One of the most scenic spots in Louisiana isn’t near New Orleans or the coast, but in northern Louisiana in Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

Located within the city limits of Monroe, Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a 5,300-acre park under the protection of the National Park Service. The central feature of the park is the 1,600-acre Black Bayou Lake. The 1.5-mile Nature Trail and wildlife pier showcase the pristine wetland habitat protected in the park.

Start your journey to the Nature Trail at the Visitor Center, where you’ll find information on the refuge and a nature store.
D. Taylor/Google
The boardwalk ventures into a flooded hardwood forest and cypress swamp, two ecosystems that make up most of the refuge.
Green Wolf/Alltrails.com
Sometimes, with heavy rains, the boardwalks become flooded themselves. Call ahead to make sure everything is open!
Keep a sharp eye out for wildlife; alligators, snakes, frogs, and numerous species of birds all make their homes here.
Kaile Finies/Alltrails.com

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The wildlife pier juts out from the trail into Black Bayou Lake for stunning views of the water and Louisiana wildlife. Sunsets on the water are magnificent.
Anirudh Girey/Google
The water is often filled with lily pads, offering a suitable swamp habitat for native animals and fish.
Green Wolf/Alltrails.com
Another great thing about a hike in the swamp: virtually zero elevation gain. The trail is easily accessible, comprised of boardwalks, pavement, or gravel depending on the spot.
Tom Brenna/Google
Most wheelchairs and strollers should be able to handle the hike.

Aside from the Nature Trail and pier, the wildlife refuge features hiking trails and an arboretum with over 150 species of native trees and plants. You can even rent a canoe or kayak at the visitor center to continue your exploration of the lake on the water.

You can learn more about the wildlife refuge at its website. Additionally, the Friends of Black Bayou website has some more detailed information about the trails and rentals.

Have you visited Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge? What was your experience there? What creatures did you see? Let us know in the comments!

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Featured Addresses
Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 480 Richland Pl, Monroe, LA 71203, USA