The Magnificent Natural Wonder In Louisiana That's Located Only .25 Miles From The Parking Lot
By Jackie Ann|Published July 12, 2024
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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.
The Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve is one of those hidden gems you just can’t wait to explore. Located in Abita Springs, this nature preserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beautiful pine flatwood wetlands of southeast Louisiana. Let’s explore this short trail in Louisiana:
You’ll find the Abita Creek Flatwoods Preserve just off LA 435 in Abita Springs.
The preserve is open seven days a week during daylight hours. There is a parking lot right next to the trailhead, which makes it very easy to explore. The trail is less than a mile long, but don't let its length fool you! There's a lot packed into this tiny trail.
The preserve is one of many places that The Nature Conservancy protects.
The Conservancy restores and protects many natural areas not just in Louisiana, but all around the world. Cypress Island, Grand Isle, and the Mary Ann Brown Preserve are just a few of the natural areas in Louisiana that are under their supervision.
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The area offers some of the best examples of longleaf pine savannas, slash pine-pond cypress woodlands, and bayhead swamps in the state.
This unique natural area is also home to some rare wildlife! Keep your eyes peeled for Bachman’s sparrow and Henslow’s sparrow while you’re strolling along the trail.
Even though you’re surrounded by towering pines, the trail is not completely shaded. We’d recommend bringing a hat and some bug spray. Those skeeters are no joke!
There are nearly 30 rare plants that have been identified in the area.
Pitcher plants (pictured above) aren’t that rare in Louisiana, but you also don’t see them very often. These carnivorous plants have pitfall traps that they use to lure their prey into their cavities and then drown the prey with their nectar.
If you’ve ever hiked this short trail in Louisiana, share your experience with us in the comments below. Be sure to check out our ultimate hiking packing list before you go. Visit the Nature Conservancy website to learn more. While you’re in the area, pair your outdoor adventure with a stroll through Abita Springs. This charming small town in Louisiana has a unique history.
