The Creole Nature Trail, or the Louisiana Outback, is a U-shaped route that runs southeast and southwest of Lake Charles, not far from the Texas border, with horizons of untouched marshlands, bayous, beaches, and wildlife refuges.
Lake Charles is your base: a small city with miles of shoreline along the Calcasieu River, and gorgeous architecture from the 19th century throughout its historic district. Lake Charles calls itself “the festival capital of Louisiana,” as it holds more than 75 each year—none stranger than the Louisiana Pirate Festival, which begins with buccaneers sailing down the Calcasieu River, canons blazing, before “capturing” the mayor and making him walk the plank.
The Creole Trail kicks off just west of Lake Charles, along Highway 27, and winds south toward the Gulf of Mexico. You don't…
