Baton Rouge is a city of many surprises and mysteries, but did you know it has a botanical garden in it? Managed by LSU, this isn’t a smooth collection of plants – it’s an untamed collection of Louisiana plant life ripe for a day of exploring. On Black Swamp Trail, you’ll discover secrets around every corner in a way that could only happen in Louisiana.

Black Swamp Trail is a unique trail located in a Baton Rouge botanical garden. You'll find museums and exhibits on your way.
Kathy Hayden/AllTrails
But to truly experience the area, you'll want to wander off the main path and into the forests beyond.
Angela Baker/AllTrails
The trail is managed by LSU, so you'll find a well-mapped area that makes it suitable for even beginner hikers.
Sean McAllister/AllTrails
At only 2.2 miles, this hike is mostly on boardwalk terrain and can be traversed with comfortable shoes. It's an ideal family hike.
Kathy Hayden/AllTrails
Along the way, you'll see some friendly faces among the local wildlife.
Jasmien Fisher/AllTrails

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Some may be better admired from a distance! Nature lovers will appreciate the up-close and personal look at Louisiana's flora and fauna.
Jasmien Fisher/AllTrails
While most of the terrain is smooth, it's easy to see that this is an off-the-beaten-path experience. But the best secret is coming up...
Carmen Ross/AllTrails
Black Swamp Trail is home to a unique sculpture garden of some fascinating handmade designs celebrating the local culture and ecosystem.
Kathy Hayden/AllTrails
You might see some real deer along the way too, but these two make much better companions for memorable photos.
Crystal Hebert/AllTrails
Before you head back around the loop and towards the visitor's center, make sure to take in the local foliage. It's a rare encounter with a genuine Louisiana swamp inside a botanical garden.
Nicole Charnews/AllTrails

Have you explored Black Swamp Trail at the LSU AG Center Botanic Gardens? Let us know your favorite discoveries in the comments section. Before you journey into the swamp, make sure to check what the entire gardens have to offer at their website.

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LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens, 4560 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70809, USA