preserved.

But, New Orleans will be rebuilt, at least most of it. Fortunately, outdoor enthusiasts will not have wait years in order to enjoy the natural bounty that is Louisiana. With lush coastal marshes, cypress swamps, and pine forests dotting the rolling hills of the Louisiana countryside, the state remains a natural splendor filled with possibilities for lovers of the great outdoors.

Visitors find a lot to do in Louisiana besides enjoying the natural beauty of the state. The favorite activities include hiking, camping, fresh water fishing, and cycling through the countryside. No wonder, so many people continue to return to this magical spot on earth. Some even like to take swamp rides in air boats that glide across the swamps and marshes as a means of relaxing. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will enjoy your favorite sport in Louisiana.

The mild winters of Louisiana are a great attraction that lures so many people to this state year after year. Frost and snow are very rare sights in this Southern state. Louisiana thus offers year round outdoor activities which would be impossible due to the harsh winters back home. For now and the foreseeable future, Louisiana continues to be a great place to escape given its stunning environment.

In spite of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, the best part of Louisiana remains intact. The marshes and swamps are still intriguing and filled with strange and wonderful creatures. The lakes, rivers, and streams still provide some of the best fresh water fishing opportunities in the world. Not to mention the abundant wildlife and pristine landscape that still remains intact.