outDoors & PArks COUTURIE FOREST Located within New orleans City Park , the Couturie Forest offers 60 acres of native trees, scenic waterways, and diverse wildlife. It’s recognized as a top bird-watching destination in the city and, best of all, you can visit for free! The forest is made up of eight distinct ecosystems and is home to New Orleans’ highest point of elevation, Laborde Mountain, a “daunting” 27 feet above sea level! BAYOU ST. JOHN Also located within New Orleans, Bayou st. John is lesser known than the mighty Mississippi River. Running through the Mid-City neighborhood, many take to the bayou for kayaking and paddleboarding. It’s a lovely picnic spot and home to festivals throughout the year, including Greek Fest and Praise Fest . You can jog or bike along the pedestrian path that runs along Wisner Boulevard. BAYOU ST. JOHN ©Zack Smith FONTAINEBLEAU STATE PARK Located about 40 miles from downtown New Orleans, Fontainebleau state Park makes for a great day trip. The park is situated on more than 2,800 acres along the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain . Many like to camp, bike, hike, and kayak throughout the grounds, and the park is also home to a beach that is open year-round. To get to the park, you’ll most likely cross the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the world’s longest continuous bridge over water, which requires a small toll when returning to New Orleans. You’ll also need a bit of cash for admission to the park. Scan Here for Hiking! FONTAINEBLEAU STATE PARK ©Instagram/bylivingphoto NEWorLEANs.CoM 33
New Orleans Official Visitors Guide 2026 Summer/Fall: Page 33
