3 minute read
A Nature Lover's Dream Come True
The Northshore has 80,000 Acres of Wildlife Preserves to Explore.
BY DONNA BUSH
SPRAWLING ACROSS THE NORTHSHORE OF LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN is a nature lovers' paradise. Whether your passion is birding, hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, photography or just chilling in the great outdoors, there is something for you.
The spectacularly scenic Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge has over 18,000 acres of freshwater and brackish marsh providing critical habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl, as well as numerous fresh and saltwater fish species, while also protecting our local communities from storm surge. Bald cypress-tupelo forest, bayous, hardwood forest hammocks and pine savanna provide a resting respite for migratory songbirds and home for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.
The best hiking in Big Branch Marsh is found in Lacombe at the Boy Scout Interpretive Nature Trail, with a half-mile self-guided boardwalk trail; or enjoy a 5-mile round-trip hike that will take you to an observation point overlooking the massive marsh. Past the overlook, the habitat changes from pine savanna to a chenier of ancient oaks along beautiful Bayou Lacombe.
Cane Bayou in Big Branch Marsh is the eastern border of Fontainebleau State Park. A favorite pristine, relaxing bayou to kayak, this scenic and easy paddle is a short mile and half to Lake Pontchartrain where stellar sunsets delight and an occasional family of river otters appear for a joyful frolic. Both the Boy Scout Interpretive Trail and Fontainebleau are amazing spring locations to enjoy blooming native Louisiana irises.
Fontainebleau State Park contains 2,800 acres of beautiful, scenic, nature-loving nirvana. Find the remains of an 1829 sugar mill along with miles of hiking and biking trails that intermingle with the Tammany Trace. Wildlife abounds with numerous birds and frequent deer crossing your path. Check out VisitTheNorthshore.com/events for educational programs taking place at the park, including guided hikes with foraging instruction, seminars with park rangers, botanists and more.
Just a short distance further is the fabulous Fairview-Riverside State Park on the stunningly scenic waterway of the Tchefuncte River in Madisonville. Sitting on 99 rambling acres, this waterfront park offers gorgeous campsites, fabulous fishing, bountiful boating and wonderful moss-draped oak trees. The park is perfect for a picnic, scenic walks and family photos.
To plan your outdoor adventure, head over to and get into nature.
