New Orleans to Chicago

[Aidan]

I'm a 34 year old Irishman and I'm interested in cycling from New Orleans to Chicago, following the "Blues Highway" (61).  I intend to stop at Baton Rouge, Vicksburg, Winona, Cleeland, Clarksdale, Memphis, St Louis, Burlington and Davenport.  I've only been to the US once (NY for a weekend), so I don't know what to expect along the way.  Is it possible to do this route safely by bicycle?  When is the best time to go weatherwise? I intend to camp along the way to cut down on costs.  Any advice is appreciated.
Aidan

[rootchopper]

I suggest you look into the Adveture Cycling Associations' Great Rivers route which follows the Mississippi from the gulf states to Iowa, just west of Chicago.

Good luck.

[bikerider359]

I don't know about the other states but Hwy 61 from I 70 in MO. north is a very heavily traveled truck route better to follow Adventure Cyclings Great River route. Better to go in early spring weather in summer is very hot and humid. But if you time it right you can stop in Hannibal Mo on the 4th of July celebration. Hope this helped. Any other questions feel free to contact me. I live about 60 miles from Hannibal and ride in this area  bikerider359@casscomm.com