New Orleans Louisiana HIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE


Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near New Orleans, Louisiana.



1. Lafitte Greenway

Urban Green Oasis. Stroll along a lush 2.6-mile converted canal stretching from the French Quarter to City Park. This smooth, paved trail offers easy walking or biking with vibrant neighborhood scenery. Stop at local snack spots along the route as you soak in city and nature vibes.

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2. Couturie Forest

Wild City Escape. Lose yourself in 60 acres of woodland, lakes, and Louisiana's highest point within City Park. Explore mulched and natural trails suitable for easy walking and wildlife spotting. The tranquil setting provides a refreshing break just minutes from downtown.

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3. Bayou Sauvage Ridge Trail

Wetland Wildlife Walk. Wander raised boardwalks and levee trails through one of America's largest urban wildlife refuges. Spot alligators, songbirds, and marsh vistas on this easy, flat trail perfect for all levels. Listen for chirping frogs and enjoy peaceful wetlands right inside city limits.

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4. Woodlands Conservancy

Historic Forest Hikes. Traverse more than 10 miles of easy multi-use trails in a protected forest filled with history and wildlife. Discover WWII ammunition bunkers along oak- and cypress-lined paths. Look out for songbirds and wildflowers as you explore this nearby natural retreat.

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5. City Park Perimeter Trail

Classic Park Loop. Circle City Park's lush grounds on a 6.66-mile paved multi-use path. Gaze at ancient oaks, sparkling lagoons, and golf courses along this easy, flat urban adventure. Ideal for a long walk, jog, or relaxing bike ride amid iconic local scenery.

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6. Cypress Swamp Boardwalk

Bayou Wonder Walk. Step onto a scenic 0.75-mile boardwalk trail circling Big Lake in City Park. Enjoy views of native wildlife, vibrant flowers, and whimsical art installations. Perfect for families and those craving a soothing stroll by the water.

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7. Barataria Preserve Nature Trail

Swamp Adventure Trail. Embark on an easy, flat network of over 8 miles of boardwalk and dirt trails. Witness alligators, turtles, and over 200 bird species in the heart of delta wetlands. Boardwalks let you wander safely above lush swamps and marshes in this natural wonderland.

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8. Audubon Louisiana Nature Center

Bayou Learning Paths. Meander on paved and mulched loops through vibrant native forest. Enjoy easy trails, birdwatching, and interpretive exhibits tucked inside New Orleans East. The center's peaceful setting offers a quick nature fix and educational fun.

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9. Fountainbleau State Park Trails

Lakefront Woodland Trails. Explore seven miles of shady, easy trails through forests, marshes, and along the Lake Pontchartrain shoreline. Marvel at ancient oak groves and catch glimpses of local wildlife. Sunsets over the lake create the perfect end to your hike.

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10. Bonnet Carre Spillway Trail

River Levee Trek. Hike a five-mile levee and forest trail system just upriver from New Orleans. Enjoy peaceful woods, open floodplain vistas, and the thrill of hiking where the Mississippi occasionally flows. An easy, family-friendly destination away from city bustle.

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