Ouachita River Trail

Monroe-Ruston Area
Region
Monroe - Ruston Area
Type of Route
River
Difficulty
Hard

Flowing more than 600 miles through Arkansas and into north Louisiana, the Ouachita River is one of the region’s most iconic waterways — and a go-to destination for experienced paddlers looking for a bit more adventure. This river offers scenic views and steady current, making it a thrilling paddle for those ready to take on moving water.

This is a point-to-point paddle, so you’ll need to set up a shuttle. Conditions are best when there’s a north or northwest wind giving you a boost. The water moves faster here, so it’s a good pick for intermediate to advanced paddlers, especially when the river is at Pool Stage (21 feet at the Monroe Gage). Watch for boat traffic, bring your river smarts and enjoy the ride. Be sure to check water levels before you go.

Take a stroll down Antique Alley, where you’ll find one of the largest shopping malls in north Louisiana, along with a wide array of boutiques offering the antique hunter an afternoon of fun or the savvy shopper the newest, trendiest items. Hungry? Have dinner at Restaurant Cotton. We recommend the gas station fried chicken with whipped potatoes.

Learn more about the area: Discover Monroe-West Monroe

Contact Info:
Discover Monroe-West Monroe
Address: 601 Constitution Drive West Monroe, LA 71292
Telephone: (318) 387-5691
Website