Summers in Louisiana can be brutal, but just because the temperatures are rising doesn’t mean you have to abandon your adventurous spirit. When you want to spend some time outdoors, but not necessarily commit to a full day in the Louisiana heat, these short and sweet summer hikes are just the ticket. All of these trails are under three miles in length, and each one offers amazing views of Louisiana’s most beautiful natural scenery.

1. Mandalay Nature Trail

Located in the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge, this trail clocks in at approximately one mile and offers visitors the chance to see countless wildlife and sweeping views of the freshwater marsh and cypress-tupelo swamp.

Address: 3599 Bayou Black Drive, Houma, LA, 70360

2. Restoration Park Trail

Restoration Park Trail includes 1.5 miles of beautiful scenery and is an absolute must for anyone living the northeastern corner of the state. This peaceful trail offers visitors some delightful water views, and the paved walkways and boardwalks make it great for families with kids.

Address: 700 Downing Pines Road, West Monroe, LA 71292

3. Black Swamp Trail

You’ll find the Black Swamp Trail in the LSU AgCenter Botanical Gardens in Baton Rouge. The trail is about 0.7 miles long and this short and sweet hike will lead you through the beautiful garden grounds hiding right within our capital city. There are several trails at the Botanic Gardens, all of which are under a mile long, so you can mix and match depending on your schedule.

Address: 4560 Essen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA, 70809

4. Toledo Bend Reservoir Loop

For stunning water views, the Toledo Bend Reservoir Loop is the perfect spot. Located in South Toledo Bend State Park, this easygoing trail is about 1.5 miles long and great for all ages. The reservoir is known for its world-class fishing opportunities, so bring your fishing pole for a perfect Louisiana afternoon.

Address: 120 Bald Eagle, Anacoco, LA, 71403

5. Nature Trail at Fontainebleau State Park

If you’re in St. Tammany Parish, then a visit to this beautiful 2,800-acre state park is an absolute must. The nature trail is just shy of two miles in length and great for families with little ones. The viewing platforms at the end of the trail give visitors a sweeping view of the water and the chance to spot some wildlife, including gators.

Address: 62883 LA-1089, Mandeville, LA, 70471

6. Audubon Adventure Trail

Part of the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, this trail is less than a mile long, making it easy to knock out in under an hour. Beautiful scenery surrounds you as you stroll through the dirt and boardwalk trails - just keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way!

Address: 11000 Lake Forest Boulevard, New Orleans, LA, 70127

7. Hooper Road Park Trails

There are three different trails under three miles long at this hidden park in Baton Rouge. The trails are popular for both hikers and cyclists, and the intermediate trail has some truly spectacular water views of Beaver Pond.

Address: 6261 Gunnel Drive, Baton Rouge, LA, 70811

How many of these short and sweet hikes have you explored? Let us know in the comments below!

For the epic explorers, be sure to check out the Tammany Trace (over 30 miles long) and the Wild Azalea Trail (31 miles).