5 Great Hikes Found Near New Orleans

If you love hiking, you’ll love the top hikes found near New Orleans. There are several great places to go hiking near the city and some are found just outside the main areas. Here’s a look at 5 of the top choices for hiking near New Orleans.

Mississippi River Trail

Maybe the closest and the most popular of the hiking options for those living in New Orleans, the Mississippi River Trial has plenty to offer. There are actually two trails; one on each bank. The East Bank trail runs from Audubon Park about 6 miles in total, while the West Bank Trail runs about 5.3 miles.

The Barataria Trail at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

It’s found about a half-hour outside the city and provides one of the best hiking trails around. Enjoy this 4-mile trail with beautiful scenery including swamps, live oaks, wild flower sand so much more. You may even spot a few alligators and other wildlife along the path.

Along with the Barataria Trail, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is home to the Ring Levee Trail and the Plantation Trail. Both are closed for repairs, but will reopen at some point.

Bayou Sauvage NWR Ridge Trail & Boardwalk

Maybe you want to enjoy the Madere Marsh, green spaces and lagoons. If so, this trail is the one for you. Just know, you may see an occasional gator on this trail. If you’re looking for a trail near New Orleans that offers something for everybody, this may be it. The Boardwalk goes for about three-quarters of a mile and the Ridge trail covers 6.8 miles, but it is only a one-way path.

Bonnet Carre Spillway Boat Launch Pavilion

This 5.2-mile trail offers a great option in Laplace for those that enjoy water views. It’s complete with plenty of cypress trees and shrubbery. You may even spot some wildlife along this trail.

Woodlands Conservancy Park

Found in Plaquemines Parish, this conservancy offers three looping trails totaling more than 5 miles. The Woodlands Trail is very popular because it offers educational features and some history about coastal forests.

There are plenty of great hiking options found near New Orleans. Choose one of these five and enjoy some time outside this weekend.