hiking, nature September 26, 2022
The JC “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area goes by many names. It was officially named the Sicily Island Hills Wildlife Management Area and Sicily Island Hills State Wildlife Management Area before being renamed in honor of JC “Sonny” Gilbert. Gilbert was a Louisiana Senator who was also a member of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission. This WMA is often overlooked as a destination for outdoor adventures, especially for those looking for new trails to tackle. The hiking trails here are a real hidden gem and lead to some incredible places. Let’s check it out:




That shouldn’t be hard, as Louisiana leads the nation in average rainfall at nearly 60 inches a year.


Louisiana’s three waterfalls are all within this WMA.

Rock Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state! At 17 feet, that might just be a drip for other states, but we’re taking it! It’s not every day you stumble upon a waterfall on a Louisiana trail, but there are three here.
Be sure to check the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries website before heading out to make sure the trails are open. Sometimes a heavy rain can close the trails for a day or two.
Address: JC “Sonny” Gilbert Wildlife Management Area, Island of Sicily, LA 71368, USA