New Orleans Bike Trails

Different bikes and riding styles call for different trails. Here's our guide to matching your bike and riding style with the best New Orleans trails.

Road Bikes

The Mississippi River Levee Trail and Lake Pontchartrain Levee are perfect for road bikes, with long stretches of smooth, flat pavement. The Audubon Park Loop is great for interval training on a road bike.

Hybrid and Fitness Bikes

The Lafitte Greenway and City Park Trail are ideal for hybrid bikes, offering a mix of paved surfaces and urban scenery. These versatile trails accommodate everything from casual cruises to fitness rides.

Cruiser and City Bikes

Audubon Park Loop and the Lafitte Greenway are perfect for cruiser bikes, with smooth pavement, plenty of shade, and a relaxed pace. Stop for a coffee or a beignet along the way.

Gravel and Adventure Bikes

While New Orleans is primarily flat and paved, the levee paths and some park trails offer gravel sections that are perfect for gravel bikes. The Couturie Forest in City Park has unpaved paths for light adventure riding.

Before you hit the trails in New Orleans, a little preparation goes a long way. The city's subtropical climate means hot, humid conditions most of the year, with afternoon thunderstorms common from May through September. Plan your rides for early morning or late afternoon, always carry water, and check the radar before heading out.

New Orleans terrain is famously flat — there are no hills to speak of — but the city's streets and trails can have potholes, uneven pavement, and occasional flooding after heavy rain. A hybrid or gravel bike with wider tires is ideal for navigating the mix of paved greenways, levee paths, and neighborhood streets. Always carry a spare tube, tire levers, and a pump, as debris and glass are common on urban routes.

Most New Orleans trails are multi-use, so be prepared to share the path with pedestrians, joggers, families, and dog walkers. Ring a bell or call out when passing, and keep right except to pass. With a little awareness and preparation, cycling in New Orleans is one of the best ways to experience the city.

With trails ranging from short park loops to miles-long levee paths, choosing the right New Orleans cycling route depends on your goals, experience level, and the type of ride you're after. Here's how to find your perfect trail.

For Beginners and Families

The Audubon Park Loop (1.8 miles) and City Park Trail (3.5 miles) are ideal for new riders and families. Both offer smooth pavement, plenty of shade from live oaks, and amenities like restrooms and water fountains. The Lafitte Greenway is also great for beginners, with wide, flat pavement connecting multiple neighborhoods.

For Scenic Long Rides

The Mississippi River Levee Trail offers miles of uninterrupted, flat pavement with stunning river views. It's perfect for longer rides, training, or watching spectacular sunsets over the Mississippi. The Lake Pontchartrain Levee Trail is another excellent option for distance riders.

For Commuters

The Lafitte Greenway is the city's premier commuter corridor, connecting the French Quarter to City Park through Mid-City. Pair it with neighborhood bike lanes to get across town efficiently and safely.

For Nature Lovers

City Park's trail system winds through ancient live oaks, lagoons, and botanical gardens. The Couturie Forest section offers a more natural, shaded riding experience within the city limits.