Top 3 Hardest Hikes In Louisiana: That I've Done (So Far)
Louisiana, known more for its swamps and bayous than its mountains, still offers some challenging hikes for outdoor enthusiasts. For those seeking a rugged adventure, the Backbone Trail in Kisatchie National Forest offers a demanding trek through dense pine forests and steep hills. Meanwhile, the Wild Azalea Trail in the same forest spans over 28 miles. Finally Eddie D Jones Park offers the sounds of monkeys while hiking. These hikes showcase Louisiana's hidden rugged landscapes and challenge hikers to explore beyond its stereotypical flat terrain.
Longleaf Backbone - Kisatchie National Forest
Despite the difficulty, I love this trail. The highlight of the trail comes around the halfway point, where an amazing view of the surrounding forest unfolds. This location also doubles as a backpacking campsite so you may meet other travelers taking a rest. Don't be fooled – this trail is tough. It also isn't a loop, ending a mile from the parking lot. That pavement-inclined hike back is my least favorite part. I prefer to hike this trail in reverse. This way, you'll be closer to your truck when you're finished, even though it means tackling most of the elevation gain when you're tired. Be aware that the trail has several elevation changes, some steeper than others. This 10-mile trail is best enjoyed during the cooler months
One on the best views from the trail heading back into the pine forest!
Monkey Trail - Eddie D. Jones Park
Money Trail, true to its name, borders Chimp Haven. Walking alongside a monkey sanctuary is an experience for the senses. One moment you're on a traditional Louisiana trail, the next, howls erupt from the trees, transporting you to a lush rainforest. Random monkey outbursts aside, the trail was well-maintained, relatively flat, and offered a lot of shade alongside some great scenery. This trail is shared by hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Yield to all users and watch your step, especially on uneven terrain. The hardest thing about this trail is the length. It tops out at 11.1 miles. Hikers can choose the longer, more scenic route and take the switchbacks or opt for a quicker path using the designated shortcuts.
Hilly trail of Eddie D. Jones park
Azalea Trail - Kisatchie National Forest
Honesty Check - I have not completed this entire trail…yet. Clocking in at a demanding 30 miles one way, this Louisiana trail demands dedication from its trekkers. The distance itself presents a formidable challenge: it's a one-way trail, so unless you have pre arranged transportation at the end, you'll need to hike back to the starting point, doubling the distance. To fully experience this expansive trail, consider a multi-day or extended-weekend hike, with camping opportunities along the route. For those short on time, the good news is you can break it into smaller sections and hike them separately. The best time to visit is during spring, when the azaleas that gave the trail its name are in bloom.
