225BatonRouge.com

A dozen cyclists from around the world recently rode 2,225 miles from Mobile, Ala., to Ontario, marking the opening of a new bicycle route that traces the history of the Underground Railroad. Baton Rougean Alvin Justelien (right), 48, was the “conductor,” leading his “passengers” safely to the end of the line. Riders used the constellations as their guides, weaving through the country in search of safehouses and the perfect piece of pie.

“Analogies and joking aside, this was really an emotional trip for all of us,” Justelien says. “I saw a grown man brought to tears when we visited the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (Cincinnati). It’s an important part of our history that most people like to forget, but it’s important to look back, remember and learn from our past.” adventurecycling.org