Itching to hit the trails? The Louisiana State Arboretum is a great place to spend the day exploring the labyrinth of trails, and they’re great for a solo excursion or a family outing. Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing all the beautiful wildlife, pretty flowers, and endless emerald lagoons. Grab your gear and maybe some bug spray, because these trails are going to blow you away with their beauty.

Established in 1961, the Louisiana State Arboretum is the oldest state-supported arboretum in the nation.
Patrick Landry/Google
And it wouldn’t exist without Caroline Dormon, a naturalist and conservationist (among many other things) who was instrumental in establishing the arboretum.
She wanted to create a state arboretum to educate Louisianians about the importance of trees, plants, and flowers in Louisiana.
Tam G./All Trails
As well as preserve them for years to come.
There are over six miles of hiking trails throughout the 600 acres to explore.
Friends of the Louisiana State Arboretum Website
And all of the trails are right around a mile long, so you can mix and match to fit your schedule.
Along the way, you’ll be met with some truly astonishing views.
Louisiana State Arboretum/Facebook
Nothing says Louisiana more than the endless views of cypress trees set in the swamp.

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Beautiful wildflowers, towering cypress trees, and the sounds of songbirds will become your soundtrack as you wander through the arboretum.
Louisiana State Arboretum/Facebook
And there are several interpretive signs along the way, a great educational opportunity for the little ones!
Depending on the time of year you visit you could see several different flowers in bloom.
Louisiana State Arboretum/Facebook
Wild azalea, Louisiana iris, and coral honeysuckle are just a few of the beauties you may encounter along the trails.
And the swamp and marsh views? Mesmerizing!
Marty McMann/Google
Just an emerald oasis waiting to be explored.
You could easily find yourself coming back again and again to see how the arboretum changes with the seasons.
Clint L./Google
Because no matter what time of year you visit, it's going to be beautiful.

For more information, be sure to check out its Facebook page and also the Friends of the Louisiana State Arboretum, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving this incredible natural oasis for many, many years to come.

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Featured Addresses
Louisiana State Arboretum State Preservation Area, 1300 Sudie Lawton Lane, Ville Platte, LA 70586, USA