The Rigolets is a coastal tidal pass connecting Lake Pontchartrain to Lake Borgne and the Gulf of Mexico, presenting an intermediate to advanced paddling environment. The primary launch point for exploring this area is the public boat ramp at Fort Pike on the New Orleans side, specifically the now-defunct marina. Another noted launch is Rigolets Bridge North, a public boat ramp on Lake Pontchartrain near Slidell, which offers calm, flat water suitable for beginners, though this provides access to the lake rather than the pass itself. Paddling the Rigolets requires careful planning around the tides, as the movement of a large volume of water through the narrow channels creates significant currents. A typical route from Fort Pike through St. Catherine Pass and the Rigolets is 13-14 miles, and paddlers should expect to be paddling against the flow of the tide for some portion of any trip. The area is exposed, and conditions can become rough, especially with wind. The water body is a coastal saltwater marsh, and the recommended paddling season is year-round, though morning hours often offer the calmest conditions. Facilities are limited to the basic amenities at launch sites, such as parking and boat ramps. The experience is defined by its open, marshy scenery and the physical challenge of navigating tidal flows in an expansive coastal landscape.