Tammany Trace: The Flavor of Biking in Louisiana

Tammany Trace: The Flavor of Biking in Louisiana

Distance: 30 miles

Route Map

The Tammany Trace runs 30 miles through St. Tammany Parish, connecting the towns of Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe, and Slidell along a converted railroad line. The route offers a smooth, shaded ride through pine forests, wetlands, and small communities that feel relaxed and distinctly Louisiana. A long, uninterrupted path with character and local flavor, this is one of the state’s most enjoyable regional trails.

From Abita Springs to the Lakefront

Beginning in Covington, the St. Tammany trail rolls southeast through wooded corridors and quiet neighborhoods before reaching Abita Springs, one of the area’s most charming small towns. You can also choose to leave from Abita Springs, parking near the Abita Brew Pub that is adjacent to the trail. From there, the trail continues toward Mandeville, crossing the Bogue Falaya and Abita Rivers on low bridges shaded by cypress trees.

The scenery opens up as you approach Lake Pontchartrain, where Mandeville’s lakefront provides open views, picnic spots, and cafes. Many riders choose to take a short break here to enjoy the breeze or grab lunch before continuing east. The next leg passes near Fontainebleau State Park, a worthwhile stop on its own, and a great place to stay if you’re camping. The park’s trails and lakeside ruins add an extra dimension to the journey — a mix of nature, history, and old-South atmosphere just steps from the Trace.

From Lacombe to Slidell, the surroundings grow quiet, with stretches of pine forest and small bridges over bayous. Wildlife sightings are common; you may see egrets, turtles, and the occasional alligator in the distance. The flat terrain makes progress steady, and wayfinding is simple thanks to clear trail markers and dedicated crossings at most intersections.

Biking in Louisiana can bring the heat

The Trace is fully paved and generally well maintained, with frequent rest stops, water fountains, and small parking areas at each town. Riders appreciate how the trail integrates with local communities, offering easy access to food, lodging, and points of interest. However, first-time visitors may find that some access points lack clear signage, and it’s worth checking a map before setting out to avoid confusion about where parking or services are located.

The experience changes depending on where you ride. Near Abita Springs and Mandeville, the trail passes through lively town centers; farther east, it edges close to residential areas and occasionally parallels busy roads. The mix of scenery — part nature, part suburb — means the trail doesn’t always feel remote, but it makes logistics easy. Louisiana’s summer heat and humidity can be intense, so morning or cooler-season rides are best. After heavy rain, side paths and grassy shoulders may stay soggy, though the main trail surface drains well.

Despite those minor drawbacks, the Tammany Trace offers a balanced combination of accessibility and local charm. Whether you ride a few miles between cafés or cover the full stretch, you’ll find a smooth, scenic way to explore the Northshore. And when the ride is done, the Abita Brew Pub is a great spot to unwind at an outdoor table.

Make your cooldown count. A pile of mudbugs and this crawfish shirt!

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