The best road cycling routes around Gretna
4.4
(15)
591
riders
38
rides
Road cycling around Gretna, Louisiana, offers routes along the Mississippi River, providing views of the New Orleans skyline and passing ships. The terrain is largely flat, characterized by southern marshes and coastal wetlands. Cyclists can expect paved rural roads with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various fitness levels.
Best road cycling routes around Gretna
- The most popular road cycling route is Mississippi River Trail, a 58.4 miles (94.0 km) trail that takes 4 hours 6 minutes toâŠ
Last updated: October 27, 2026
5
riders
94.0km
04:06
40m
40m
Embark on a journey along the Mississippi River Trail, where you'll find yourself cycling atop vast levees, offering unparalleled views of the iconic river. This route provides a unique perspectiveâŠ
3
riders
54.3km
02:07
10m
10m
The Chalmette & Belle Chasse route offers a captivating road cycling experience, guiding you through a diverse tapestry of lush wetlands, serene bayous, and impressive Mississippi River vistas. You willâŠ
1
riders
137km
05:18
30m
30m
Embark on a challenging road cycling adventure through Plaquemines Parish, a difficult 85.1-mile (137.0 km) route that takes about 5 hours and 18 minutes to complete. You will experience aâŠ
5.0
(1)
13
riders
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
13.6km
00:32
10m
10m
Easy road ride. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The French Quarter is the historic heart of New Orleans and is considered the city's oldest district. Its origins date back to 1718, when the first buildings were built around the central square. Today, colorful facades, wrought-iron balconies, and colonial architecture characterize the area. Many houses date back to the Spanish period. The district was designated a historic landmark in 1965 and is a tourist attraction with museums, music clubs, cafes, and vibrant street art.
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Beautiful, small park - you can relax here or listen to concerts - a beautiful location with a pleasant atmosphere
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The Greenway is one of the best ways to get from Mid-City to Downtown since it is a fully protected route and not in the street. There are a couple of street crossings with crosswalks.
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One of the main reasons to visit the city is definitely a stroll through the French Quarter, which still seems quite original and a bit out of time - very beautiful, with a lot of charm - despite the temporary crowds
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The absolute highlight of the houses in the French Quarter; it is probably one of the most popular photo motifs in the city, although there are many beautiful, old houses here
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The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré in French, is the oldest part of New Orleans. After New Orleans was founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the city developed around the central square, Vieux Carré (German: "old square"). Today, the district is commonly called the French Quarter, or simply "The Quarter," in English, due to the influx of American immigrants following the Louisiana Purchase. Most of the surviving historic buildings were built either in the late 18th century, when the city was still part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, or during the first half of the 19th century, after the French colony of Louisiana became part of the United States and then a state. The district as a whole, with its numerous unique buildings, has been designated a National Historic Landmark, which is individually considered significant. It is the first stop for tourists in the city and a major attraction for residents. Because of its distance from the areas where the levee failed during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, as well as the strong and high levees on the nearby Mississippi River, the French Quarter experienced relatively minor flood damage compared to other areas of the city and the greater region.
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For over 150 years Lafayette Square has hosted inaugurations, school bands and jazz concerts. Today it's a great place to relax or catch one of the free summer concerts that happen in the square.
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One of the nicest homes in the French Quarter and a great photo opportunity
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes will I encounter on road cycling routes around Gretna, Louisiana?
Road cycling around Gretna, Louisiana, offers scenic views along the Mississippi River, including glimpses of the New Orleans skyline and international ships. You'll primarily experience flat terrain characterized by southern marshes and coastal wetlands, with routes often on lightly traveled, paved rural roads.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Gretna area?
There are over 35 road cycling routes available around Gretna, Louisiana, catering to various skill levels. This includes 23 easy routes, 11 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Gretna?
Yes, Gretna offers many routes suitable for families, with 23 easy routes and minimal elevation changes. The New Orleans Holocaust Memorial loop from New Orleans is an easy 17.3-mile (27.9 km) option that can be completed in under an hour and a half, making it a good choice for a leisurely family ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Gretna, Louisiana?
Louisiana's mild climate allows for road cycling almost year-round. However, the cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring (November to April) are generally preferred to avoid the summer heat and humidity.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Gretna?
The road cycling routes in Gretna are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the scenic views of the Mississippi River and the New Orleans skyline, as well as the flat, accessible terrain through marshes and wetlands.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions to see along the road cycling routes?
Yes, many routes offer proximity to significant attractions. You might pass by historical sites like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, admire the French Quarter Historic Architecture, or see iconic spots like St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square, especially on routes that venture closer to New Orleans.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available from Gretna?
For those seeking longer rides, the Plaquemines Parish route is a challenging 85.1-mile (137.0 km) trail through coastal wetlands, typically completed in about 5 hours 11 minutes. Another substantial option is the Mississippi River Trail, which spans 58.4 miles (94.0 km).
What is the typical terrain and elevation gain like on Gretna's road cycling routes?
The terrain around Gretna is largely flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various fitness levels. Routes are predominantly on paved rural roads, winding through southern marshes and coastal wetlands.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Gretna?
Yes, there are several loop options. For example, the New Orleans City Park â Lafitte Greenway loop from New Orleans is a moderate 39.4-mile (63.4 km) route that offers a circular experience.
Can I find routes that offer views of the Mississippi River and New Orleans skyline?
Absolutely. Many routes in the Gretna area are designed to showcase these iconic views. The Mississippi River Trail specifically follows the river, providing excellent opportunities to see the New Orleans skyline and passing ships.
Are there any moderate difficulty road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, there are 11 moderate routes available. A popular choice is Chalmette & Belle Chasse, a 33.8-mile (54.3 km) path that traverses areas with southern marshes and coastal wetlands, offering a good balance of distance and scenery.
Most popular routes around Gretna
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