If you're looking for a hiking trail suitable for all skill levels near Minden and Pace, Louisiana, look no further than Sugar Cane Trail. This 6.4-mile trail is located within Kisatchie National Forest, and it's a furrific way to spend a few hours with your dog experiencing all that Louisiana has to offer.
You and your dog can complete this loop trail in about three hours, and your journey will be marked with an abundance of wildflowers native to Louisiana. Many stretches of the trail take you through shady wooded areas with tall pine trees lining the way. Other areas of the path take you alongside a lake and several small creeks. If your dog is a fan of the water, there are lots of places where they can take a dip and cool off along the way.
Visitors love that the Sugar Cane Trail is so easy to follow and well-marked, which makes for a peaceful journey. You have your choice of taking a few different loops from within the trail of varying difficulty, so you can get a good workout in if you'd like, or stay on a relatively flat path if you'd prefer.
The Sugar Cane Trail is utilized primarily by foot traffic, but it's not uncommon to see a group of cyclists along your way. The trail is open year-round, but your best bet for seeing plant species in full bloom is to visit during spring or summer.
Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear, as there are a few parts of the trail where you'll have to maneuver around standing bodies of water or over fallen trees. Be sure to bring a good supply of drinking water and doggie bags for your pooch, as there are no water or waste disposal stations on the trail.
Sugar Cane Trail is a lovely way to spend half a day with your dog, and the two of you will fall in love with the scenic views along the way!