Our recent article, “10 Trails in Mississippi You Must Take If You Love The Outdoors,” received so much feedback we’ve decided to compile another list; however, this time the focus has been shifted to trails solely used for hiking. And just to keep things from getting repetitive, no trails from the first list have been included on this one (to see the original article, click here). Ready to get your hike on? Check out the list below for some of the best hiking spots in the state!
- Bear Creek Outcropping Trail, Tishomingo
Brad Kebodeaux /Flickr This trail, which is located in Tishomingo State Park, is rated as moderate on the difficulty scale, but with scenic views of the Appalachian foothills, huge rock formations, and fern-filled crevices that exist nowhere else in the state, it’s worth the extra effort.
- Natchez Trace Parkway Cypress Swamp Hike, near Canton
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr At .5 miles, this loop trail is quite short but, according to reviews, it shouldn’t be ignored. In addition to providing unique views of a baldcyress swamp, the trail includes detailed signage regarding the trees and the swamp’s role in the environment. The simplicity of this trail combined with the awesome learning experience it provides makes it the perfect family outing, especially when young children are involved.
- Fontainebleau Nature Trail, Ocean Springs
fws.gov Located in a national wildlife refuge, the Fountainbleau Nature Trail offers amazing views of both nature and wildlife, which can be enjoyed from the two observation platforms located within the area.
- Bonita Lakes Trail, Meridian
commons.wikimedia.org Made up of several trails, the Bonita Lake area is perfect for a range of skill levels. Covered in crushed gravel, the main trail is quite easy to traverse whereas the trial that circles the lake is perfect for those looking for a bit of a challenge. And if you’re planning on making a day of it, be sure to pack a lunch which you’ll be able to enjoy thanks to the benches and picnic tables that are in the area.
- Chewalla Lake Recreation Area Trail, Holly Springs
recreation.gov Following the shoreline of spring-fed Chewalla Lake, this is the trail for those searching for a tranquil experience. In addition to hiking, this recreation area offers an array of outdoor activities including fishing, water activities, and camping.
- Wall Doxey State Park, Holly Springs
mdwfp.com Centered around a 60-acre spring-fed lake, the two and a half mile trail at Wall Doxey offers beautiful views of waterfront scenery in addition to flora and fauna native to Mississippi.
- CCC Camp Trail, Tishomingo
MN Photos/Flickr Located in Tishomingo State Park, this three mile loop trail follows rocky outcrops and crosses several springs and streams before coming to an end at the Swinging Bridge.
- Lake Loop Trail in Marathon Lake Recreation Area, near Raleigh
smithcounty.ms.gov Managed by the Bienville National Forest, the Marathon Lake Recreation Area is comprised of a 50-acre lake, camping units, picnic tables, a swimming area, and, of course, Lake Loop Trail. The one and a half mile trail provides excellent scenic views and is perfect for all skill levels.
- Turkey Fork Recreation Area Trail, Laurel
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr Located in DeSoto National Forest, this recreation area provides for great hiking thanks in part to the amazing scenery. The hiking trails in the area are marked and maintained, making for a great experience.
- The Arkabutla Lake Education and Nature Center Trail (ARK) Trail, Hernando
desotogreenways.org This two-mile trail is made up of gently rolling hills with little elevation gain, meaning it’s ideal for any skill level. Located in a wildlife sanctuary, the trail affords exceptional views and includes extensive signage regarding area wildlife as well as tree identification markers.
Have you hiked any of these trails? If so, what did you think? If you have any trails to add to the list, please do so in the comments section below!
Brad Kebodeaux /Flickr
This trail, which is located in Tishomingo State Park, is rated as moderate on the difficulty scale, but with scenic views of the Appalachian foothills, huge rock formations, and fern-filled crevices that exist nowhere else in the state, it’s worth the extra effort.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
At .5 miles, this loop trail is quite short but, according to reviews, it shouldn’t be ignored. In addition to providing unique views of a baldcyress swamp, the trail includes detailed signage regarding the trees and the swamp’s role in the environment. The simplicity of this trail combined with the awesome learning experience it provides makes it the perfect family outing, especially when young children are involved.
fws.gov
Located in a national wildlife refuge, the Fountainbleau Nature Trail offers amazing views of both nature and wildlife, which can be enjoyed from the two observation platforms located within the area.
commons.wikimedia.org
Made up of several trails, the Bonita Lake area is perfect for a range of skill levels. Covered in crushed gravel, the main trail is quite easy to traverse whereas the trial that circles the lake is perfect for those looking for a bit of a challenge. And if you’re planning on making a day of it, be sure to pack a lunch which you’ll be able to enjoy thanks to the benches and picnic tables that are in the area.
recreation.gov
Following the shoreline of spring-fed Chewalla Lake, this is the trail for those searching for a tranquil experience. In addition to hiking, this recreation area offers an array of outdoor activities including fishing, water activities, and camping.
mdwfp.com
Centered around a 60-acre spring-fed lake, the two and a half mile trail at Wall Doxey offers beautiful views of waterfront scenery in addition to flora and fauna native to Mississippi.
MN Photos/Flickr
Located in Tishomingo State Park, this three mile loop trail follows rocky outcrops and crosses several springs and streams before coming to an end at the Swinging Bridge.
smithcounty.ms.gov
Managed by the Bienville National Forest, the Marathon Lake Recreation Area is comprised of a 50-acre lake, camping units, picnic tables, a swimming area, and, of course, Lake Loop Trail. The one and a half mile trail provides excellent scenic views and is perfect for all skill levels.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Located in DeSoto National Forest, this recreation area provides for great hiking thanks in part to the amazing scenery. The hiking trails in the area are marked and maintained, making for a great experience.
desotogreenways.org
This two-mile trail is made up of gently rolling hills with little elevation gain, meaning it’s ideal for any skill level. Located in a wildlife sanctuary, the trail affords exceptional views and includes extensive signage regarding area wildlife as well as tree identification markers.
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