Take the Scenic Route

For a unique way to explore the Louisiana Northshore, hop on a bike and pedal. The charming towns of St. Tammany Parish are all linked via the Tammany Trace, a beautiful winding path through the tall pines of the parish. The 31 miles of Rails-to-Trails conversion was the first of its kind in Louisiana. Each town culminates with a trailhead at its center—a hot spot for revelry, gatherings, events, music performances, farmers markets and other fun. You’ll find many places to park and enter the Tammany Trace while having nearby trailhead amenities such as bathrooms, water fountains, splash pads and more.

After the Illinois Central Railroad line was abandoned, it was later remodeled into a hiking/biking/walking trail to be enjoyed by all for both leisure and for a workout. The Tammany Trace stretches from downtown Covington through Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and currently ends in Slidell with more plans for expansion.

It also serves as a wildlife conservation corridor and tracks through parks and wetlands, bayous and rivers with scenic overlooks throughout. You’ll find wildlife including exceptional locations for birding enthusiasts, as well as native flora and fauna. Live oaks and other trees provide a canopy of shade throughout your time on the Trace as well.

Accessible for All

The Tammany Trace is ADA accessible. Whether you are venturing out for fun or looking to train with serious riding and running groups, patrons of all abilities are welcome. The Trace is home to many races that use its length and ideal flat terrain for 5K’s and bicycle races.

If you feel like horsing around, the Tammany Trace also has an accompanying horse trail that runs parallel to the paved trace for equestrian activity.

Friendly Local Bike Shops

If you don’t have your own bike or didn’t bring it on your trip with you, there are multiple local bike shops that rent and are conveniently located along the Trace.

Brooks’ Bike Shop is a Veteran-owned business by Patrick Brooks and has been around for years. Even if you have your own gear, you can stop in for a tune up, fill your tires with air or even grab some fresh fruit.

Brooks operates three bike shops on the Northshore with Trace access: one near the Mandeville lakefront, one in Slidell and another in downtown Covington at the start of the Tammany Trace bike path. He also has self-serve rental stands in Abita Springs. Guided tours of Old Mandeville, Covington and the Trace can be scheduled with as few as three people, and there’s even a brewery tour by bike.

New this year are rentable electric bikes with pedal assist to take the Trace with ease. These e-bikes are allowed to travel up to 15 miles per hour on the Trace. You can also rent pull-behind carts for kids, gear changing bikes, etc. Visit BrooksBikeShop.com for more information.