Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in New Orleans, United States
1. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Explore swamp trails and learn about Cajun and Creole culture in this unique national park.
- Historical Significance: Unique blend of history, nature, and culture.
- Swamp Trails: Trails offer a glimpse into the diverse wildlife of the region.
- Cultural Education: Learn about Cajun and Creole history through exhibits and guided tours.
2. Barataria Preserve
Experience the Louisiana bayou on a self-guided hike with opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Wildlife Spotting: Home to alligators, otters, and various bird species.
- Self-Guided Trails: Multiple trails with varying difficulty levels.
- Boardwalk System: Protects the delicate wetland ecosystem while providing excellent views.
3. Fontainebleau State Park
Discover beautiful lakefront trails and a historic plantation at this state park.
- Historic Plantation: Visit the historic Buret House, a Creole-style mansion.
- Lake Pontchartrain: Scenic views of Lake Pontchartrain and its wildlife.
- Variety of Trails: Offers easy, moderate, and difficult trails for all skill levels.
4. City Park's Big Lake Loop
Enjoy a peaceful urban hike around New Orleans' largest park.
- Urban Hiking Experience: Hike in the heart of the city amidst trees and wildlife.
- Scenic Views: Stunning views of City Park's lakes, gardens, and iconic statues.
- Dog Park: A designated off-leash area for dog lovers.
5. Lake Ponchartrain Lighthouse Trail
Follow the lakeshore to a historic lighthouse and enjoy coastal views.
- Historic Lighthouse: Visit the restored Lake Ponchartrain Lighthouse.
- Coastal Views: Take in breathtaking views of the lake and its wildlife.
- Beach Access: Relax on one of the beaches along the trail.
6. Tammany Trace Bike Trail
Explore the Northshore's natural beauty on a scenic bike trail.
- Scenic Biking Experience: Enjoy beautiful landscapes and wildlife along the way.
- Length and Difficulty: Covering 31 miles, the trail offers a challenge for experienced bikers.
- Connections to Attractions: Links to restaurants, shops, and historical sites in Covington and Mandeville.
7. Kenilworth Park and Faulkner State Park
Hike through the dense hardwood forest of Kenilworth and explore the coastal marshes at Faulkner.
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience both hardwood forests and coastal marshes.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot birds, alligators, and other wildlife.
- Fishing and Boat Launch: Facilities for fishing and launching boats in Faulkner State Park.
8. Fontainebleau Forest
Hike through the diverse terrain of Fontainebleau Forest and enjoy its natural beauty.
- Diverse Terrain: Includes swamps, bayous, and sand hills.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot deer, raccoons, and various bird species.
- Historical Significance: Home to the historic Chalmette Battlefield where the Battle of New Orleans took place.
9. Louisiana Northshore Wetlands
Explore the coastal wetlands on a guided kayak tour or fishing expedition.
- Kayak Tours: Guided tours offer opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about the ecosystem.
- Fishing Expeditions: Experience fishing in the Louisiana wetlands with a local guide.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
10. Honey Island Swamp Tour
Take a boat tour through the Honey Island Swamp for an authentic bayou experience.
- Authentic Bayou Experience: Experience the Louisiana swamp as it was hundreds of years ago.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot alligators, otters, and various bird species.
- Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides share information about the ecosystem and local culture.
11. Lake Maurepas Estates-Prairie Nature Preserve
Hike through this nature preserve to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot deer, raccoons, and various bird species.
- Scenic Beauty: Beautiful views of Lake Maurepas and its surrounding wetlands.
- Nature Photography: Ideal for nature photography enthusiasts.
12. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bike Path
Cycle across the longest continuous bridge over water in the world on this scenic bike path.
- Scenic Biking Experience: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Pontchartrain and the city skyline.
- Length and Difficulty: Covers 24 miles, making it a challenge for experienced cyclists.
- Connections to Attractions: Links to restaurants, shops, and attractions in Mandeville and Metairie.
13. Lake Catherine Recreation Area
Hike through the woods and relax at this peaceful recreation area.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A serene environment for relaxation and reflection.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot deer, squirrels, and various bird species.
- Picnic Spots: Perfect for picnics with family or friends.
14. Gretna Battlefield Park
Visit the site of a key Civil War battle and explore its historical trails.
- Historical Significance: Site of the Battle of New Orleans during the Civil War.
- Scenic Beauty: Beautiful views of the Mississippi River and its surroundings.
- Educational Opportunities: Interpretive markers explain the battle's history and significance.
15. Northlake Nature Reserve
Explore this protected area for a peaceful hike and birdwatching.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A serene environment for relaxation and reflection.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, including herons and egrets.
- Nature Photography: Ideal for nature photography enthusiasts.