As summer slowly begins to give way to fall, everyone wants to be outside, including the animals along the Cajun Coast. Alligator spotting becomes more frequent on swamp tours and birds traveling along our flyway to warmer climates fill the skies and skim along the water’s edge.
People long to be skimming along the water as well. September begins and ends with kayak and canoe events; check out Tour du Teche specifics for the Lower Atchafalaya River Sprint and 410 de Louisiane. But you don’t need an event to set out into peaceful waters along the Atchafalaya Basin and many offshoots leading out into the Gulf waters. In fact, we have created paddling trails to make it as easy as possible to explore our unique waterways.
There are multiple paddling trails along the Cajun Coast, marked for the novice to more experienced paddler. And even if you haven’t traveled with your canoe, there are nearby outfitters that can supply you for the excursion. Check our Paddling Trails site for more information.
Bayou Teche Paddling Trail – Begins in Jeanerette and ends near Calumet. Six boat docks are located along the trail which travels the slow-moving waters of Bayou Teche.
Bayou Teche/Lower Atchafalaya Paddling Trail – begins at the Calumet Cut and takes you through Patterson to the mouth of the Bayou Teche at the Atchafalaya River. Bayou Teche National Wildlife Paddling Trail – the refuge’s waterways set aside for paddling offer a unique area of tranquility for wildlife and visitors alike.
Franklin Paddling Trails – There is a loop tour and linear tour, both are for beginners. There are several boat launches along the trail, and Franklin’s historic district is a must-see.
Grand Avoille Cove Paddling Trail – Lake Fausse Point is a great spot for birding! Canoeists can paddle under and around large moss-draped cypress trees which line the lake. Cotton Canal, a small canal located just east of Cotton Point, is a great place for wildlife watching. Once you reach the lake, paddle between the cypress trees for the best view. There are several access points, but a shuttle service may be necessary.
Cypremort Point Paddling Trail. The trails feature moss-draped cypress trees, majestic oaks and abundant wildlife, and they are easily accessible from several points of departure along the coast. While secluded spots and scenic beauty are all around you, you are not far from rustic to elegant accommodations and abundant dining along the Cajun Coast.
If you’re not the paddling sort, swamp tours and fishing charters also provide opportunities for getting out on the water. Blu Rebel Charters or other nearby captains can take you inland or further out into the deeper waters of the Gulf. Our State Parks and Wildlife Refuges are also along waterways for additional opportunities. You can even rent a houseboat to stay along the water’s edge!
Paddle or charter your way into another world along the Cajun Coast!