Posted in Louisiana July 17, 2019 by

The 17-Mile Scenic Drive In Louisiana You Will Want To Take As Soon As You Can

Gas up the car, it’s time for a road trip! Today, we are trading our picture-perfect bayous and swamp scenes for a truly unique landscape that many don’t realize is hiding right in the heart of Louisiana. The Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway is one of the most scenic routes in Louisiana, and it belongs on everyone’s bucket list.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Ready for an adventure?
Louisiana Travel/Google
The beautiful Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway will show you a side of Louisiana you never knew existed.
The roadway passes through the heart of the Kisatchie National Forest.
Google Maps
The 17-mile route runs along Forest Road 59 connecting LA Highways 117 and 119, about 30 miles south of Natchitoches.
When you’re looking to hit the open road, there’s no better byway. Roll your windows down, crank up the music, and get ready for a beautiful drive.
Louisiana Travel/Google
This particular drive covers some of the most unique and varied terrain in Louisiana. Elevations range from 80-400 feet above sea level - something Louisianians certainly are not used to.
Be sure to stop off at the Longleaf Vista Overlook.
Brian Verdin/Google
You’ll see signs for the turn-off from the main road and you can drive your car right up to the overlook.
Known locally as the "Little Grand Canyon," this vista view is one for the books.
Ensignmitch/Google
It’s not often that you get to see treetop views in Louisiana!
mark eric/Google
There’s a 1.5-mile interpretive loop trail that will have you traversing through the canopies of bottomland hardwoods and rocky terrain.
Thomas Harmeyer/Google
You’ll be second guessing if you’re still in Louisiana.
It's truly a little pocket of paradise that few Louisianians have ever seen.
Ryan Lewellen/All Trails
And since it's centrally located in the state, there's no reason you shouldn't make plans for an epic road trip with family and friends!
With views like this, you may never want to leave.
Jonathan Nutt - Getty Images
And that's quite alright! You can bring a tent and spend a day or two out here exploring the many trails throughout the Kisatchie National Forest.

Have you ever driven down the Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway? Let us know in the comments below!

For more scenic byways in Louisiana, check out our previous article here.