Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Alligators abound in the swamps of Jean Lafitte Barataria Preserve.
Photo: Donna Goldenberg
•
At the half-mile point, you'll enter the Marsh Overlook Trail, which is situ-
ated atop a bank that was formed by dredged material from the Kenta
Canal. Once used for irrigating and draining plantation fields, the canal was
deepened and widened in the late 19th century so loggers could gain access to
the bald-cypress swamp.
•
Walk to Stop 7, where you'll learn that the grassland in the distance is actu-
ally a freshwater marsh that is not connected to the soil but is rather a float-
ing mat of plants called a flotant. The marsh rises and falls with the water
beneath it and is especially affected by wind direction and rainfall. Among
the wildlife that call the flotant home are rabbits, alligators, raccoons, nutria,
coyotes, whitetail deer, and many species of birds.
•
Turn around at the end of the Marsh Outlook Trail and make your way back
to the beginning of the Bayou Coquille Trail. If you're up to it, check out
some of the park's other trails, or save them for your next visit.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Barataria Preserve, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park
nps.gov/jela/barataria-pre-
ROUTE SUMMARY
1.
Begin at entrance of Bayou Coquille Trail.
2.
Walk a half-mile to Marsh Overlook Trail.
3.
Walk another 0.4 mile to end of trail.
4.
Turn around and return to starting point.
