Louisiana is well known for its flat, swampy wetlands, but if you want to see a completely different side of Louisiana, head to the central portion of the state. The Kisatchie National Forest is Louisiana’s only National Forest, and it’s a beauty. The 600,000-acre forest sprawls across multiple parishes and boasts hundreds of primitive trails that would take a lifetime to traverse. One of the best introductions to this hidden gem is to take the Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway, a short, sweet, and scenic byway in Louisiana that’ll give you a taste of the Kisatchie.

The Longleaf Trail Byway is only 17 miles, so it’s easy to knock out in just an hour or so, but you’ll want to stop off along the way.

Louisiana Travel/Google The byway runs along Forest Road 59 between Gorum and Bellwood, Louisiana.

The forested drive isn’t your typical Louisiana road. Elevations can range from 80-400 feet in the Kisatchie, which may surprise you!

Louisiana Travel/Google

Since the byway is relatively short, you may want to hop out and tackle one of the many hiking trails here.

Tam G./All Trails Here are some of our favorite hiking trails in the Kisatchie National Forest to get you started.

There are two stops along the route: the Kisatchie Ranger Station and the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area.

Wade Thrower/Google Pictured above is the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area. Here you’ll find restrooms, trash receptacles, and seating areas that are great for a picnic.

This recreation area has one of the best bird’s eye views around.

Ensignmitch/Google There’s also a short and sweet 1.5-mile loop trail that’s easy enough for most visitors, but there are some stairs involved.

If you can time your visit around sunset, you’re in for a real treat.

Amanda Lukasik/All Trails You don’t see those treetop views very often!

You may even be inspired to spend a night or two here.

Daniel Sanders/All Trails Primitive camping is allowed on many of the hiking trails and recreation areas, just check the Forest Service website for rules and regulations.

So what do you think, are you up for a scenic drive?

Carrie Chase/All Trails Gas up the car, throw on your favorite playlist, and hit the road!

Ready for more scenic roads? Check out some of our favorite scenic highways and byways in Louisiana.

Louisiana Travel/Google

The byway runs along Forest Road 59 between Gorum and Bellwood, Louisiana.

Tam G./All Trails

Here are some of our favorite hiking trails in the Kisatchie National Forest to get you started.

Wade Thrower/Google

Pictured above is the Longleaf Vista Recreation Area. Here you’ll find restrooms, trash receptacles, and seating areas that are great for a picnic.

Ensignmitch/Google

There’s also a short and sweet 1.5-mile loop trail that’s easy enough for most visitors, but there are some stairs involved.

Amanda Lukasik/All Trails

You don’t see those treetop views very often!

Daniel Sanders/All Trails

Primitive camping is allowed on many of the hiking trails and recreation areas, just check the Forest Service website for rules and regulations.

Carrie Chase/All Trails

Gas up the car, throw on your favorite playlist, and hit the road!

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Address: Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway, 145 Par Rd 830, Derry, LA 71416, USA