The best cycling routes in Louisiana

Louisiana offers a diverse selection of over 60 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various preferences, with a significant number, around 48, classified as easy, and 15 as moderate, ensuring options for different skill levels.

Louisiana's touring cycling routes feature a variety of landscapes. You'll find extensive networks of bayous, swamps, and wetlands, particularly in areas like the Atchafalaya Basin. The iconic Mississippi River provides flat, paved levee trails with expansive views. Beyond the wetlands, the state also offers pine forests and rolling hills, especially in central and northern regions like Kisatchie National Forest. Many routes, particularly along the Mississippi River, are notably flat.

Louisiana benefits from warm weather for much of the year, extending the cycling season. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring, avoiding the peak heat and humidity of summer while still enjoying comfortable conditions.

Yes, Louisiana has many touring cycling routes suitable for beginners and families. A large portion of the routes, about 48, are classified as easy. For instance, the Capitol Lake to University Lake loop is an easy 10.8-mile ride offering urban lake views on flat terrain, perfect for a relaxed outing.

Yes, many routes in Louisiana are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the popular Capitol Lake to University Lake loop, the Big Lake City Park – Bayou St. John loop from New Orleans, and the Audubon Park – Audubon Park loop from Kenner.

Louisiana's unique geography means you can encounter diverse natural features. Expect to see extensive bayous, swamps, and wetlands, especially in areas like the Atchafalaya Basin. The mighty Mississippi River is a constant presence along many routes, with its levee trails offering expansive views. You might also cycle through pine forests and past lakes such as Big Lake City Park, or explore protected areas like Couturie Forest and Sabine National Wildlife Refuge.

Yes, Louisiana's rich history is evident along many cycling routes. You can encounter historic sites like Oak Alley Plantation, explore the unique architecture of the French Quarter in New Orleans, or visit landmarks such as Steamboat Natchez, St. Louis Cathedral, and Jackson Square. The Mississippi River Trail, for example, passes many such sites.

Louisiana's wetlands and forests are teeming with wildlife. Routes through areas like the Atchafalaya Basin, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, the Creole Nature Trail, and Cypremort Point State Park offer excellent chances to spot diverse bird species, alligators, and other marshland creatures. The Sabine National Wildlife Refuge is also a prime location for wildlife viewing.

The touring cycling routes in Louisiana are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique scenery of the bayous and the expansive views along the Mississippi River levees. The flat terrain and the variety of easy to moderate routes are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.

New Orleans is a great base for touring cyclists, with several routes nearby. The Big Lake City Park – Bayou St. John loop from New Orleans is a popular choice, offering urban parks and bayou scenery. Other options include the Steamboat Natchez – Washington Artillery Park loop from New Orleans and the Bayou Metairie – New Orleans City Park loop from West End.

While many outdoor areas in Louisiana are dog-friendly, specific rules for cycling routes can vary. It's always best to check the regulations of individual parks or trails, such as state parks or national forests, regarding pets on trails. Generally, dogs on a leash are permitted in many public outdoor spaces, but some dedicated cycling paths might have restrictions.

Yes, parking is generally available near many touring cycling routes, especially at trailheads, state parks, and urban green spaces. For routes like the Tammany Trace – Mandeville Lakefront loop from Covington, designated parking areas are common in the towns connected by the trail. In cities like New Orleans, you'll find parking options near popular starting points for urban loops.