Discover Monroe-West Monroe Launches Phase I of Ouachita Paddling Trails for Visitors

Discover Monroe-West Monroe (DMWM) officially launched Phase I of the Ouachita Paddling Trails on May 14, 2025, at Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge Boat Dock. This new outdoor initiative highlights the natural asset of our rivers, lakes, bayous and is designed to help visitors and locals explore and enjoy our outdoor resources more easily.

The website, www.ouachitapaddlingtrails.com, features six trails and each with its own map: Cheniere Lake Trail, Black Bayou Eagle’s Nest Paddle Trail, Bayou D’Arbonne Trail, Bayou DeSiard Trail, Ouachita River Trail and Moon Lake Paddle Trail. The trails are open to beginner and seasoned paddlers.

DMWM offers safety guidelines to ensure a fun adventure for all who participate. It’s recommended to never paddle alone and to keep these recommended items when taking a Ouachita Paddling adventure: sunglasses with a strap attached, lip balm, matches, cash/credit card, camera, binoculars, knife, extra water and food, extra clothes, rain jacket.

This project is the product of a collaborative effort between DMWM, City of West Monroe, North Delta Regional Planning and Development District, and local community volunteer Steve Birmingham.

"Enhancing the visitor experience is a key focus of our strategic plan,” said DMWM President/CEO Alana Cooper. “This product development effort brings that goal to life. It provides a fresh way to showcase our region and invites visitors to fully experience the beauty and adventure of Ouachita Parish.”  

Visitors can find the paddling safety checklist here.

Ouachita Paddle and Provisions in West Monroe is a key partner for life jackets, expert advice and rentals for kayaks and paddles. Scheduled paddles on our local waterways will happen each month.  Plans for expanding the trails and rental opportunities will continue throughout the rest of the year.  

DMWM is welcoming everyone to share their kayaking adventures with us online by visiting https://www.monroe-westmonroe.org/ouachita-paddling-trail/ and scrolling down. We are encouraging the showcasing of our natural beauty through photography that can be uploaded at the website.  

For more information, visit www.ouachitapaddlingtrails.com or reach out to DMWM at 318-387-5691.

About Discover Monroe-West Monroe

Discover Monroe-West Monroe promotes Ouachita Parish as a destination for leisure travel, conventions, meetings and sporting events, creating a positive economic impact for our local community through increased visitor spending and sales tax collections. For more information about Discover Monroe-West Monroe, visit https://www.monroe-westmonroe.org/