Barataria Preserve Trails and Waterways

Look closely at trailside vegetation: you may see an anole hiding in plain sight.

Current Conditions

Be sure to check our Current Conditions page for the latest updates.

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The main page for the Barataria Preserve includes hours and days of operation, program listings, and other useful information; you may also want to look at the preserve's .page of frequently asked questions. The preserve's trail map and trail descriptions (you're welcome to download and print these pdfs) show distances, trail types, picnic areas, restrooms, roads, and waterways and describe history, habitats, and what you may see on your walk. For special information during hot, humid weather including a hot weather safety map, follow the link.

The Bayou Coquille Trail, Visitor Center Trail, and Palmetto Trail are wheelchair accessible.

The brochure for a self-guided tour of Pecan Grove (459kb pdf) is available. You can also pick one up at the preserve visitor center.

For an armchair "walk" along the Bayou Coquille and Marsh Overlook Trails via photos and phone, check out the Barataria Preserve Virtual Tour.

 

A crawfish mound on the forest floor

Summer in south Louisiana brings mosquitoes, heat, and high humidity. When you walk or paddle the preserve, you'll want to bring along a hat, insect repellent, and bottled water. Move a little more slowly to avoid overheating and you may see details that you could otherwise speed right by!

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Trail Tips

• Stay on boardwalks and trails.
• Food is not allowed on the trails. Wild animals should never associate humans with food. Do not feed animals.
• Leave plants and animals as you find them. Do not pick flowers or dig up plants. Do not tease or try to catch animals,insects or reptiles.
• Follow these links to read about safety and pets at the preserve.