These 8 Hiking Spots In Louisiana Are Completely Out Of This World

They don’t call Louisiana Sportsman’s paradise for nothing. What we lack in elevation we make up for in density of flora and fauna. All across the state there are amazing opportunities to reconnect with nature. From waterfalls, to gulf beach vistas, to marsh trails with alligators; Louisiana has everything a nature lover could want.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. Tunica Hills WMA / Clark's Creek, near St. Francisville, LA Pack and Paddle Some of the highest bluffs within 3 hours of southern Louisiana, the Tunica Hills wildlife management area offers some of the most beautiful terrain in the state. Cross over the border to Mississippi for a pleasant day hike or explore the miles of trails and camping in the Tunica Hills WMA area. 2. Louisiana State Arboretum in Chicot State Park, Ville Platte, LA Louisiana State Arboretum The covered walkways and trails through the arboretum offer a unique educational experience for visitors. Wildlife and foliage are identified by clear and informative signs throughout the trails. Perfect for kids! 3. Grand Isle Birding Trail, Grand Isle, LA Flickr / Billtacular Home to some of the most spectacular sunsets in the state, Grand Isle is also a favorite stop over point for birds from around the world. Visit during the migratory bird festival to catch beauties like this Indigo Bunting. 4. Caroline Dormon Trail, Kisatchie National Forest Flickr/Finchlake2000 The Caroline Dormon Trail in the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area is named for the first woman employed in forestry in the United States (1930). Visit here for views of Kisatchie Bayou. 5. Barataria Preserve Trails, Jean Lafitte National Park Flickr / Ken Lund Just minutes away from downtown New Orleans, these covered walkways through the marsh are a perfect way to get a taste of the swamp when visiting the city. Aim for April or May to see the blooming Louisiana Iris. Look out for gators! 6. Wild Azalea Trail, Kisatchie National Forest Pack and Paddle The longest trail in the state, this 28-mile hike offers a variety of ecosystems. Go in March and April to admire the blooming wild Azaleas that are this trail's namesake. 7. Toledo Bend Reservoir Trails, North Toledo Bend State Park Flickr / Barclay Nix The trails at the largest man-made reservoir in the country offer beautiful vistas along with some of the most popular fishing areas in the state. Look out for Bald Eagles! 8. Chicot State Park, Ville Platte, LA Flickr/jillian.e One of the longest trails within a state park in Louisiana, the 22-mile hike around Chicot lake offers breathtaking views of Cypress Swamp. Primitive campsites are stationed all along the way--but be sure and bring your own water!

So before you say there’s nowhere to hike in Louisiana, make sure you check out some of these amazing trails. Have a favorite that you don’t see here? Put it in the comments below!