Driskill Mountain – Louisiana High Point

We got to knock out Driskill Mountain, which is the Louisiana High Point, back in July of 2021 (yes, I am still trying to play catchup on posts).

Date Visited: July 04, 2021
Weather Conditions: Sunny & Warm
Temperature: 80 degrees
Elevation: 535 feet
Blaze Color: Blue

Driskill Mountain History

Driskill Mountain derives its name from James Christopher ‘Grancer’ Driskill (1817-1901), an individual who established his residence in the agricultural and forested terrain encompassing the mountain during the latter part of the 1830s, subsequent to his relocation from Macon, Georgia.

Over time, Mr. Driskill acquired ownership of an expansive 960-acre tract within the vicinity. In 1874, he generously contributed two acres of land, which presently serve as the site for the Mount Zion Presbyterian Church and the Driskill Memorial Cemetery. Presently, numerous descendants of Grancer Driskill continue to reside in close proximity to Driskill Mountain.

Trailhead

The trailhead is located behind the church and cemetery down a dirt road. Parking is at the church (do not attempt to drive down the dirt road as it is private property).

Trip Summary

The Driskill Mountain trail was easy and is perfect for beginners. The trail was pretty well marked all the way to the top. While there is no view at the top, it’s nice to be able to knock off a high point quickly. It is in the middle of nowhere, so be prepared to drive down backroads for a while.

There are two ways to reach the top: via the Driskill Trail or via the False Mountain Trail. We took the Driskill Trail to the top and the Flase Mountain Trail back down to make a loop.

After we parked, we walked down what looked to be a private dirt road until we got to a gate. There is a walk-through portion open for hikers. You ARE supposed to go through it.

We continued on the private dirt road until we got to an area where it looked like a trail shot off to the left. You will take that trail, which is Driskill Trail. When we were there, the sign for the trail was off into the trail and not easily seen from the road.

You’ll hike a short distance, and then you will come to yet another split. This is the Driskill Mountain Trail and False Mountain Trail split. Stay to the left to stay on Driskill Mountain Trail.

Reaching the Top

Once at the top of Driskill Mountain, you will see some benches, a high point sign, and a log book. We took our obligatory picture, signed the log book, and then did a little exploring to see if we could see a view anywhere.

There was a sign to an overlook. I assume it’s better to view in the fall and winter when there is no foliage on the trees.

Heading Back Down

Do not follow the blue blazes behind the High Point sign if you want to take the False Mountain Trail back down. The correct trail is just left of the Driskill Trail.

If you decide to take the False Mountain Trail back down, be prepared to navigate without maps as it is not well marked, and many areas are overgrown. We ended up somehow getting off the trail several times. I would suggest that beginners not do this trail and head back down the Driskill Mountain Trail instead.

Highpoint Stats

More Information

Getting There

From IH-20:

• Take exit 69 for LA-151 S toward Arcadia
• Turn South onto LA-151 S
• Continue onto N Hazel St
• Turn left onto LA-147 S/Jonesboro Rd
• Continue to follow LA-147 S
• Slight right onto LA-797
• Turn right onto LA-507 S
• Church Parking lot will be on the right

Red Tape

Keep in mind this is private property. There is no camping allowed. Be respectful and pack out what you pack in. Stay on the trail.

Parking Area

The parking area is in the church parking lot. The parking lot isn’t large, but even on a Sunday morning, we were the only ones there.

Video

Check out other state high points I have completed.

Disclaimer: These articles are here to serve others as a guide on their own outdoor & travel adventures. You use any advice given on this site at your own risk. Not all trails, attractions, and travels are safe for everyone. What works for me, may not work for you. Do your own research on gear and destinations before proceeding. Information is accurate at the time of posting and is subject to change at any time.