Lake Catherine & The Rigolets

The Rigolets is an area of New Orleans East that has played a vital part in New Orleans history. Maroon communities developed in the area during the colonial period and forts were later built to protect the city. Most of what made this area distinctive washed away, but there are a few remains of this historically integral part of the city. This tour explores restored sites as well as a few that only exist as photographs and memories.

The tour begins at Fort Macomb, which is located near the intersection of Highway 90 and Fort Macomb Road. The fort is on the right when approaching from the west. It is not accessible to foot traffic but can easily be seen from a shell road that leads along the opposite bank of the adjacent canal.

Access: Hybrid driving/walking tour. Directions are included in each tour stop description.

Distance: ~10 miles

Tips: This tour includes Fort Pike Historic Site, which charges a small fee; however, should the tour be completed outside of operating hours, or if you want to avoid the fee, one can visit the surrounding areas instead. It is recommended that one tour the area in daylight so that the sites are easier to view and the animals are easier to avoid.

There are a lot of mosquitoes throughout much of the year, so bring repellent and watch out for snakes during the warmer months. Please be respectful of the wildlife.