Since Louisiana’s terrain is mostly flat, our hiking trails are generally pretty easy. Even the hiking trail to the top of Driskill Mountain is easy enough that the youngest of nature lovers can tackle it with ease. This particular hiking trail has some incredibly scenic views, but don’t let that fool you, it’s actually an easy hike.
The Backbone Trail is one of the best hiking trails within the Kisatchie National Forest.
Tam G./All Trails
The out-and-back trail is about eight miles one way, and usually takes about three or four hours to complete.
Chris Rockwood/All Trails
Many people use Longleaf Vista Road to make a loop.
Wilson Wang/All Trails This will add about three miles to your hike. Otherwise, you’ll need to turn and hike the trail again once you reach the end, which will put you at around 14 miles.
Whether you’re on a solo hike or a group outing, the Backbone Trail is perfect for anyone looking to challenge themselves with a longer hike.
Shara Gremilion/All Trails Outside of the Kisatche National Forest, you’ll have a hard time finding trails that are longer than five miles, but the forest is full of them.
As you make your way through the longleaf pines, keep your eye out for wildlife along the way.
Gannon Brimer/All Trails Depending on the time of year, wildflowers may pepper the path. Wild azaleas are abundant in the area and are one of the most striking flowers you’ll see.
The terrain can be a bit challenging at times, but we promise, it’s not too bad.
Robert Andrews/All Trails This is Louisiana, after all. You’ll definitely encounter some elevation and rocky terrain, but it’s easily traversable. If you hike the trail after a rainfall, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your good hiking boots on because it can get slippery.
The trail has some stunning treetop views that you don’t come across on your average trail in Louisiana.
Scotty Quebedeaux/All Trails
You’re welcome to pitch a tent and camp along the trail.
Ryan A./All Trails
Imagine waking up to this view!
Jean-Luc Guilbeaux/All Trails
Be sure to visit the Kisatchie National Forest’s website to learn more about camping guidelines, trail maps, and more. Once you hike the Backbone Trail, you’ll want to explore all of the forest trails in Louisiana.
Tam G./All Trails
Chris Rockwood/All Trails
Wilson Wang/All Trails
This will add about three miles to your hike. Otherwise, you’ll need to turn and hike the trail again once you reach the end, which will put you at around 14 miles.
Shara Gremilion/All Trails
Outside of the Kisatche National Forest, you’ll have a hard time finding trails that are longer than five miles, but the forest is full of them.
Gannon Brimer/All Trails
Depending on the time of year, wildflowers may pepper the path. Wild azaleas are abundant in the area and are one of the most striking flowers you’ll see.
Robert Andrews/All Trails
This is Louisiana, after all. You’ll definitely encounter some elevation and rocky terrain, but it’s easily traversable. If you hike the trail after a rainfall, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your good hiking boots on because it can get slippery.
Scotty Quebedeaux/All Trails
Ryan A./All Trails
Jean-Luc Guilbeaux/All Trails
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Address: Backbone Trail, Montrose Rd, Natchitoches, LA 71457, USA
