A Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To Louisiana’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes And More!

West Monroe is home to the best-kept secret in the state. Kiroli Park features 150 acres of beautifully forested areas that are perfect for a hike. It features playgrounds for the kids, picnic areas, an outdoor theater, a dog play area, and tennis courts. Pappadeaux's Playground is a whimsical area made especially for little ones age six months to four years old. There is plenty to do for everyone at this little stop.

If you are into pristine, white sand beaches, you might want to check out Fountainebleau which is located just north of New Orleans. It is right next to Pontchartrain and offers a beautiful setting, only without the crowds of nearby Florida beaches. You can enjoy 2,800 acres of hiking trails, camping, bayous, and the beautiful white sands.

The cool water is a perfect way to spend a hot summer day. One feature that stands out about this beachfront is that it has a gentle slope, which creates a shallow area that is perfect for children. You might want to try a little canoeing or kayaking, or just enjoy the beautiful sunsets. The beach at Fountainebleau is the perfect way to spend a summer day.

Pontchartrain is the most famous inland waterway in Louisiana, a state that's known for its waterways. The lake covers 630 square miles and is the largest natural lake in Louisiana. Geologically speaking, the landform is relatively young. It evolved between 2,600 and 2,400 years ago as part of the Mississippi Delta. It is a popular destination for fishing and boating of all kinds. If you want an up-close and spectacular view of the waters, you might want to drive across the causeway. You can enjoy several state parks around the shores, including Fountainbleau with a beautiful pier and soft sand. New Orleans offers several restaurants along the lakeshore where you can dine as you watch the gorgeous sunset on your next Lake Pontchartrain visit.

Avery is one of Louisiana's best-kept secrets. Louisiana is known for its islands near the Gulf, but this one has a few things you will not want to miss. Technically, it is not an island at all, but it is a 3-mile pile of salt. Its most famous claim to fame is that it is the home of Tabasco hot sauce. You can even tour the factory.

You will also enjoy exploring the island's old-growth trees covered with Spanish moss. Their twisted, gnarly shapes are a sight to see. If you are a birding fan, Bird City is home to hundreds of species and is famous for its population of Snowy Egrets. This is an especially exciting place to be during seasonal migration. Jungle Garden is the area surrounding Bird City and is home to some spectacular flowers and native wildflowers. Avery is one semitropical paradise that you should visit before summer's end.

If you like to hike or bike, Wild Azalea Trail near Alexandria is one that you must explore. This national park is the longest hiking and running pathway in the state of Louisiana. One of the features that make this hike stand out is the number of ecosystems that you will pass through along the journey. You will enjoy hardwood forests, Longleaf Pines, and bogs. You can also explore a cave or two along the way. During the first weekend in January, the Wild Azalea Challenge allows runners and bikers to test their skill and stamina along this beautiful scenic woodland. Wild Azalea should be on the list of both seasoned and beginner hikers.

For floating down lazy waters past some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, the Amite River is your perfect destination. The trip takes four hours and passes through gorgeous scenery. All you have to do is sit back and relax. You can take a few friends along and float down the river as a group. You can take a break on sandbanks and enjoy a few swimming holes, too. The water is only three or four feet deep in most places. This Amite adventure is the ticket to a relaxing Louisiana afternoon and should be on your summer bucket list.

Louisiana has many beautiful places to explore ranging from cypress tree swamps to waterways and forests. One of the best ways to see one of the most beautiful views in Louisiana is on Driskill Mountain. It is in Kisatchie National Forest and has a gorgeous hike to the summit. Driskill is a rock formation that is a result of erosion. This natural wonder is home to large stands of azalea and dogwood that are spectacular when they are in full bloom.

Please keep in mind to leave no trace, as much of it passes through private property. The hike is about two miles and the elevation gain is gentle, so even beginners can enjoy the hike. It is primitive and is not groomed. You can see many of the surrounding mountains along the way and have some fabulous photo opportunities. The view from the summit is an excellent way to enjoy some fall foliage. Driskill is a hike you should plan soon.

If you want to spend the day surrounded by flowers in a beautiful setting, Burden Museum & Gardens should be on your trip itinerary. It offers a splash of color from early spring through autumn. It is near Baton Rouge and is filled with southern charm. The groomed trails are a joy to walk through, especially at the height of summer. You will enjoy a variety of outdoor rooms, including the herb collection, stone camelia, memory, and tropical setting.

Along your stroll, you might even enjoy the gentle ripple of a waterfall or two trickling over the beautifully landscaped rocks. The Barton Arboretum and Oak Grove are visitor favorites. Every square inch of the gardens is a spectacular sight. The trails in the garden are filled with little hidden gems that you'll discover along the way, so be sure to plan your trip soon.