How to's & Considerations

Guide to understanding the LOAT. The "Routes" are made up of two components: Sections & Waypoints.

Sections:

-Sections are simply suggested start and end points typically ending at popular campgrounds.  They range in distance anywhere from 100 to 140 miles typically. Consider your fuel ranges in between given Fuel waypoints, also reference business hours to ensure you'll have access to pumps.  The "Notes" can be helpful.

-Naming: Each section is generally named based on the end points, However, some may be named for the POI in which that section takes you to or by. These will be noted as OPT/EXT for (Optional or Extensions). Lastly, BYPASS sections will be on sections used to bypass road types, conditions, or temporary detours.(Refer to "Notes" for specific details)

-Colors: Sections will be natively colored for there type. Main sections will be PURPLE while OPT/EXT will be GREEN. BYPASS sections will be ORANGE. Technical trails or important disclaimer trails are RED (Note: OnX app makes every section the same color when importing the GPX file. Consider changing them to match these native colors)

Waypoints:

Each .gpx file contains a collection of waypoints to help you on your journey.

Waypoints for towns along the route will be labeled with the services they offer. While some notable businesses or places may be Indicated individually if they are unique or have certain attributes to showcase.

Additional:

Our designated track colors will translate to Garmin devices and Gaia, but some platforms (including Gaia) may inadvertently change the track colors. We recommend you manually change the track colors on your navigation device to match ours for easier reference. 

Using a PC or Phone simply go to File Download and fill out the Terms and Conditions waiver and submit. You will be provided a link, and an email with the link, to our "Downloader" where you will have a few options to choose from to fit your needs. Further instructions are provided for each option.

Yes, any GPS unit that supports GPX import should work. Refer to the manufacturer on how to import and use GPX files.

GPS tracks can be used in either direction. They are simply a static colored line that you follow, and they do not change, move, or respond. 

It is important to download offline maps before leaving internet service and have the LOAT GPX file downloaded on your phone.

With a Gaia or OnX Premium account for example, you can download the offline maps of a designated area while on wifi. This will allow you to have the full map data, even when there is no cell service.

We strongly recommend doing this before you go.

Typically no, whether in a overland vehicle or a motorcycle most of the roads are easy to manage. HOWEVER, 1 notable issue is dirt roads after heavy or recent rains. Some of the roads can get quite treacherous in these conditions. We can't possible know at all times the state of these roads. It is recommended you do your best to consider recent weather events when planning.  If on a motorcycle or not equipped for slippery mud, there typically should be a BYPASS option nearby whether indicated in the GPX or not. Use good judgement.

Additionally, at times roads can be flooded watch for "High water" signs, sometimes they are present, but not always. Again, use good judgement.

Single lane roads: Many of the roads can be narrow with lots of blind hills and turns, always drive with the expectation there is someone coming on the other side, ensuring you'll be ready for when it actually happens.

VERY IMPORTANT Some of the routes and campsites are part of Louisiana's Wildlife Management Areas. All activities require annual (or 5 Day) access permits and self clearing permits (at the time of activity) with notable exceptions for driving through on the most direct route without engaging in any activity. It is your responsibility to understand and comply with these requirements. Learn more HERE 

The National forest has some National Wildlife Management Preserves which complicate the dispersed camping matters a bit. We've been in contact with the forest's public affairs manager, and this is the best we can tell you about dispersed camping at this time:  "Dispersed camping (camping outside of a designated recreation area) is welcomed across the Kisatchie National Forest. If you are packing in your tent on foot or on horseback, you are welcome to camp most anywhere outside of a designated recreation area. If you are camping from your vehicle, you are welcome to pull off most any road and camp up to 100 feet from the centerline of road on either side, unless otherwise noted by special designation in the Motor Vehicle Use Map for that District. The Catahoula National Wildlife Management Preserve in Grant Parish and Winn Parish on the Catahoula Ranger District and Winn Ranger District does not allow dispersed camping. The Red Dirt National Wildlife Management Preserve in Natchitoches Parish on the Kisatchie Ranger District allows dispersed camping from a vehicle on specified roads. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Maps for roads designated specifically for dispersed camping (Visit>Visitor Maps and Guides>(select Ranger District of choice)>(select Motor Vehicle Use Map)."

 We will add any updates or amendments to this statement as we get them.

VERY IMPORTANT Louisiana is a very active hunting state. With most of the National forest's and WMA's open to public hunting, it is important to be prepared and understand the risks while overlanding through these areas. If you venture off the roads on foot at any point it is advised to have hunter's orange on. Even on designated hiking trails. Also, be considerate to others whom are engaging in hunting activities. Don't loiter unnecessarily on the trails if you feel like hunters are present. Hopefully preventing any negative engagements. 

With the use of so many parish roads it's inevitable that some of them pass by/through rural homes and communities. Country folks can get warry, especially of changes in activity in the area. While we understand these roads are public, it is also wise to be considerate. Obey speed limits, watch for kids at play signs, use an abundance of caution just in general. Be polite and friendly. Understanding that that one lone trailer house at the end of the long DIRT road, may be the only thing keeping that road public for us to enjoy. In our attempts to create these routes we've encountered so many awesome roads, that were simply abandoned by the parish due to the lack of public need. Be good stewards!

Some campgrounds will not take drive in visitors (Thanks Covid) Please consider this when planning your trip. Check websites or call ahead.

It can be expected at times that road conditions worsen or unplanned exits from the road can occur, it's best to be prepared. Downed trees can be an issue at times as well, if space is available a chainsaw isn't a bad idea. 

Primitive campsites: Often these sites aren't well cared for at all times, especially "Hunter's camps", when they are only tended to during hunting season. Rakes, hoes, or weedeaters can come in handy. WMA campsites also require human waste management if there are no on site facilities.

Many of the sites, restaurants, fuel stations etc will have unique and varying hours of operation. Plan ahead. Some of the waypoints will have this info in the notes section.