New Orleans hasn't always been known for its hiking opportunities--but there are truly some unique treasures within an hour drive of the city. We've found 9 of the most epic hiking spots around New Orleans and we're sure you're going to love them! There's a huge variety of options around the city--from nearby places to go hiking in New Orleans to unique adventures over the swamps and marshes. Check them out!

1) Jean Lafitte National Park

The only National Park in the New Orleans area, the Barataria Preserve has a number of beautiful trails including covered boardwalks and amazing wildlife. Go to 6588 Barataria Blvd, Marrero, and visit nps.gov/jela for more info.

2) Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge

The largest urban wildlife refuge in the country, the 23,000 acres refuge offers a huge variety of recreational opportunities. The Ridge Trail Boardwalk and the Maxent Levee Trail are a great choice for a short hike. There is also a boat launch off Hwy 11, take I-10 West from Slidell and take exit 254, Irish Bayou, to Hwy 11.

3) Northlake Nature Center

A newer nature center in the area, Northlake offers a variety of hands-on activities and trails that are great for a day of enjoying nature. FInd the entrance right across the street from Fontainebleau State Park off of Hwy 190 in Mandeville.

4) Tammany Trace

Originally a railroad corridor, Tammany Trace offers 31 miles of trails for bikes and hikers alike throughout the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain. The Abita Springs trailhead can be found at 22049 Main St., Abita Springs, but there are many others throughout the trail.

5) Fontainebleau State Park

The closest state park to New Orleans, Fontainebleau State Park has a few short hiking trails as well as incredible views of Lake Pontchartrain. Definitely worth an afternoon trip. Find it at 62883 Hwy. 1089 on Mandeville, LA.

6) Big Branch National Wildlife Refuge

Another huge wildlife refuge just outside of the city, Big Branch includes a variety of fishing and boating opportunities, as well as hiking. Find their visitor center in Lacombe, LA, at 61389 Hwy 434. It also serves as a center for the Bayou Sauvage NWR.

7) The Crosby Arboretum

While technically in Mississippi, this beautiful park and recreation area is an amazing place to enjoy the trees and other wildlife. Found in Picayune, MS, at 370 Ridge Road.

8) Joyce Wildlife Management Area

Visit this amazing swampland area which offers a boardwalk hiking path perfect for a short day hike. To find it, take exit 22 on Interstate 55 southbound and crossing US 51, or from US 51 northbound from Manchac, just before merging back onto Interstate 55 northbound.

9) Couterie Forest City Park

A short but winding trail found within City Park, although the golf course took a chunk out of the area, there is still plenty of nature to enjoy. Find the entrance just past the Harrison Ave roundabout in City Park.

What do you think of these epic hiking spots around New Orleans? Have you visited any of them? We tried to find the best places to go hiking in New Orleans so that you can have some awesome adventures! Let us know how your hikes go, we love to hear your feedback!