Q: What is Circumnavilake and why does it have that name?
A: To circumnavigate means to travel completely around something, such as the Earth, an island, or a body of water. Over the course of two days, we circumnavigate Lake Pontchartrain. The name Circumnavilake is a playful combination of the words circumnavigate and lake.
Q: Can anyone join?
A: Not really. We have limited resources to manage this event and we simply can't allow it to grow too big. But if you want to organize your own event, all of our planning tools, maps, schedules are available on this website.
Q: What are the dates?
A: We aim for Columbus Day weekend each year. This year, 2026, that is Oct 10 & 11.
Q: What does it cost to ride?
A: $195. This includes camping accommodations in Fontainbleau park, dinner on Saturday night, a small breakfast on Sunday, and pizza on Sunday when we return to Laketown, near the Treasure Chest Casino.
Q: How is the collected money spent?
A: Each year we keep a detailed budget and list of expenditures. The park reservation, meals provided, and trailer rental are the biggest part of the expense, but we also reimburse our volunteers for their gas and supplies. What isn't spent on those things is donated to Bike Easy, an organization in New Orleans dedicated to making bicycling easy, safe, and fun for everyone in Greater New Orleans.
Q: What is the total mileage?
A: Day 1 is approximately 87 miles. Day 2 is approximately 68 miles. For a total of 155 miles.
Q: Why do you take the route that you do? Have you considered other routes?
A: The route we have today is based on input from many riders over the past 10 years. It's certainly not perfect and small changes are tried each year. The biggest challenge in any route modification is keeping the two days reasonably balanced in mileage and time and not adding any significant mileage overall. The second challenge is in safely connecting the circle from the lake to the river. By making this connection at Williams Blvd, we minimize mileage. By making this connection the very first segment on day one, we strive to minimize risk. If you have ideas on how to improve, please let us know!
Q: Riding Hwy 11 bridge in Slidell is legal. Why not take that and save over 8 miles.
A: Two reasons really. One, Hwy 11 goes over Lake Pontchartrain, not around it. If we did that, we'd have to change the name of the ride. And secondarily, it's way too risky. But thanks for asking.
Q: How long does it take?
A: We aim to keep together and to keep an overall pace of around 14-16 mph. We start riding at 7:00 AM on Day 1 and reach camp about 5:30 PM. Day 2, we're back on the bikes by 10:00AM and end back in Laketown at 5:00 PM.
Q: Where is "camp"?
A: Camp is Group Camp 3 in Fontainebleau State Park, around half-way between Mandeville and Lacombe.
Q: Describe the camp
A: Group Camp 3 consists of 3 main buildings. Two dormitories and a large galley kitchen. It can officially accommodate up to 65 people. Total camp size is just over 4 acres, and includes access to a pond with a pier. There are two designated areas for campfires.
Q: Do I need to sleep in a bunkhouse? Can I bring my own tent?
A: Official park policy states that we can not set up tents. Be prepared to sleep in a bunk, but do talk to us for additional details.