Marc Dupuy, Jr. Wildlife Trail

Are you and your pup aching for a lovely, but short outing in Louisiana? The Grand Cote National Wildlife Refuge is the place be. Here you will find the Marc Dupuy Jr. Wildlife Trail which is located in the central part of Louisiana. This trail is just about ½ mile long in one direction and traverses out into the refuge.

Pups are welcome here on leash, so you can relax and enjoy your hike together. This paved, asphalt trail winds through the wetlands area of the refuge on level terrain, so it is suitable for all pup-abilities. Soon you will find yourselves on a wooden boardwalk which passes over the marshy sections where waterfowl live. This boardwalk offers handrails and the entire trail is easily managed with a wheelchair. 

At the end of your hike, you will be guided to an observation tower, elevated so you can get a sweeping, bird’s eye view of the entire refuge. There are interpretive signs along the entire path pointing out animal and plant species which migrate and grow here, and the tower offers even more informative material.  Check out the telescopes for all located here, including a wheelchair-accessible one. If you and your pup would like to relax and listen to the sounds of nature, benches are provided throughout your stroll for you to rest your feet and for Fido to rest his paws!

Take some time to unwind and if you still have some energy left, there is an unpaved loop trail which connects to the wildlife trail for additional hiking opportunities! This is pup’s chance to do a bit of ‘off-roading!’ Be sure to pack plenty of water and clean up bags to keep this refuge pup-friendly!

Check out this trail for some quality outdoor time with your pup in the great state of Louisiana.