Spot Wildflowers, Birds, And More Along This Picture-Perfect Nature Trail In Louisiana
By Jackie Ann|Published April 19, 2023
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
St. Tammany Parish has a wide range of nature trails and state parks. Of course, the Tammany Trace is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area, weaving its way through five different towns, but there’s one scenic trail in Mandeville, Louisiana that’s perfect for a short and sweet afternoon adventure, and this picturesque area is great for introducing the youngest of nature lovers to Louisiana’s natural scenery.
You’ll find the Northlake Nature Center in Mandeville, Louisiana, just down the road from Fontainebleau State Park.
Even though the water looks murky and brown, it’s surprisingly clear and you can spend hours just watching the fish and turtles swim around. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may even spot an alligator or two soaking up some sun.
The area is a bird watcher’s paradise, so be sure to look up along the way.
Northlake Nature Center is host to the annual BirdFest, where locals come to enjoy bird watching around the area. On a typical day, you stand a decent chance at seeing some of the wading birds like egrets, herons, and maybe even an anhinga, and if you check the treetops, you might spot an owl or even a hawk watching over you!
As you’re surrounded by enchanting emeralds, take some time to admire all of the wildflowers.