Even though the city of New Orleans doesn't offer many hiking trails, the surrounding areas do have several great trails, including those along the Mississippi River. Also, a few impressive wildlife refuges and parks are located on the Gulf of Mexico coast.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is the closest large park to the city. It offers the Barataria Trail, a 4-mile (6.5 km) trail featuring the best of Louisiana scenery, with wildflowers, swamps, large oaks, marshes, and alligators.
Only a 45 minute drive from the city, Fontainebleau State Park features a boardwalk nature trail with views of the marsh and the lake. The park trail is about 5 miles (8 km) long.
The Mississippi River Trail is the most popular among locals. It's a paradise for pedestrians and cyclists with paved and unpaved pathways running along the Mississippi River in the New Orleans area. Some parts of the trail go through rural landscapes, while other parts cross industrial city sections and piers.
Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge boasts lush flora and fauna. The most popular short hike in the area is the Ridge Trail Boardwalk providing views of a variety of habitats. Another option is the Maxent Levee trail (3-mile walk one way) with some great wildlife watching opportunities from the crown of the levee.
The best time for hiking near New Orleans is during the cooler and dryer season due to unbearable heat and high humidity in the summer.
Practical info
What are some popular hiking trails near New Orleans?
You can explore the Barataria Trail in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, which is known for its wildflowers, swamps, large oaks, marshes, and alligators. The Mississippi River Trail is another option, offering paved and unpaved pathways running along the river. Fontainebleau State Park has a boardwalk trail that stretches 5 miles and offers lovely views of the diverse landscape. Show more
Where can I enjoy wildlife watching while hiking around New Orleans?
Wildlife watching is best enjoyed at Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, an area with lush flora and fauna. Opt for the Maxent Levee Trail, which runs 3 miles along the crown of the levee, or the Ridge Trail Boardwalk, a short but rewarding hike that passes through different habitats. Show more
When is the best time to visit New Orleans for hiking?
The optimal time for hiking in New Orleans is between September and May, during the cooler and dryer months, avoiding the excessively humid summer. Show more
Are there any guided hiking tours available near New Orleans?
Guided hiking tours are available around New Orleans, ranging from bird watching, historical tours and swamp and bayou tours. Popular options include Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours, Honey Island Swamp Tours and Cajun Encounters Swamp Tours that will enhance your overall experience. Show more
Are hiking shoes necessary for the trails near New Orleans?
Hiking shoes are essential for the trails near New Orleans. Due to wet marshy terrain on popular trails, such as Barataria Trail, hiking shoes offer good grip and stability. By reducing the risk of slipping and offering added support, waterproof hiking shoes ensure a more comfortable and safe experience. Show more
