Backbone Trail Sounds Intimidating, But It’s One of the Best Hikes in Louisiana

The Backbone Trail might sound like a scary hiking trail in Louisiana, but don't let the formidable name scare you away. While it's one of Louisiana's more challenging hikes, the reward is worth the effort. Instead of flat swampland, this scenic hiking trail in northern Louisiana's Kisatchie National Forest, near Natchitoches, features rocky overlooks and rolling hills. This high-elevation area is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Louisiana," and the landscape takes many people by surprise.

Why Is It Called "Backbone Trail"?

This strangely named hiking trail gets its name from the rocky spines that wind through the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness. A far cry from the bogs and marshes most people associate with Louisiana, this hiking destination follows a series of high-elevation ridgelines that resemble the "backbone" of the landscape. As you hike, you'll spend much of the trail walking along these ridges before entering the dense woods of the Kisatchie National Forest. Clearings in the trees provide some of the widest views in Louisiana, showcasing rolling hills that feel worlds apart from the rest of the state.

What the Hike Is Actually Like

Don't let the fact you're in Louisiana fool you. This is one of the state's most demanding hikes, at just under 15 miles long with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. Most people rate it as moderate, but frequent elevation changes and oppressive humidity can make it feel more challenging.

The scenery is what catches many people off guard. Instead of swamps or cypress forests, you'll hike through longleaf pines and hardwoods that don't look like they belong in Louisiana. After crossing Bayou Cypre around the halfway point, you'll climb to one of the region's highest points, where several clearings offer panoramic views of the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness. You won't find any waterfalls in Louisiana here, but there's so much else to see that you won't miss them. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, armadillos, squirrels, turtles, and a variety of birds. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers, while fall offers cooler temperatures and hints of autumn color.

What to Know Before You Go

Parking for the Backbone Trail is free at the main trailhead along the Longleaf Scenic Byway. The parking area includes a restroom and information kiosk. You don't need a permit to hike the trail, and there is no entrance fee for the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness. Keep in mind there's no drinking water available anywhere along the route, so bring more than you think you'll need.

Although the trail is well-marked, conditions can change throughout the year. The best time to go hiking in Louisiana is late fall through early spring, when cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable experience. Summer brings intense heat, high humidity, and plenty of mosquitoes. Leashed dogs are welcome. Be aware that hunting is permitted in portions of the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness during designated seasons, so it's a good idea to wear bright colors.

Is The Backbone Trail Worth Hiking?

If you're looking for one of the best hikes in Louisiana that breaks every stereotype about the state, the Backbone Trail is worth adding to your list. This trail is a great fit for those who enjoy a physical challenge and hidden hiking trails in Louisiana with varied scenery (and unusual hiking trail names, of course). On the other hand, the Backbone Trail may not be the best choice if you're looking for a family-friendly hike due to the length and elevation.

Visit the U.S. Forest Service website for more information about the Backbone Trail. Overall, this hike offers one of the most unique experiences the Pelican State has to offer. If you're willing to put in a little extra effort, you'll be rewarded with a side of Louisiana that many people don't realize exists. Wondering if there are any other strange hiking trail names in Louisiana? Check out the Tree of Soles!