Sometimes you just need to get away…
I think most Tulanians would agree that there is never a shortage of things to do on campus. Let’s be real, we all love a good tailgate. And sure, student-orgs and school-wide events are a huge part of the complete “college experience,” but getting off campus is a necessity in a place like NOLA. While Ba Chi or La Casita (both wonderful options), are both fun and easy excuses to get off-campus, the notorious “Tulane bubble” can be a challenge to actually escape. Louisiana is full of surprises, and there is a plethora of opportunities to truly ~escape~ that are just a day trip away.
First off on our list of day trip getaways is tubing down the Bogue Chitto River.
The Bogue Chitto is a tributary off the Pearl River and passes through the infamous Bogue Chitto State Park. While the Bogue Chitto tubing center is known for its fun and relaxing two (or four) hour tubing trips, they also offer canoeing, kayaking, and even camping if you’re feeling extra outdoorsy. Your cooler even gets it’s own personal tube! The drive is a little over an hour from Tulane’s campus and involves crossing the longest continuous bridge over a body of water in the world- The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. To learn more about a trip to the Bogue Chitto, Click here!
Next on our list is kayaking in the wetlands with Louisiana Lost Lands Environmental Tours.
While this adventure is a little more structured and educational than the Bogue Chitto experience, this particular touring company prides themselves on being “anything but your typical swamp tour.” Lost Lands Tours is a must-do for everyone: whether you go to Tulane, live in Louisiana, or are simply visiting, a Lost Lands Tour will be an experience you’ll never forget. The wetlands are a worthy cause to fight for, and what better way to understand this than getting up close and personal with the largest wetland ecosystem left in the lower 48 states. While the damage caused by modern society’s neglect and ignorance will undoubtedly be a downer, kayaking and simultaneously learning a ton about the impact of the wetlands on the rest of society will be an unforgettable experience nonetheless. To learn more about kayaking with Lost Lands Tours, Click here!
Next up is Tunica Falls.
If you haven’t heard of it, I’d be surprised, but actually visiting is a different story. While New Orleans has the notorious reputation of being flat, Tunica Falls is a little more than 2 hours from the city and truly is a whole other world. Tunica Falls encompasses over 2,000 acres, is home to over 40 waterfalls, and has various trails perfect for those hardcore hikers always up for a challenge, or those of us who enjoy a nice, quiet afternoon stroll (with a killer view of course). There are also opportunities to camp in the Tunica Hills Campground, with the option to even rent a cabin if you enjoy comfort along with your camping experience. If you would like to learn more about what Tunica Falls has to offer, Click here!
Last on our list is the Barataria Preserve.
The wetlands walk is a must-do with over 23,000 acres of bayous, swamps, marshes, and forests. The various trail options (self-guided, ranger-led, or cell phone tour) should be taken advantage of, and the variety of wildlife one will encounter is nothing short of incredible. There is so much to learn about Louisiana’s endangered wetlands, and a trip to the Barataria Preserve will most certainly help in that expedition. Be sure to look out for alligators that are visible from the trails! If you would like to read more about the Barataria Preserve and plan a potential trip, Click here!
COVER PHOTO: Maya Curto
Have any places you escape to? Let us know in the comments!
