Tammany Trace
A paved former rail line links Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe, and Slidell through pine woods, wetlands, trailheads, and town centers.
Artwork inspired by William Woodward
The Tammany Trace follows about thirty-one miles of former railroad right-of-way and works both as regional transportation and linear park. Its near-level grade makes long rides approachable, while trailheads allow short walks into distinct town and habitat sections. Bridges, depots, straight cuts, and community edges reveal the corridor’s rail history.
Do not assume every segment feels identical or every street crossing is protected. Choose distance around water, heat, return transport, and the amenities actually open at your destination. Fast cyclists, families, runners, and equestrians may share portions; predictable passing, controlled speed, and attention at road crossings matter more than mileage goals.
- Length
- About 31 miles
- Surface
- Paved rail-trail
- Communities
- Five northshore towns
Quick guide
- Choose
- Two trailheads with known services
- Signal
- Every pass and road crossing
Make the visit count
- Notice rail geometry
- Begin with long straight grades, depots, and bridge alignments reveal the former transportation corridor.
- Match the heat
- Begin early and shorten plans when humidity or sun makes the return leg unsafe.
- Yield clearly
- Announce passes, control dogs, and follow posted rules for bikes, walkers, and horses.
- Enter towns slowly
- Street crossings and local traffic increase near the very places riders are most tempted to relax
Good to know
The Trace is linear, and rides that feel easy with a tailwind can become difficult on return. Trailheads differ in restrooms, water, parking, and bike service; verify your exact endpoints, current bridge work, and parish alerts instead of navigating only to the trail name.
Notice these
- Historic depots
- Paved pine corridor
- Northshore town links