According to Andrew Plylar, Louisiana’s mountainous geography is as unique and vibrant as the state’s history and culture.
Mountains in Louisiana
Within its state borders, Louisiana is home to many mountain ranges, hills and peaks. Significant summits include:
Driskill Mountain
Elevation: 535 feet (163 meters)
Named after James Christopher Driskill, Driskill Mountain is home to unique notes of Louisianian history. You Are My Sunshine, an original by singer/songwriter, Jimmie Davis, was performed at the summit in what would become a historical moment. Five years after his band’s performance, Davis became the governor of Louisiana. His tune, You Are My Sunshine, also became the state’s official song, as it remains today. Driskill Mountain is the highest natural summit in the state of Louisiana. Created by the erosion of unlithified Paleogene sediment, the summit consists of various nonmarine quartz sands. Plant life on Driskill Mountain includes dogwood and wild azalea flora.
Tunica Hills
Elevation: 230 feet (70 meters)
In true Louisiana fashion, Tunica Hills is rich in unique hues. Laid out across 6,503 acres, the mountain’s terrain is made up of rugged hills, bluffs and ravines. Andrew Plylar is most fascinated by the area’s distinctive assortment of hardwoods, which includes trees of maple, cherrybark, cow oak, American beech, hackberry, yellow poplar, elm and many, many more. This location is particularly special to local and visiting hikers who enjoy birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Wild Azalea Trail
Elevation: 164 feet (50 meters)
Located within Kisatchie National Forest, the Wild Azalea Trail is a designated foot and mountain biking area. As a hiking enthusiast, Andrew Plylar enjoys visiting the Trail for his outdoor adventures in the spring and summer seasons. Carrying the honor of Louisiana’s longest trail, the adventure of traversing Wild Azalea Trail hosts the WAT Challenge each January. The event kicks off the year for local hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers alike!