Posted in Mississippi
February 14, 2019
10 Out-of-This-World Hikes In Mississippi That Lead To Fairytale Foot Bridges
There are a ton of great hiking trails in Mississippi. And some of these trails include bridges, making them a bit more practical…and magical. In fact, some of the best trails in the state feature a bridge of some sort. Need proof? Read on for 10 out-of-this-world hikes that require you to cross a bridge or two.
Please note, Cypress Swamp Loop Trail is temporarily closed.
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Probably the closest you’ll ever get to walking on water, the Coldwater River once flowed over the area that now makes up this trail. Rated as easy, the 1-mile trail is feasible for just about anyone and definitely worth the trek. Aside from being lined with informative panels on the history of the Arkabutla community, the redirection of the Coldwater River, and native plants and wildlife, the trail also includes a beautiful azalea garden. The trail is located southwest of Hernando, MS on Highway 301 just below the Arkabutla Lake dam on the south side of the spillway.
Combining Oxford’s heritage and scenic beauty, this ¼-mile trail will take you from the Ole Miss campus through the beautiful greenery of Bailey’s woods, before ending at Rowan Oak, the home of award-winning author William Faulkner. Touring the grounds of the famous home is free, while admission to the house will cost you $5. The North End Trail Entrance is located at the Ole Miss campus (near the University Museum) and the South End Trail Entrance is at Rowan Oak.
Though not a trail per se, the Greenville Cypress Preserves is too good not to mention. Referred to as "a natural treasure in the Mississippi Delta," the preserve spans 16 acres and features a diverse terrain that includes sloughs, an area of mixed woodland, and a meadow. Even better, it can all be easily viewed from the boardwalk that navigates the preserve or the on-site observation deck. The preserve is located at Cypress Ln, Greenville, MS 38701.
Follow this easy-to-navigate trail straight to the top of Little Mountain — the 2nd highest point in Mississippi. It’s rated as "easy" and under a mile, so it’s a great trek for all ages. Have your camera ready, because on a clear day, visibility spans 20 miles. The trail is located in Jeff Busby Park, which can be found at milepost 193.1 on the Natchez Trace.
Encompassing 29 acres, the Depot Creek Greenway includes an improved hiking trail, which is perfect for exploring the area and observing wildlife in its native habitat. Both fun and educational, the path is lined with a series of signs that feature pictures and facts about the variety of wildlife that live in the area. The trial is located at Main St. and Depot St., Lucedale, MS 39452.
Located in Tishomingo State Park, this 3-mile loop trail follows rocky outcrops and crosses several pristine springs and streams. It comes to an end at an enchanting swinging bridge, where you can stop for a moment and take in the beautiful surroundings. Tishomingo State Park is located at 105 Co Rd. 90, Tishomingo, MS 38873.
Nestled in Chautauqua Park, this 1,500’ boardwalk zigzags through the tops of trees and crosses a trickling stream, before leading to Chautauqua Spring House, a structure that shelters the spring, which once supplied drinking water to the area. The park also has another trail, the Trail of Tranquility, which is worth checking out. Perfect for a laid-back stroll, the picturesque path will lead you through a wooded area to a small stream that runs along the northern edge of the park. Get to Chautauqua Park by taking exit 72 on I-55, drive east to Highway 51, then turn right into the park’s entrance, which is about one mile ahead.
With trails that range from one to 11 miles, Clear Springs Recreation Area is perfect for serene strolls, strenuous hikes, and everything in between. Hikers of all skill levels will enjoy the Clear Springs Loop Trail, which spans just one mile and circles the beautiful spring-fed lake for which the recreation area is named. The recreation area is located at Clear Springs Road (County Road 104), Roxie, MS 39661.
This trail is situated on the Natchez Trace (milepost 266), just north of Tupelo. At 12.5 miles (round trip), it’s a bit longer, but it’s extremely easy to traverse, making it perfect for less experienced hikers. In addition to a low difficulty level, the trail includes scenic river views, fields of wildflowers, and access to interesting sites, such as the Chickasaw Village.
Just as the name implies, this trail leads right through a cypress swamp. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the loop trail is rated "easy" and can be completed in about 20 minutes. Although, you’ll probably want to give yourself more time to explore the enchanting surroundings. The trailhead is located at milepost 122 on the Natchez Trace.
So, ever hiked any of these trails? Did we forget your favorite? Tell us in the comments section.
These aren’t the only noteworthy trails in the state. Click here to read about one with a destination as incredible as the hike itself.
