Looking for a mesmerizing set of trails to explore while the weather is ideal for outdoor excursions? Located within Chicot State Park, the Louisiana State Arboretum features 600 acres of picture-perfect scenery to enjoy, and the trails are great for all skill levels. Let’s check it out.
Nature lovers have long flocked to the Louisiana State Arboretum to enjoy the natural settings surrounding this natural paradise.
Jerry Lathem/Google Established in 1961, the Arboretum is the only state-supported arboretum in the country, and the initial efforts for the arboretum to come to fruition were primarily led by Caroline Dormon, a Louisiana native that dedicated her life to our state’s natural surroundings.
With over 600 acres to explore, you could easily spend the entire day checking out the sights.
Tam G./All Trails And that’s not even counting Chicot State Park, which features even more trails and activities!
There are several trails at the Arboretum.
Tam G./All Trails All of them are under five miles, so you can mix and match to fit your schedule.
The Arboretum is home to over 150 different plant species that are native to Louisiana.
Louisiana State Arboretum/Facebook The trails will lead you through the Beech-Magnolia forest, surrounding you with the enchanting emeralds of giant beech trees, magnolias, oaks, maples, and more. Keep an eye out for wildflowers along the way. Those Louisiana Irises always add a beautiful pop of purple!
The views of the lake are mesmerizing.
Louisiana State Arboretum/Facebook There are plenty of benches peppered along the trails, which are great for wildlife viewing or just soaking up the scenery.
When you’re surrounded by views like this, nothing else matters.
Marty McmaNN/Google Those cypress knees and those beautiful shades of green are just so peaceful.
The Arboretum is open Wednesday - Sunday from dawn until dusk.
Patrick Landry/Google
You may end up loving it so much that you’d like to extend your stay! Chicot State Park offers several camping options, including some truly stunning waterfront cabins.
Jerry Lathem/Google
Established in 1961, the Arboretum is the only state-supported arboretum in the country, and the initial efforts for the arboretum to come to fruition were primarily led by Caroline Dormon, a Louisiana native that dedicated her life to our state’s natural surroundings.
Tam G./All Trails
And that’s not even counting Chicot State Park, which features even more trails and activities!
All of them are under five miles, so you can mix and match to fit your schedule.
Louisiana State Arboretum/Facebook
The trails will lead you through the Beech-Magnolia forest, surrounding you with the enchanting emeralds of giant beech trees, magnolias, oaks, maples, and more. Keep an eye out for wildflowers along the way. Those Louisiana Irises always add a beautiful pop of purple!
There are plenty of benches peppered along the trails, which are great for wildlife viewing or just soaking up the scenery.
Marty McmaNN/Google
Those cypress knees and those beautiful shades of green are just so peaceful.
Patrick Landry/Google
For more information, be sure to check out their website and give them a follow on Facebook.
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Address: Louisiana State Arboretum State Preservation Area, 1300 Sudie Lawton Lane, Ville Platte, LA 70586, USA
