Ouachita Paddling Trails Phase II Opens at Cheniere Lake. We Were There.

I almost missed it. The ribbon cutting for Phase II of the Ouachita Paddling Trails was out at Cheniere Lake Area 3, and I had the directions wrong. By the time I found the sandy bank, the speeches were wrapping up and dozens of colorful kayaks were already lined up at the water's edge, people adjusting their life jackets, chatting under the covered pavilion, some already on the water.

I grabbed my camera. That's what I came for. Then someone turned to me and asked: do you want to get in?

I said yes.

The crowd was a real mix. Families with kids in small kayaks, couples in tandem boats, a few people who clearly knew what they were doing and a lot more who clearly did not. Nobody cared. The water at Cheniere Lake is calm enough that you can figure it out as you go, which is exactly the point.

The first few minutes were nerve-wracking. A kayak requires more balance than it looks, especially when you're trying to hold a phone steady and take photos at the same time. I stayed close to the group, paddled slowly, and tried not to think about tipping over.

Then I looked up.

Cypress trees lined both banks, their roots in the water, the lake still enough to mirror the clouds. From out on the water, looking back toward the wooden dock, the whole scene looked like a postcard nobody has made yet. Nobody around me was talking.

What Phase II adds

The event was organized by Discover Monroe-West Monroe, with the West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce on hand for the ribbon cutting. The expansion brings six new paddling trails and three new launch locations to Ouachita Parish. Cheniere Lake Area 3 is one of the new additions: a floating dock, a sandy bank for easy entry and exit, and calm water with good tree cover for shade. Kayaks and paddleboards both work here.

The full trail map and all launch site details are at ouachitapaddlingtrails.com.

How to go yourself

Ouachita Paddle and Provisions ran the demos and guided paddle on opening day. They are the local outfitter for these trails: kayak and paddleboard rentals, all the gear, and guided group tours on the water. Find them at 319 Trenton St, West Monroe.

Rental rates as of June 2026: single kayaks $40/day, tandem kayaks $50/day. Weekday pickups start after 10 AM and must be returned by 5 PM, in-store only. On weekends, pickup is available in-store and delivery is available for scheduled paddle events. Group rates exist for church outings, scout trips, and company events. Call (318) 732-9533 or email ouachitapaddle@gmail.com to reserve.

A few practical notes if you're going for the first time: bring sunscreen and water, go early in the morning before the heat settles in, and bring a dry bag for your phone. The water is calm but the sun is not. If you want sheltered water closer to downtown before committing to a full rental, Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge has a boat ramp and quiet paddling inside Monroe city limits.

I am still thinking about buying my own kayak.