Lookout View

2 pm on a weekday and we saw one alligator! Even if we hadn't, the bayou trail is a lovely introduction to the swamp and marsh environments. Informational plaques line the ~1 mile trip out to the overlook. The wood on the boardwalk is soft in some places, but still sturdy enough.

If you feel cooped up, bored, even down in the bumps, get out there. Its nature. Essentially where we came from. This is one of the few spots where one can see primitive Louisiana. The swamps, the wild. Jean Lafitte himself ran through these swamp many years ago. He and his gang of Baratarians helped Andrew Jackson royally defeat the British at the end of the battle of New Orleans in 1815.

These swamps are old. Very old. Theres plaques of information through the trails. Species of plants, about native Americans, and even the logging that happend there back in the 1800s.

Perfect for all ages

Whether a local or visits. The smells of the swamp water fill the nose with vigor. The sight of the dark, still swamp waters, tall, thick, very old cypress trees, the hanging Spanish moss hanging from their branches give an eerie feeling about the place. Almost spooky. Itll bring you back in time for sure.

If you're lucky, you'll see an alligator or more! Please view from a distance. As they can be dangerous and unpredictable, especially a mama gator.
Fat squirrels run about stuffing their faces with fallen acorns. Birds of many species seem like statues in the water as they stand motionless in the shallow swamp water stalking small fish and frogs.
The sight of wild hog presence is obvious. Hoof prints and rooted up marshland is the result of their unwanted presence. Also, view from a distance. As they can be aggressive is approached.
Take your pictures and videos as needed, but please be respectful of this land. Stay on the trails and dont destroy nature.

Absolutely love it out here! Always a chance to see alligators, snakes, and various other swamp life.
Easy trails, convenient parking, and friendly rangers make this a must see for anyone who has the time.

If you're quiet you will see a lot. Love the overlook at the end of the trail.

At this time of the year it is very pleasant to walk the trail, no stifling heat or mosquito's but at the same time the chance of seeing some interesting wild life like alligators or snakes is very low.
I still like to follow the board walks to the end.
I like crossing the bridges, which are used as look out and let you cross the historic old logging cypress canals.
There is a crossing where you can see all the way towards the city and you realize how close nature in New Orleans actually is.

Great short hike destination. Recommend doing this in the winter, though. But I don’t like hot weather at all - so judge accordingly. The Bayou Coquille trail is the best short hike near New Orleans.

Such an awesome vantage point!

One of the quickest ways to escape the city and connect with nature. I always see many alligators and once I even saw a wild boar.

Fabulous lot's of critters

So beautiful

Great little nature trail.

10/10

Love the tranquility

AMAZING!!!!

Usually a good bit of wildlife to see. Just wish they would do something about all the hyacinths that have taken over most of the canals.