Louisiana National Champion Cypress Tree

The bald cypress at Cat Island is estimated to be around 1,500 years old, standing 96 feet tall with a trunk that measures roughly 56 feet around. Recognized as a national champion, it has survived centuries of seasonal flooding and change. The day I photographed it was extremely hot and humid, and I didn't see anyone else out there. The road in was rough, with deep potholes, and I wasn't even sure at first that I was headed the right way. After a short hike without much to mark the trail, and with just a small board falling apart, there it was, this massive tree that has been standing there for centuries. I set up my camera and took the photograph.