Lafayette Louisiana HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Lafayette, Louisiana.
1. Acadiana Park & Nature Station
Urban Forest Escape. Wander through 6 miles of shady, wooded trails right in Lafayette. Enjoy diverse habitats, boardwalks over wetlands, and frequent bird sightings. Trails range from easy strolls to moderate loops perfect for families and casual hikers.
< MORE INFO >2. Northern Tract Loop Trails
Secluded Wooded Adventure. Explore 3.5 miles of interconnecting loops in the quieter, northern section of Acadiana Park. Experience tranquil forested paths with minimal crowds. Ideal for peaceful, moderate day hikes just minutes from downtown.
< MORE INFO >3. Southern Tract Boardwalk Trails
Wetland Wonders Walk. Stroll accessible boardwalks through lush wetlands and bottomland forest in Acadiana Park's southern tract. Spot wildlife and enjoy easy, family-friendly routes with restroom facilities nearby. Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome on these flat, scenic paths.
< MORE INFO >4. Chicot State Park
Backcountry Lake Loop. Challenge yourself on a legendary 19-mile loop encircling a sprawling lake, with shorter sections available. The terrain features rolling hills, scenic water views, and overnight primitive campsites for backpackers. Trailheads and parking are plentiful for flexible adventure starts.
< MORE INFO >5. Arboretum Loop Trail
Botanical Forest Ramble. Meander beneath towering hardwoods in the Louisiana State Arboretum, adjacent to Chicot State Park. Discover well-marked, easy to moderate trails highlighting native plants and wildlife. Enjoy educational signage and peaceful, natural beauty all year round.
< MORE INFO >6. Cane River National Heritage Trail
Historic River Journey. Follow a scenic byway and walking path along the storied Cane River, surrounded by plantation landscapes and historic sites. Walk or hike flat, easy terrain perfect for history lovers and photographers. Interpretive stops highlight the area's rich Creole culture.
< MORE INFO >7. Creole Nature Trail
Wildlife Refuge Path. Venture into a National Scenic Byway flanked by marshes, prairies, and Gulf beaches. Enjoy boardwalk hikes where alligators, birds, and wildflowers abound. Easy, mostly flat trails make this perfect for nature enthusiasts and families.
< MORE INFO >8. Tammany Trace
Rail Trail Adventure. Explore a 31-mile paved pathway converted from a former rail line, stretching through several Northshore towns. Walk, run, or bike through wooded corridors, wetlands, and quaint communities. Flat, accessible, and well-maintained for all skill levels.
< MORE INFO >9. Kisatchie National Forest Trails
Piney Woods Trek. Hike through Louisiana's only national forest, featuring rugged hills, longleaf pine forests, and clear-running streams. Trail options range from short loops to challenging backcountry hikes. Wildlife spotting and spring wildflowers make every visit memorable.
< MORE INFO >10. Lake Martin Levee Trail
Birding Swamp Walk. Walk beside cypress-tupelo swamps teeming with birds, alligators, and native wildlife. Flat, easy levee paths circle Lake Martin, a hotspot for nature photography. Early mornings provide stunning misty views and prime birdwatching opportunities.
< MORE INFO >
Lafayette Attractions
Discover the best attractions and things to do near Lafayette, Louisiana.
Lafayette Restaurants
Dine at the best restaurants and places to eat near Lafayette, Louisiana.