![]() Louisiana State Arboretum Tour, Chicot State Park Ville PlatteĬhicot State Park in south central Louisiana is a botanic gem that makes for a perfect hike. This trail’s payoff comes when, in the hush of the pine forest, you hear the nearby sounds of a jungle! Those would be the residents of the local chimpanzee sanctuary the trail circles their home, hence its name. This is a popular spot for mountain bikers as well, so keep an eye out for them. The 6.5-mile dirt loop is fairly rugged and would be considered moderate. One of the more unique places for a day hike on this list is the so-called Monkey Trail in Eddie D. It’s a collection of privately owned lands (or spots operated by The Nature Conservancy) where visitors can marvel at the dazzling array of birds, including spoonbills, pelicans, osprey, and more. The Grand Isle Birding Trail is also worth checking out. ![]() It’s an easy 2.5-mile loop, and you’ll want to make sure you bring binoculars so as not to miss out on the sightings. It’s also directly on the migration path for many species of birds, which is what makes the nature trail at Grand Isle State Park so special. Jean Lafitte’s pirates once lived here, and the small coastal community has long attracted anglers and outdoors enthusiasts. Just 2 hours due south of New Orleans is the coastal area of Grand Isle. Also be on the lookout for black bears and wild boar prints. Keep an eye out for migratory birds, including Cooper’s hawks. Hit Trail C for a 3.5-mile moderate hiking loop (there are a couple of steep hills) that will take you through hardwood forests, bluffs, and a sandy dry creek bed. The Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area is managed by the state’s Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and offers visitors some incredible hiking and birding opportunities. Trail C, Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area Saint Francisville While there’s a 1,100-foot elevation gain, you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous, verdant hike that includes a clear creek and the wispy wild azaleas that pop in March and April. Like the Caroline Dormon Trail, the Wild Azalea Trail also features shallow creek crossings. They are rolling and not enormous, but you will feel them in your legs. While the first several miles are easy, the hills pick up. If you’re looking to work in some cardio, this might be the spot for you. At 24 miles long, it’s the longest hiking trail in the state, so unless you’re feeling really ambitious, it’s best to pick up a section or two instead of taking on the entire thing. Kisatchie’s Wild Azalea Trail, named for its breathtaking floral residents, is located in the Calcasieu District. Wild Azalea Trail, Kisatchie National Forest Woodworth This trail meanders through the forest and is the perfect place for a meditative, peaceful adventure. There are several small stream crossings, so you’ll want to make sure your footwear is hardy and waterproof. The trial is rated as moderate with a 500-foot elevation gain. Keep in mind that it is not a loop, but a point-to-point trail that ends near the Kisatchie Bayou Recreation Complex, where there are primitive camping sites available. The 10.5-mile, well-marked trail is mostly dirt and is a favorite for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. It has a trailhead where day hikers can park and use the facilities before heading out. The Caroline Dormon Trail can be found in the Kisatchie District, west of Alexandria. Two of our favorite hikes are located in Kisatchie. The forest isn’t contiguous rather, it’s divided into five separate districts. ![]() Mostly, you’ll find piney forested hills featuring caves, meandering creeks, and gorgeous vistas. This isn’t all swampland, although spots do get marshy. Kisatchie is the only national forest in Louisiana and runs through seven parishes in the north central portion of the state. Caroline Dormon Trail, Kisatchie National Forest Provencal They are perfect for getting your steps in, spotting wildlife, and taking in Mother Nature at her bayou finest! Here are 10 of our favorite Louisiana hikes that will allow you to see some of the most beautiful spots in the state. It’s great fun to explore this special place, and one of the best ways to do so is on foot. The state has a rich, diverse ecosystem that ranges from beach, swamps, and coastal lowlands to surprisingly rocky outcrops and steeper hills than one might expect from a place where many areas are actually below sea level. ![]()
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