The weather is perfect for getting outside and exploring some trails. You’ll find this Nature Center just a short drive from New Orleans, in Mandeville. You’ll love how picturesque this area is so much, it just may become your new favorite hiking spot.

The Northlake Nature Center is located near Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville.

Tricia W./Yelp It’s also adjacent to the Pelican Park Sports Complex and the Tammany Trace.

The 400-acre center offers visitors the opportunity to experience three different ecosystems: hardwood forests, pinewood-hardwood forests, and cypress pond-swamps.

Sean Hurly/All Trails It’s your standard triple threat for Louisiana landscapes.

There are over eight miles of hiking and biking trails filled with scenic overlooks.

Noah Bordeu/All Trails They all range in length so you can mix and match depending on how much time you have.

The views of Bayou Castine, Beaver Pond, and Savanna Lake are simply breathtaking.

Sean Hurly/All Trails There’s also a canoe launch that gives you access to Bayou Castine, in case you want to take your exploration to the waterways.

The trails are well marked, and the raised boardwalk trails offer phenomenal views of the natural landscape.

Sean Hurly/All Trails You’ll see tons of turtles, birds, and other wildlife. Remember to bring your camera!

The Nature Center offers several programs and events that you can participate in—perfect for both kids and adults.

Lay D./Yelp The Northlake Nature Center is located at 23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448.

Here’s a trail map.

northlakenature.org There’s ample parking, and the center is open from dawn until dusk.

Have you ever been? Let us know in the comments below!

Tricia W./Yelp

It’s also adjacent to the Pelican Park Sports Complex and the Tammany Trace.

Sean Hurly/All Trails

It’s your standard triple threat for Louisiana landscapes.

Noah Bordeu/All Trails

They all range in length so you can mix and match depending on how much time you have.

There’s also a canoe launch that gives you access to Bayou Castine, in case you want to take your exploration to the waterways.

You’ll see tons of turtles, birds, and other wildlife. Remember to bring your camera!

Lay D./Yelp

The Northlake Nature Center is located at 23135 Highway 190, Mandeville, Louisiana 70448.

northlakenature.org

There’s ample parking, and the center is open from dawn until dusk.

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