Louisiana, the sportsman’s paradise, offers the perfect opportunity to switch things up during the normal wind and grind of the fall semester. Only a couple of hours outside Baton Rouge, the state offers plenty of hiking trails with activities for everyone from the casual hiker to the extreme outdoorsman.
Here’s a quick rundown of the options for day hiking around Baton Rouge and a comprehensive guide for the adventurous soul looking to try something out of the ordinary.
1. BARATARIA PRESERVE – Arabi
Distance from LSU: 95 miles (about two hours)
Cost:Free
Features:The area offers a number of trail loops and off-shoots that range from a quarter of a mile to just under two miles and makes the area a great place to take a casual walk and see the unique sights of the bayou. Visitors can also canoe and kayak in Barataria’s seven waterways and canals, which range from less than a mile to more than five miles. Rangers are available at the area’s visitor center to give guests information about the different plant and animals species. The area also houses a museum and theater which both provide information of the history of Jean Lafitte Park for free, according to Derek Bardell, a ranger at the park.
What people are saying:Bardell said the area offers the opportunity to see the natural habitats of different plant and animals species all with a great view of the marshes.
2. TUNICA HILLS – St. Francisville
Distance from LSU: 48 miles (a little more than an hour)
Cost:Free, but any person wishing to make a trip to Tunica Hills must either have a valid Wild Louisiana Stamp, a valid Louisiana fishing license or a valid Louisiana hunting license and fill out a registration form at the area.
Features:The area features four trails ranging from one mile to four miles in length over hills, bluffs and waterfalls. For those wishing to stay the night, there is a designated campsite in the area that is limited to tent use. Restrooms are available on the grounds. Visitors looking to stay hydrated must bring their own water to drink.
What people are saying:“Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area and the surrounding area is unlike anything that you will see in southeast Louisiana,” said Jillian Jordan Day, a biologist with the park. “It is amazing how a short drive can take you from cypress, tupelo swamp and into upland hardwood habitat with hills and bluffs. I do recommend taking a trip to Tunica Hills in the fall as the leaves are changing.”
3. KISATCHIE NATIONAL FOREST – Pineville
Distance from LSU: 131 miles (about two and a half hours)
Cost:It is free to hike the trails, but there are small fees for the amenities, like picnic areas, or for the use of motorized vehicles on trails.
Features:The area is Louisiana’s only national forest and allows for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking at no cost in most areas, according to Amy Robertson, public affairs specialist. The Wild Azalea trail, which Robertson said is one of the area’s most popular trails, offers 30 miles of scenic views and the opportunity for more casual hikers to jump on and off the trail at its numerous segments.
What people are saying:“Within all of our trails, we have something for everyone from beginners to experienced hikers,” Robertson said.
