Cat Island Hike Register

Date and Time:
Sat, Sep 20, 2025; 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM  (Central)

Organized By: Baton Rouge Group

Location: Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge

Map | Directions

Event Organizers:
Lee Patterson
   edwardleepatterson@gmail.com
   2252841914

We will meet at the entrance of Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge and hike the Cat Island Baldcypress Trail (0.8 miles). This trail features the largest baldcypress tree in the US (estimated to be over 1,000 years old). The trail is easy and child-friendly, but there may be trees down that need to be climbed over. The area is seasonally flooded, but the water has typically receded by late September. Depending on interest and conditions at the time of the visit, we may also hike the Blackfork Trail (2.5 miles)("This scenic trail splits around a short loop following Blackfork Bayou and winds through a spectacular old-growth cypress forest").

Please bring drinking water and bug spray. As with all outdoor activities in South Louisiana heat illness is a risk. It is advisable to bring boots in case portions of the trail are flooded or muddy. Please let the organizer know if you will need any special accommodations.

Level: Easy

Cost: Free

Bring: Water, bug spray, boots

Additional Directions: Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge does not allow pets.

Carpool: Contact organizer if transportation is needed. While the organizer cannot arrange carpooling, they can make participants aware of who needs rides and who is offering rides. Sierra Club assumes no liability for carpools.

Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels