The Outdoors are Calling on The Northshore
There’s not much better than time spent on The Northshore during the fall. The area’s natural topography is as unique as it is beautiful, and it’s only amplified during autumn. From the 80,000 acres of wildlife preserves to Lake Pontchartrain to the many trails and state parks, The Northshore is calling visitors to get outdoors and into nature.
Hike
Hiking is an ever-popular autumn activity, and the variety of beautiful destinations for hiking on The Northshore are plentiful. Fontainebleau State Park offers 2,800 pristine acres complete with moss-draped oaks and Lake Pontchartrain views. Included amongst the on-site campsites are nature trails and the Tammany Trace, an old railroad track that has been converted into a paved path as part of the Rails to Trail program.
Situated on the Tchefuncte River is Fairview-Riverside State Park. The Park makes for an easy way to spend the day hiking, where it’s also easy to spot all sorts of wildlife. Other outdoor activities such as fishing and canoeing can be enjoyed in this hidden gem too.
Beyond the state parks, The Northshore is home to the Northlake Nature Center. Situated on 400 acres, the nature preserve is a unique mix of three different ecosystems, hardwood forest, pine-hardwood forest, and pond-swamp. Thanks to its boardwalks, visitors can hike through the Center and experience the very best of Louisiana.
Horseback riding
For a more unique experience, explore The Northshore on horseback. If traveling with a horse, portions of Tammany Trace have available trails that follow the nearby paved path. In neighboring Washington Parish, Bogue Chitto State Park is another sought-after spot for horseback riding with 14 miles of equestrian trails. The 1,786-acre site offers a beautiful backdrop for a ride with streams, cypress tupelo swamps, a hardwood forest, and rolling hills.
Splendor Farms is a premier horseback riding facility on The Northshore. The family-friendly destination offers trails for riding, along with riding lessons for those new to the sport. While on the farm, visitors can also check out its many farm animals, go fishing, and even hiking.
Dine out
Part of the pleasure of being outdoors on The Northshore includes its atmosphere for dining al fresco, many of which house pet-friendly patios to also accommodate four-legged friends. Enjoy a brew at Barley Oak: Old World Draught Haus, a biergarten in Mandeville that offers more than 150 different types of beer and German-inspired fare. In downtown Covington, there’s Covington Beer Garden. Located in the heart of downtown, the eatery offers pub fare that can be enjoyed with a local beer or craft cocktail. One of the area’s most popular local beers is Abita Beer, which can also be enjoyed at Abita Brew Pub. The pub offers a range of American and Cajun dishes, along with Abita beer and practically any other bar offering with a laid back atmosphere and live music most weekends.
Ready to plan your Easy Escape to The Northshore? Learn more at https://www.visitthenorthshore.com.