There’s nothing like getting outside and exploring Louisiana’s beautiful natural scenery on foot. Luckily, Louisiana has no shortage of beautiful natural wonders that will mesmerize you, and we’ve got some of the best natural wonders that you should add to your outdoor bucket list for 2020.

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1. Cypress Island Nature Preserve at Lake Martin

This swampy ecosystem is quintessential Louisiana landscape at its finest. Not only is Lake Martin one of Louisiana’s largest nesting colonies for several species of water birds, but it’s also used as a rookery year-round for many other species we well. Home to countless scores of alligators, snakes, turtles, and nutria, this beautiful haven is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream.

2. Kisatchie National Forest

Louisiana’s only national forest deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. Spanning over 600,000 acres across seven parishes in Louisiana, this gorgeous landscape is filled with hundreds of miles of primitive trails that are perfect for the outdoor explorer.

3. Grand Isle

Down at the tip of the boot lies Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island, and boy is it pretty. Whether you’re looking to do some fishing or just sink your toes into the sand, Grand Isle is ideal for anyone looking to sit back and enjoy the simpler things in life.

4. Honey Island Swamp

Located in St. Tammany Parish, the Honey Island Swamp is one of the most pristine river swamps in the country. The best way to see the swamp is by taking a swamp tour, where you’ll be able to experience the sights and sounds of the swamps from the water.

5. Atchafalaya River Basin

Clocking in at almost one million acres, the Atchafalaya Basin is the largest river swamp in the country. Not only is it larger than the Florida Everglades, but it’s five times more productive than any other river basin in North America, and it’s right in our own backyard. With over 65 species of reptiles and amphibians and over 250 species of birds calling the basin home, it’s a nature lover’s dream and easily one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Louisiana.

6. Driskill Mountain

At 535 feet, it’s not much of a mountain, but it’s all we have. Located near Bienville, Louisiana, this little mound of dirt has a trail that you can take straight to the summit, offering rare tree-top views. You can even see Louisiana’s other mountain, Mount Jordan, from the top.

7. Barataria Preserve

With over 30,000 acres of beautiful marshes, swamps, bayous, and forests, the trails at Barataria Preserve will take you quite the journey. The boardwalk trails allow you to venture into parts of the swamps that you wouldn’t be able to get to any other way, offering a rare glimpse at this stunning scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for gators and snakes, the preserve is home to hundreds of them and it’s almost a guarantee you’ll see some type of wildlife while you’re there.

How many of these beautiful spots are you planning on visiting this year? Let us know in the comments below!