Jean Lafitte NHP Barataria Preserve Part 3

Sunday July 19, 2026

The Twin Canals start by the trailhead and go straight out to another canal. The Twin Canals trail is on higher ground between the two canals. This is the only part of Barataria Preserve that is listed as open during the 2026 repairs from damage caused by Hurricane Ida in 2021. There is also a canoe launch at this trailhead. Check out the first two parts of this series: Part 1 Part 2

Water Partially Covers in Small Plants Canal Near the Start of the Trail

Straight Waterway with Overhanging Trees Long and Straight Canal

View from the Trailhead for Twin Canals Trail Another View from Near the Trailhead

Not too far in there was a short boardwalk.

Boardwalk Through Tall Grass Going Into Trees Boardwalk Through Tall Grass

The trail being so close to the canal had lots of spots to stop and see the wetlands.

Water Partially Covered with Green Plants Busy Water Near the End of the Trail

At the end of the trail the canals are connected by another canal. This hike was 2.17 km also with no elevation gain (like the other trails) and also took half an hour.

Open Water with Reflection of the Trees and Plants View at the End of the Trail

After hiking, I went to the Wetlands Acadian (Cajun) Cultural Center in Thibodaux which is also a part of Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve. It is one of three museums in the Nation Historic Park about the culture and history of the area. For anyone curious about how the Acadian people shaped coastal Louisiana, the museum offers a solid introduction to their culture and history. I also stopped at the Acadian Culture Center unit in Lafayette, but it had already closed. If you want to visit all three of the Acadian Cultural centers and hike the preserve, you will want to factor in drive time and plan at least two days.

Acadian Cultural Center Entrance Sign Park Sign in Thibodaux