🍂 Welcome to Fall in the 337

There is something magical about fall in Cajun Country. The air gets cooler, the trees start to show off their colors, and the bayous sparkle in that soft afternoon light. It is the perfect time to lace up your sneakers, pack a picnic, and head outside to explore the wild beauty right here in Acadiana.

I am Alyson Finch, REALTOR® with District South by Real Broker, and when I am not helping families find their perfect home, I am out soaking up Louisiana sunshine. Let me take you on a little tour of my favorite outdoor escapes across the 337,  places where you can stretch your legs, clear your mind, and fall in love with where we live all over again.

🌿 Favorite Nature Trails and Outdoor Spots Across Acadiana

 🏞️ Moncus Park – Lafayette

This 100-acre gem in the heart of Lafayette is the perfect spot for everyone. Walk or jog along the paved trails, let the kids run wild on the playground, and enjoy the Saturday farmers market under the oaks. Bring your pup and a blanket because this park was made for lazy fall afternoons.
💛 Alyson’s Tip: Grab a coffee from Jet Coffee before you walk the loop.

🚶‍♀️ Lake Martin – Breaux Bridge

A peaceful paradise filled with cypress trees, Spanish moss, and bird calls. You can stroll the nature trail, snap a few photos of the swamp life, or take a guided boat tour to spot gators and egrets. Fall mornings here are simply breathtaking.
💛 Pro Tip: Go early for sunrise — it is pure Cajun magic.

🌾 Acadiana Park Nature Station – Lafayette

Perfect for families who love both learning and adventure. This nature preserve features several miles of shaded trails and a visitor center with educational exhibits. You might see turtles sunning, woodpeckers in the trees, and a few tiny frogs hopping by.  And in the Fall, you’ll see fewer mosquitoes!
💛 Local Love: The raised boardwalk trail is stroller-friendly and great for younger explorers.

🚲 Chicot State Park – Ville Platte

If you are ready for a day trip, Chicot is one of Louisiana’s most beautiful parks. It offers hiking, biking, fishing, and picnic spots around a gorgeous lake surrounded by rolling hills and towering pines. The colors here in fall are picture-perfect.
💛 Alyson’s Tip: Pack bug spray and a picnic basket — you will want to stay awhile.

🛶 Bayou Teche Paddle Trail – St. Martinville and Breaux Bridge

For those who love the water, this scenic paddle route lets you float through the heart of Acadiana’s history. Glide past sugarcane fields, cypress trees, and charming bayou towns. Rent a kayak locally or join a guided paddle group on cooler fall weekends.
💛 Experience Tip: Bring your camera — the reflections on the bayou are unreal this time of year.

🌻 Simple Ways to Enjoy Fall Outdoors in Acadiana

• Visit local farmers markets and support small growers
• Have a picnic at Girard Park or Parc Sans Souci
• Go bird-watching or take a nature walk with your kids
• Watch the sunset over Vermilion River
• Pack a gumbo lunch and call it a day well spent outdoors

🍁 Things to Keep in Mind

• Dress in layers — mornings can be cool, afternoons warm
• Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray
• Always check park hours and trail conditions before you go
• Leave no trace — Acadiana’s beauty stays alive when we all take care of it

💛 Final Thoughts

Acadiana is beautiful year-round, but in fall it feels especially peaceful. The air is soft, the crowds thin out, and every trail and bayou seems to whisper “slow down.” Whether you are hiking under the cypress trees, paddling along Bayou Teche, or walking your dog at Moncus Park, take the time to breathe it all in — this is what makes life in the 337 so special.

💛 Here’s to fall adventures, fresh air, and feeling right at home in Cajun Country.

Alyson Finch, REALTOR®
District South by Real Broker, LLC
📞 337.280.9651 | 📧 alyson@livinginthe337.com
🌐 www.livinginthe337.com
💛 Helping you find and celebrate home in the 337