When cooler weather moves in and the cypress trees begin to shift color, fall becomes one of the best seasons to get out on the water along The Northshore. The heat eases, wildlife stays active and the bayous and rivers take on a quieter pace, creating inviting conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding and other laid-back outdoor adventures. With easy-access launches and outfitters across St. Tammany Parish, it’s a great time to experience Louisiana’s natural beauty from the water.
From shaded bayous to wide-open lakeshore views, here are some of the best places to paddle The Northshore this fall.
Cane Bayou: A Classic Northshore Paddle
Cane Bayou sits between Fontainebleau State Park and the protected lands of Big Branch Marsh, creating one of the area’s most serene paddling routes. Fall brings softer light and milder temperatures, while cypress knees rise along the banks, osprey perch overhead and the bayou reflects the changing season.
Bayou Adventure operates a self-service paddling rental kiosk near the Cane Bayou launch, with single and tandem kayaks as well as stand-up paddleboards available. It’s an easy option for anyone looking to spend a few unhurried hours exploring the bayou.
Bogue Falaya River: A Peaceful Float Right from Covington
Running through downtown Covington, the Bogue Falaya River offers a surprisingly quiet escape just steps from restaurants, parks and historic streets. Shaded stretches of the river stay comfortable as temperatures begin to drop, and the gentle waterway lends itself to a leisurely paddle.
Launch from the paddler’s launch at Bogue Falaya Park or rent a kayak through Brooks’ Bike Shop, just a few blocks away. Paddle upstream and drift back, or spend some time watching for turtles, herons and kingfishers along the riverbanks. The City of Covington identifies a dedicated paddler’s launch at Bogue Falaya Park, and Brooks’ current listing includes kayak rentals.
Bayou Liberty: Calm Waters and Golden Afternoon Light
Near Slidell, Bayou Liberty winds through wooded and marshy landscapes, offering a mix of open stretches and winding bends. Afternoon trips can be especially scenic as lower autumn sunlight filters through the tree line and across the water.
Bring your own kayak and launch from Camp Salmen Nature Park, where a public kayak launch provides direct access to Bayou Liberty. Foggy Waters Marina also provides access to the surrounding waterways. Camp Salmen’s kayak launch is a recent addition to the park.
Also near Slidell is Cajun Encounters Tour Company. Known for their popular guided tours of Honey Island Swamp, they also offer kayak tours of this fascinating, pristine ecosystem.
Lake Pontchartrain: Big Views and Breezy Paddle Days
Cooler fall days make Lake Pontchartrain especially inviting for paddlers who enjoy wide-open water and expansive views. From Mandeville’s lakefront, the horizon seems to stretch forever, with the Causeway in the distance and plenty of room to settle into an easy rhythm.
Seal Sports in Mandeville rents paddleboards and other gear for getting out on the water. Early mornings can offer beautiful light and quieter surroundings, while evening paddles bring some of the Northshore’s most memorable sunsets. Because lake conditions can change quickly, newer paddlers should stay close to shore and check conditions before heading out.
Tchefuncte River: Historic Scenery Meets Easy Paddling
The Tchefuncte River is one of the parish’s most scenic waterways, known for its winding turns, gentle current, and beautiful riverfront homes. In fall, the cypress trees lining the river shift to warm, rusty tones, creating a gorgeous backdrop for a relaxed paddle. The river’s mix of shaded banks and sunny patches makes it enjoyable all day long.
If a guided boat tour is more your speed, Louisiana Tours and Adventures and Tchefuncte River Charters offer relaxing themed trips - think sunset cruises to the Madisonville lighthouse or gator spotting night trips.
Plan Your Fall Paddle Trip
With milder temperatures and waterways ranging from narrow bayous to the broad expanse of Lake Pontchartrain, fall is a beautiful time to experience kayaking, paddleboarding and other outdoor activities on The Northshore. Whether you’re slipping quietly through a cypress-lined bayou or catching the last light of the day from a paddleboard, Louisiana’s Easy Escape looks a little different from the water.
