Bogue Chitto State Park is the most popular state park in Louisiana on AllTrails, and it’s not hard for me to see why. Despite being located just a stone’s throw from New Orleans, this lush, sprawling oasis feels like an entirely different world. It’s a place that offers boundless adventure and an overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility, and there are many different hiking trails to embark on. Today, we’re diving into the Bogue Chitto River Trail, which is short, easy, and absolutely breathtaking.

Perfect for all skill levels, the Bogue Chitto River Trail is a 2.2-mile loop that meanders through a forested area on its way to the Bogue Chitto River. The trail is basically flat, so think of it as more of a leisurely stroll than a true hike; it’s ideal for those times when you aren’t necessarily in the mood for a workout but still want to enjoy the outdoors. It isn’t the most popular trail in the park (not that it doesn’t deserve the title!), which is actually a major selling point for me because it means fewer crowds can be expected.

As you make your way through the lush greenery, keep your ears open for the sounds of nature. Between the birds chirping and leaves rustling, you’ll think you’ve entered a fairytale. It gets even better as you approach the river. A wave of calmness will wash over you when you hear the water gently babbling along like a meditative soundtrack. This is also a great trail for those wishing to take a trip down the river, whether in a boat/canoe/kayak or, during the warmer months, an inner tube. There’s an access point roughly midway along the trail, so you can hop in for a relaxing excursion.

Visit our friends at AllTrails for more information about the Bogue Chitto River Trail. I also recommend signing up for AllTrails+ if you’re interested in perks like offline map access (you never know when you might lose cell service on a hike, so it really does come in handy!).

Have you ever hiked the Bogue Chitto River Trail? What’s your favorite state park in Louisiana? Tell us in the comments, and check out our previous article for the best things to do in nearby New Orleans. You may not have even known about some of the incredible attractions hiding in the Crescent City!