Ride the Tammany Trace

This is, in our estimation, one in a list of thirty marvelous places, flavors, events, and experiences that anyone who lives in—or loves—our part of the world should experience at least once in his or her lifetime.

The trains that once ran here are long gone. But in their place, St. Tammany Parish’s Rails to Trails system makes hearty good use of the old railroad right-of-ways, providing a safe, scenic cycling path that puts some of the Northshore’s most picturesque communities within easy reach of cyclists of all levels. Today, twenty-eight miles of dedicated, paved trails connect five historic communities—Slidell, Lacombe, Mandeville, Abita Springs, and Covington—directing cyclists past parks, rivers, bayous, and over thirty-one railroad bridges. Trailheads along the way serve as playgrounds, community gathering areas, and concert venues; bike rental is available at the Mandeville Trailhead. In Abita Springs, just try to pass by the Abita Brew Pub without stopping for tasty refreshments. (985) 867-9490 or tammanytrace.org.