Hiking in Louisiana doesn’t have to be bayou boardwalks and swamp trails, although we do love them. You may be surprised to learn that there are hundreds of primitive trails within the Kisatchie National Forest, and these trails are a far departure from the low-lying wetland trails you’re used to. These trails will take you on quite the journey through some of the most underrated terrains in the Pelican State. One trail, in particular, will have you feeling like you’re on top of the world and that’s the Longleaf Vista Nature Trail.

The Kisatchie National Forest covers more than 600,000 acres of central and northern Louisiana.
Laura/Google
The rolling hills and leafy pines are just mesmerizing. Just the drive to the trail will amaze you.
The loop trail is about 1.5 miles, and easy enough that even the youngest of nature lovers can tackle the trail with no problems.
Carl Sonnier/All Trails
Just keep in mind that these are primitive trails and you'll encounter a staircase, so maybe leave the stroller in the car.
As you make your way through the forest, you'll have a symphony of sounds to score your hike.
Harry Burdette/All Trails
Babbling brooks and songbirds add to the overall beauty of this trail, that's for sure.

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It's a pretty remote part of Louisiana, so you may have the trail all to yourself!
Shara Gremillion/All Trails
You don't often encounter much elevation when hiking in Louisiana, but this trail is one of the rare exceptions.
D F/Google
When you reach the end of the hike (or the beginning, since it's a loop trail) you'll have a dazzling 360-degree view of the Kisatchie Hills.
Ernest Daniels/Google
Take it in! These bird's eye views are one in a million.
Ernest Daniels/Google
You can even pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on one of the nearby tables.

Have you ever hiked the Longleaf Vista Nature Trail? Let us know in the comments! And while you’re in the area, you may want to explore some of the other hiking trails in the Kisatchie.

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Longleaf Vista Nature Trail, Unnamed Road, Natchitoches, LA 71457, USA