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The Pontchartrain Lakefront Trail runs for 13.3 miles between Metairie and Kenner along the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Between Grandlake Estates Neighborhood and Bucktown Harbor Marina, it offers stunning views of the lake, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge, and access to various lakefront attractions.
About the Route
The western endpoint of the Pontchartrain Lakefront Trail picks up at Grandlake Boulevard's southern dead end on the north side of I-10, opposite the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. Running along the western edge of Kenner, the trail follows the Duncan Canal northern to the lake. Curving east, the trail follows the lakeshore to the marina. There are pedestrian/bike bridges over the outfall canals and an underpass beneath Causeway Boulevard. Access the trail at either end and at most of the major north/south streets, like Causeway.
Several short spur trails provide connections with the neighborhood along the route. The trail passes by several parks, playgrounds, and water access. Restrooms and other amenities are available at Laketown Park and the Bonnabel Boat Launch. Paved, wide, and flat, the trail is likely accessible for those using mobility devices and easily navigable for families with strollers.
In addition to offering various recreational opportunities, the off-road trail also serves as an alternative recreational transportation link for the surrounding communities. It provides a safe and pleasant route for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate the area while accessing local businesses, schools, and several dining and shopping options.
There is plenty of flora and fauna to admire while on the trail. The lakefront is home to various wildlife, including multiple species of waterfowl. Explore the Pontchartrain Lakefront Trail any time of day and enjoy stunning views of the water, which are particularly dramatic from sunrise to sunset.
The Pontchartrain Lakefront Trail runs between Grandlake Blvd, south of S Lafourche Ct (Kenner) and 1628 Carrollton Ave (Metairie), with parking available at the trail’s eastern endpoint.
Parking is also available at:
Please see the TrailLink Map for all parking options and detailed directions.
Went end of May. Good surface. Pretty lake. No trees.
Nice trail for walking or biking. Great if you just want to get out and meander along the lake. There are little spots along the way to sit and rest if you need. Very quiet, very safe.
This is a well-paved trail that you ride for 24 miles round trip if you start at one end do a turnaround at the other end. It consistently has low traffic and is completely safe. If you need a diversion from looking constantly at the lake, you can take one of the paved access paths over the levee to get a gander at the stately homes overlooking the levee path. The only caveat if you're on a bike is that there is absolutely nothing to block the wind coming off the lake if indeed it is one of those windy days. On one of our hot summer days with the oppressive heat and spirit-crushing humidity, however, some breeze is quite welcome. There are several places to park your car along the trail so access is quite easy. Enjoy!
The surface is smooth and straight except for crossings of pumping station outlets. Long straight sections allow for plenty of speed if desired. The ride and view is kind of boring as there is just the shore on one side and a levy on the land side. There are portable toilets at the various parking areas. The downside of this trail is no shade or water.
Nice trail on the south side of Lake Pontchartrain. Very smooth, flat, and scenic trail overlooking lake. Parked at Bonnabel Boat launch/park. (Close to causeway bridge) Safe and plenty of parking spots. Also has port-a-potties at this location and at Laketown fishing pier next to Treasure Chest Casino. Observed police patrols in all the parks, plus locals walking and running alone. No shade on this trail, but nice breeze off the lake the day we rode. (If you want shade, ride on the north side of the lake-Tammany Trace)
quiet, safe and clean. very impressed! dog friendly, bike friendly, run friendly with amazing views of wildlife and boating.
quiet, safe and clean. very impressed! dog friendly, bike friendly, run friendly with amazing views of wildlife and boating.
Probably the nicest trail in Metro NOLA but absolutely no shade anywhere along the way. Riding alongside lake Ponchatrain makes for a very scenic ride. A little tough in middle of summer, probably much nicer in the fall. Tammany Trace is probably better in summer because it’s mainly shady. Looking forward to riding when the weather gets cooler. Enjoy.
Great landscape. Very safe. Clean.
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