Jean Lafitte Park Roads
Quiet park roads and bayou‑side routes near the Barataria Preserve unit of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve — with boardwalk access on foot.
Overview
Jean Lafitte's Barataria Preserve unit is famous for its boardwalks through cypress‑tupelo swamp. Those boardwalks are for foot traffic only — but the park roads and surrounding bayou routes make a fantastic low‑traffic e-bike cruise when you respect park rules.
Most of your riding will be on paved parish roads, park entrance roads, and nearby bayou‑side routes. Think slow‑roll exploring with lots of opportunities to park the bike and walk the boardwalks.
Sample Ride Plan
- • Park near the Barataria Preserve visitor center.
- • Ride park roads and nearby parish roads as an out‑and‑back loop (8–15 miles).
- • Lock your bike at trailheads and walk the boardwalks and marsh trails.
- • Extend your ride on quiet bayou‑side roads if traffic and conditions feel safe.
Exact mileage will depend on how far you explore. This is a "slow down and look around" ride, not a speed test.
Park Rules & E-Bikes
Expect bikes and e-bikes to be limited to roads and parking areas. Boardwalks and narrow hiking trails are typically foot‑only.
Obey posted speed limits and be extra courteous near the visitor center, boardwalk trailheads, and parking lots.
National park regulations can be strict about where bikes and e-bikes are allowed. Check the Jean Lafitte website or ask a ranger before exploring side roads.
Visitor Info
Start at the Barataria Preserve visitor center for maps, current conditions, and to confirm where bikes are allowed the day you visit.
Official Barataria Preserve PageView on Google MapsRecommended Bikes
Pro Tips
- •Bring a compact lock so you can safely leave your e-bike while you walk the boardwalks.
- •Bug spray is mandatory in warm months — this is real south Louisiana swamp.
- •Keep noise low and eyes open; this is a great place to spot gators and bird life.