Lundi Love: Lake Martin
In college, I took a photography class. And we had an assignment to meet just before dawn at a place called, Lake Martin to shoot some photos. From that day on I was in love with this place.
Lake Martin is a beautiful swamp just 7 miles from Lafayette. From Lafayette, take Carmel Drive toward Breaux Bridge and then take a right on Lake Martin Road. After a few miles, look for a sign and a gravel road on your left that leads to Lake Martin. The lake took form in 1952 when a levee was built around a natural lake. It is full of life. The lake is a sanctuary, home to many birds, snakes, turtles, and alligators. Expect to see blue heron, egrets, bullfrogs, tree frogs, cottonmouth snakes and more. Trails circle around the entire lake. Be sure to wear shoes sure that are ok to get dirty. It can get pretty muddy on some of the trails.
Many people go to Lake Martin to fish. Some off the bank and some in a boat. I have even seen some people swim in Lake Martin. Although the water looks fresh and inviting, this is one activity that I would never partake in. Lake Martin is a swamp and is full of alligators.
I prefer to explore in a kayak. If you don’t own a kayak, a shop near the launch will rent one to you. In a kayak, it is easy to maneuver around the trees and get as close as possible to the giant alligators. I do not recommend getting too close. Although alligators are a magnificent sight, they are also very dangerous. But to be honest, this is my favorite part about Lake Martin. I love getting up close to the gator. It is an amazing but terrifying feeling to see one face to face. Most of the time, they just stare me down until I get too close for comfort. Then they drop down into the water causing a ripple of waves that shake up the kayak.
There is no cost to explore Lake Martin. It is free. No launch fee. Check out one of Louisiana’s natural beauties. Lake Martin is located at 1209 Rookery Road, Breaux Bridge, LA.
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Lake Martin History – Breaux Bridge
Lake Martin, Louisiana – Facebook
