Wetland Trace

Come visit one of the state’s best boardwalk trails, where you can hike deep into the moss covered cypress and into a world apart.

Behind Lafitte’s Barataria Museum lies the Wetland Trace, a boardwalk trail through a cypress swamp leading to a bayou, rookery and marsh area. Part of a 41- acre nature preserve, the mysterious terrain is home to swamp wildlife. Trails include covered pavilions, benches and scenic overlooks. The boardwalk gives visitors excellent access to wildlife, including alligators, snakes, spiders, turtles and birds. Near the end of the boardwalk lies an egret rookery, tucked away high in the swaying cypress moss. This is also a great place for viewing Louisiana flora, such as the native Louisiana Iris, water lilies and orchids.

”In every walk with nature one receives

far more than he seeks.” -John Muir

The above photos were taken by noted photographer Henry Cancienne, who generously allowed us permission to use them on our website. Many of these photographs are featuring in his book, LOUISIANA SWAMPS AND MARSHES: Easy-Access Hikes and Drives. Henry Cancienne has a passion for preserving our unique natural environments through his spectacular images, and in this book he shares some of his favorite walking trails and drives, most free and easily accessible via raised boardwalks and well-maintained paths. One of his personal favorites is our very own Jean Lafitte Wetland Trace. You just might see him our there taking photographs today!