Day Trips from New Orleans
← All New Orleans day tripsDay Trips from New Orleans: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of New Orleans, LA. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near New Orleans
Louisiana State Arboretum State Preservation Area
Ville Platte, LA 70586
Just 2 hrs 50 min from New Orleans, rated 4.8 stars by 165 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Acadiana Park Nature Station
Lafayette, LA 70501
Just 2 hrs 4 min from New Orleans, rated 4.7 stars by 310 visitors, rich in history and well worth exploring.
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
LA 70072, USA
Just 25 min from New Orleans, rated 4.7 stars by 2,139 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fontainebleau State Park
Mandeville, LA 70448
Just 44 min from New Orleans, rated 4.7 stars by 3,958 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Clark Creek Natural Area
Woodville, MS 39669
Just 2 hrs 12 min from New Orleans, rated 4.7 stars by 541 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge Fontainebleau Nature Trail
MS 39564, USA
Just 1 hr 34 min from New Orleans, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Twelve Oaks Nature Trail
Ocean Springs, MS 39564
Just 1 hr 30 min from New Orleans, rated 4.6 stars by 200 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Northlake Nature Center
Mandeville, LA 70448
Just 41 min from New Orleans, rated 4.6 stars by 283 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Camp Salmen Nature Park
Slidell, LA 70460
Just 42 min from New Orleans, rated 4.6 stars by 484 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Joyce Wildlife Swampwalk
Ponchatoula, LA 70454
Just 46 min from New Orleans, rated 4.6 stars by 271 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cypress Island Preserve
St Martinville, LA 70582
Just 2 hrs 7 min from New Orleans, rated 4.5 stars by 154 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lake Ramsay Preserve
Covington, LA 70435
Just 55 min from New Orleans, rated 4.3 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from New Orleans
What are the best hiking trails near New Orleans, LA?
The best hikes near New Orleans range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near New Orleans?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near New Orleans offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from New Orleans?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near New Orleans are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near New Orleans?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near New Orleans. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
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