The 7 Best Backroads In Louisiana For A Long Scenic Drive

Sometimes you just want to jump in the car and drive. Getting off the interstate and driving down those country back roads allows you to see parts of the state you normally wouldn’t. So crank that music up, roll those windows down, and take a drive down one of these Louisiana back roads for a beautiful scenic drive. Be sure to pack some epic road trip snacks for the drive!

1. Creole Nature Trail

The Creole Nature Trail is one of the most underrated attractions in Louisiana. This 180-mile All-American Road will have you cruising through southwestern Louisiana's beautiful natural landscape with plenty of opportunities to stop off and stretch your legs. I'd recommend bringing your swimsuit along so you can splash in the Gulf of Mexico when you arrive at Holly Beach!

2. Historic Hwy. 80

The 105-mile stretch from Ruston to the Louisiana/Mississippi state line is known as the Historic US 80 Dixie Overland Byway, and you can expect to see spacious farms, forested landscapes and views of the Ouachita River.

3. LA-444

LA-444 from St. Vincent to Ponchatoula stretches for 32 miles and will bring you through small towns and around the Tickfaw River for some beautiful views. Check out some of our favorite restaurants in Ponchatoula while you're in town!

4 Longleaf Trail Byway

If you really want to spend some time driving down a Louisiana backroad, the Longleaf Trail Byway is the one to take. It’s only 17 miles, but you’ll experience views that’ll make you think you’ve stepped out of Louisiana. Driving through the Kisatchie National Forest, you’ll see rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and some of the most varied terrain in the state. If you want to get out and stretch your legs, take the Longleaf Vista Nature Trail from the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area.

5. River Road

One of the oldest roads in Louisiana, River Road follows the Mississippi River for more than 700 miles, and is one of the most scenic routes in Louisiana. Several plantations line the road from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, and many offer tours, and since it's so easily accessible from both it's definitely one of the best driving roads near New Orleans if you want to hop in the car and see the historic sights.

6. Oak Tunnel

This little stretch of St. Bernard Highway is sure to take your breath away. Drive under 200 to 300-year-old oak trees that form a canopy above you as you drive by. The entire road hugs the Mississippi River, and also offers some beautiful views.

7. Toledo Bend Forest Scenic Byway

The perfect time to drive down this byway is in the spring and summer, when the wildflowers are in full bloom. The byway runs along the Toledo Bend Reservoir, and you’ll be sure to catch some epic sunsets if you time your drive right.

Both North Toledo Bend State Park and South Toledo Bend State Park bookend the Louisiana side of the reservoir, and are ideal for an extended getaway. You can rent one of the cabins, pitch a tent, or bring your own RV.

Have you been on any of these scenic drives in Louisiana? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!