This Trail Is One Of The Most Unique Hiking Trails In Louisiana

The Tammany Trace is one of the most unique hiking trails in Louisiana. Not only is it one of Louisiana’s longest paved trails, but it’s also Louisiana’s only rail trail. Originally a corridor for the Illinois Central Railroad, 31 miles of old railroad tracks were paved over to make a pathway connecting five towns in St. Tammany Parish. Since none of these towns were ever going to be a stop on the railway ever again, it’s the perfect example of upcycling! Speaking of cycling, this trail is excellent for cyclists and rollerblading, and it’s even wheelchair accessible. Let’s check it out:

You don’t need to tackle the entire 31 miles of the trail to enjoy the Tammany Trace.

Celeste Sampey/All Trails Although, you’re welcome to if you get an early start to your day!

There are trailheads located in each town where you can park and start your adventure.

Alvin Middleton/All Trails The trailheads are in Covington, Mandeville, Lacombe, Abita Springs, and Slidell.

The asphalt trail will take you alongside beautiful waterfront areas…

Kirt Moret/All Trails

…and deeply forested canopies with towering pines.

Sharon Audler/All Trails It’s the best of both worlds! And since the trail is paved, it’s great for rollerblading, casual bike riding, and is wheelchair accessible, too.

There are several points along the Trace where you’re reminded of the history of the trail.

Kirt Moret/All Trails And several scenic spots like this one to stop and admire the views.

Each trailhead is nearby to restaurants, cafes, and shopping, too.

Stephanie Wilson/Google You might even stumble into a Farmers’ Market or other community events, which are commonly held on the weekends at these trailheads.

For a full map of the Tammany Trace, visit the trail’s official website.

Celeste Sampey/All Trails

Although, you’re welcome to if you get an early start to your day!

Alvin Middleton/All Trails

The trailheads are in Covington, Mandeville, Lacombe, Abita Springs, and Slidell.

Kirt Moret/All Trails

Sharon Audler/All Trails

It’s the best of both worlds! And since the trail is paved, it’s great for rollerblading, casual bike riding, and is wheelchair accessible, too.

And several scenic spots like this one to stop and admire the views.

Stephanie Wilson/Google

You might even stumble into a Farmers’ Market or other community events, which are commonly held on the weekends at these trailheads.

While the Tammany Trace is the longest paved trail in Louisiana, the Wild Azalea Trail is the longest primitive trail in the state. This forest trail in the Kisatchie National Forest clocks in around 24 miles and will have you traversing some of the most remote areas in the Pelican State!

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Address: Tammany Trace, Tammany Trace Bike Trail, Mandeville, LA 70448, USA