Road trip NOL to Miami

Question

I know it’s a long way away, but next April I’m planning a road trip from New Orleans to Key West (part of a ‘Top Left’ to ‘Bottom Right’ of USA using Car / Amtrak). I’ve allowed 7 days from NOL to Key West which shows as total drive time of around 17 hours (never enough I know!). I’d like to ‘Hit the highlighhts’ in terms of State Parks / viewpoints / back roads and obviously keeping well away from freeways (where possible). Can any kind person suggest deviations / parks / routes which might be fascinating? Other than NOL, I’ve no interest in cities, although I will spend some time in NOL before my 7-day car trip (Been there a couple of times before - The Spotted Cat is a must for me!). Regards, Brian.

Answer

What a fantastic road trip you're planning! A journey from New Orleans to Key West over 7 days will give you plenty of time to explore the scenic routes, parks, and hidden gems along the way. Since you're aiming to stay off the freeways and enjoy state parks, viewpoints, and back roads, here are some suggestions for an unforgettable trip. I’ve planned out routes that will give you a chance to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of the areas you're passing through.

Day 1: New Orleans to Baton Rouge (Approx. 1.5 hrs)

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge – Before leaving New Orleans, head to this lesser-known gem on the outskirts of the city. It’s a peaceful spot to experience the bayou with plenty of birdwatching and walking trails.
Audubon State Historic Site – Located near Baton Rouge, this site commemorates the life of the famous naturalist John James Audubon. It offers scenic views of the Mississippi River and walking trails.

Day 2: Baton Rouge to New Iberia (Approx. 2.5 hrs)

Louisiana State Arboretum – Located in Ville Platte, this state park offers peaceful walking trails and a rich diversity of plant life. Perfect for a nature walk and a bit of solitude.
Lake Martin – Known for its swampy views, this spot near Breaux Bridge is perfect for bird watching. It’s especially famous for its cypress trees and wildlife.
Shadows-on-the-Teche – In New Iberia, this historic plantation home offers an intimate look at southern history and beautifully manicured gardens.

Day 3: New Iberia to Lake Charles (Approx. 2.5 hrs)

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve – This park offers a look into the wetlands of Louisiana and the history of the Acadians who settled here. The Barataria Preserve features hiking trails through bayous, wetlands, and swamps.
Creole Nature Trail – Consider this scenic byway through Louisiana's Gulf Coast for wildlife viewing, including alligators and migratory birds. The trail offers coastal views and the opportunity to stop at various nature preserves and parks.

Day 4: Lake Charles to Houston, Texas (Approx. 3 hrs)

Sam Houston National Forest – Just outside of Houston, this sprawling forest offers a peaceful retreat. You can explore the woodlands on foot, enjoy the picturesque ponds, or take a leisurely drive through the area.
Big Thicket National Preserve – A beautiful and diverse ecosystem, Big Thicket offers numerous trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of East Texas.

Day 5: Houston to Beaumont (Approx. 1.5 hrs)

Bannister Wildlife Management Area – Explore backroads and enjoy birdwatching and quiet nature hikes through a variety of landscapes, including wetlands, woodlands, and marshes.
Village Creek State Park – This park, known for its serene setting along the creek, is a great spot for kayaking and hiking. The area is full of wildlife and beautiful views.

Day 6: Beaumont to Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Approx. 3 hrs)

Tyler State Park – Located just off I-10, this park offers scenic trails and a lovely lake for a peaceful stop. It’s a beautiful spot for a hike or a quiet picnic.
Louisiana State Penitentiary (Angola Prison) – For something unique, you might want to explore the Angola Prison Museum (although check for visiting times and availability) and see how this rural area is part of Louisiana’s history.

Day 7: Baton Rouge to Key West (Approx. 5 hrs)

Everglades National Park – As you move closer to Florida, make sure to stop by the Everglades National Park. You’ll experience one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, with the opportunity for airboat tours, wildlife viewing, and walks through cypress swamps.
Big Cypress National Preserve – This preserve is another opportunity to get off the road and experience the natural beauty of the Everglades with scenic drives, hiking, and bird watching.
Florida Keys Scenic Highway (Overseas Highway) – When you get closer to Key West, make sure to drive the famous Overseas Highway. The drive itself is breathtaking, with views of the turquoise waters below, and plenty of opportunities to stop at small keys for a quick dip or a relaxed lunch.

Some Final Tips:

As you’re not interested in cities, your best bet is to focus on state parks, wildlife areas, and scenic byways along the way. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, but make sure to check in advance for any road closures or trail conditions, especially in the more remote areas.
Since you'll be driving long distances, try to make stops every 2-3 hours to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural surroundings. It's always worth it to take the scenic route instead of pushing straight through.

This road trip will be a perfect blend of natural beauty, scenic backroads, and quirky stops. Enjoy every moment of your journey to Key West!