BAYOU STATE TRAIL ASSOCIATION

Established 2021

OUR HISTORY

For years the hikers of Louisiana have longed for a long-distance trail in their home state, and although there are several beautiful trails scattered through Louisiana, there have not been any viable options to hike a singular trail for several days to weeks at a time. Therefore, a group of citizens including active hikers, local non-profit organizations, and elected officials across the state gathered to develop a potential trail that would address these issues by forming the Bayou State Trail Association on November 13, 2021.

This organization will not only be dedicated to the development and maintenance of the Bayou State Trail, but to also provide development, support, and assistance for future and existing trail systems.

The Bayou State Trail Association

Our Mission:

The Bayou State Trail Association is a dedicated group of Louisiana citizens pushing for the development, maintenance, and promotion of hiking trails across the state. With the Bayou State Trail as its centerpiece, we hope to create a network of interconnected pathways for hikers and bikers, from the hills of Kisatchie to the swamps of the Atchafalaya and everywhere in between.

Why Louisiana Needs the Bayou State Trail:

The Bayou State Trail system will provide Louisianans greater access to outdoor recreation and the natural beauty our state has to offer. As a tourism destination, the B.S.T. and its affiliate trails will generate revenue for parks, museums, and local businesses. Increased usage of hiking trails will encourage our state to prioritize preservation and conservation of nature. Hiking and biking along the B.S.T. system will promote exercise and healthy lifestyles among Louisiana's population. Collaboration with local and state organizations for volunteering and support will strengthen our sense of community and get more people outside.

History:

Before the Bayou State Trail was established, Louisiana was one of three states in the U.S. without a long-distance hiking trail. Just a couple years ago, our farthest continuous footpath was only 26 miles. For decades, those of us looking for a longer adventure have been forced to travel elsewhere. Our state has incredible parks and natural areas, but there had been no concentrated effort to connect them.

The Bayou State Trail Association is here to change that. On November 13th, 2021 a group of Louisiana hikers, local organizations, and elected officials from across the state gathered to discuss what it would take to make this dream a reality, and the B.S.T.A. was born. For the past three years, we have been engaging with stakeholders from every corner of Louisiana and raising awareness. We've received support from dozens of state leaders and civic organizations, as well as hundreds of Louisiana residents. This positive engagement has allowed us to finally establish the Bayou State Trail.

On August 28, 2024, we were proud to unveil a 500 mile trail that can be walked from Ivan Lake Recreation Area, north of Shreveport, to Morgan City. We will continue working to promote hiking trails and outdoor recreation in Louisiana, but we can't do this without your support.

Get Involved

If you want to get involved with the B.S.T.A. at the ground level, let us know! Follow us on social media or reach out to us directly with comments, questions, or suggestions. If you'd like to volunteer or donate to the Association, send us an email. We welcome any and all support in our effort to improve and promote the Bayou State Trail!