The Largest Lake In Louisiana, Lake Pontchartrain Is A Beautiful Piece Of Living History
Louisiana has an abundance of waterways. From the Red River down to the Atchafalaya River Basin, the Bayou State is peppered with waterways of all shapes and sizes. Growing up in Louisiana, you’ve probably spent much of your life on the water. We learn to fish, crab, kayak, and boat from an early age, and we’re always looking for that next river or lake to explore. Lake Pontchartrain is the largest lake in Louisiana, and it’s certainly worth a road trip.

Technically, the lake is actually more of a tidal lagoon since it connects with Lake Borgne through a a narrow passage called The Rigolets.

The lake averages a depth of about 12-14 feet, with some shipping channels kept deeper through dredging to ensure ships can pass safely through. The lake is about 40 miles from east to west and about 24 miles from north to south.

Those six parishes are St. Tammany Parish, Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, St. John the Baptist Parish, St. Charles Parish, and Tangipahoa Parish.

In 1699, French explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville renamed it to honor Louis Phelypeaux, the Count de Pontchartrain who served as minister of finance during King Louis XIV’s reign.

Sailing on the lake is quite popular, too.

This 24-mile bridge connects New Orleans with the north shore and offers some beautiful skyline shots and endless water views.

Fontainebleau State Park is a great option. Not only do they have several trails that will lead you around the lake, but a beautiful pier and a sandy beach to sink your toes into.

There are several benches so you can sit back and enjoy the view, plus a few playground peppered along the park for the little ones.

Pro trip: the Mandeville Lakefront is one of the best places to watch the sun set over the lake.

For a sensational sunset dinner, head over to The Blue Crab.
When was the last time you visited this stunning slice of paradise? What is your favorite way to explore this Louisiana lake? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.