Latest news with #Natchitoches
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
The 7 most scenic small towns in Louisiana. WorldAtlas says to give these spots a visit
The state of Louisiana is referred to as a "Sportsman's paradise" for good reason, as the state is home to diverse wildlife and provides excellent opportunities for hunting, fishing and outdoor adventures. All throughout Louisiana, state parks and nature preserves can be found and be visited by the public. Escaping into Louisiana's unique natural landscape is a decision visitors won't regret, especially at these seven most scenic small towns, according to WorldAtlas. While destinations where one can immerse themselves in natural beauty can be found all over the state, the most serene hidden gems can be found within Louisiana's smaller communities. Natchitoches is the oldest town in Louisiana, and is considered the oldest permanent settlement within the borders of the Louisiana Purchase. The city is located along the Cane River Lake and, in the vicinity of this lake, the Cane River National Heritage and the Cane River Creole National Historical Park can be found. Additionally, there is the Briarwood Nature Preserve, where towering trees and native wildflowers are abundant. Louisiana's one and only national forest, Kisatchie National Forest, can also be found and explored within Natchitoches. Covington, Louisiana is situated on the Northshore Lake Pontchartrain, located at a fork of the Bogue Falaya and the Tchefuncte River. The serene Bogue Falaya River is a perfect location for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and other outdoor adventures. Additionally, Tammany Trace in Covington is a 31-mile hike-and-bike trail where visitors can wander through the winding forests and wetlands. Mandeville, Louisiana is also found on the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain. The city is home to Fontainebleau State Park, where there are numerous hiking trails and campsites. The Tammany Trace trail can also be found and explored in Covington, and the Northlake Nature Center provides bird watching opportunities and trail access. Grand Isle is a town in Louisiana located on a narrow barrier island on the Gulf Coast that's known for its beaches, especially those within the Grand Isle State Park. This park is full of trails, campsites, a fishing pier, the Grand Isle Birding Trail and the Butterfly Dome. Elmer's Island Wildlife Refuge is also a great destination for fishing, as blue crabs, sea catfish and red drum are plentiful. St. Francisville is found within West Feliciana Parish, where there's unique topography, abundant wildlife and natural beauty. At Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area, visitors will find hiking trails through dense forests, waterfalls and rare plant habitats. The Audubon State Historic Site is another tranquil destination, where scenic strolls can be taken alongside landscaped gardens and towering oak trees. Breaux Bridge, also known as the "Crawfish Capital of the World," is a charming small town in South Louisiana. Lake Martin in Breaux Bridge supplies an opportunity for a nature escape, especially for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. This lake is encompassed by the Cypress Island Nature Preserve, which is home to one of the largest wading bird rookeries in the state. Abita Springs was historically home to a Choctaw Native American community who named the region's springs "fountain" because of their medicinal properties. During the 1800s, Abita Springs began attracting visitors as a health and recreational destination. Now, the town appeals to those seeking fresh water, natural beauty, culture and the 'quiet life.' Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@ This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: What are the best small towns in Louisiana? WorldAtlas highlights these 7
Yahoo
10-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Natchitoches mayor: Economic development board prompted by paper mill closure
NATCHITOCHES, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Mayor Ronnie Williams delivers this week's yearly State of the City address. Mayor Williams said his annual address was delayed until May after International Paper announced the unexpected closure of the Red River Paper Mill in Campti. In his address, Williams reflected on the community's resilience while sharing updates on infrastructure, neighborhood development, public safety, and job growth efforts. 'Our mindset is to continue to position the City of Natchitoches as a business-friendly community. With that in mind, I will formulate a seven to ten-person economic development board composed of local business leaders who are wholeheartedly committed to the success of our city,' Williams said. He continued to say that the city would continue to seek new opportunities for job growth after the mill closure. You can watch the entire State of the City address here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
