This Scenic Mississippi Trail Is Even Better in the Winter

As someone with a deep love for the summer, I used to have a hard time finding the motivation to go walking on a trail or go for a hike during the winter to brace the cold, only to see barren branches and desolate landscapes stretch before me. 

But, as I’ve gotten older, I’ve seemed to embrace being out in nature even more in the winter, when the landscape seems to be in hibernation, as a way to rest, reflect, and reset. It’s comforting to find inspiration in nature, which is taking a breather just like we do. 

With winter strolls on the mind, the Bailey Woods Trail in Oxford, Mississippi, is beautiful this time of the year and has likely inspired many who have walked its path, including William Faulkner, the legendary American writer who lived in the historic Rowan Oak mansion located inside these woodlands. 

Since this trail is open to the public year-round, you can take a peaceful 20-minute winter walk around these woodlands to bask in the peace of the oaks, hickories, and sweetgum trees, and perhaps see the ground dusted with snow. This pedestrian-only trail sits on the 33 acres of land belonging to Rowan Oak, which leads from the University of Mississippi Museum all the way to the grandness of mansion itself. The seclusion and serenity of the trail sets the scene for a contemplative time in nature during the winter. You can stroll over the footbridge, and if you’re lucky, the creek that runs underneath might even be frozen over. 

On your next literary road trip, walk in Faulkner’s footsteps and see the woods which perhaps inspired a few of Faulkner’s pieces of work for yourself. With Rowan Oak's ideal location at the end of the trail, you can discover more about William Faulkner’s modified Greek Revival home for a small cash fee of $5 per person. Faulkner’s love of nature is evident in and around the grounds, and Faulkner even named the property after the peace and security of the rowan tree of Scotland and the strength and solitude of the live oak of America. In fact, as you walk around the Bailey Woods Trail, you’ll come across signs that explain the historical significance of the area, some of which are devoted to William Faulkner. 

Additionally, by visiting Bailey Woods Trail in the winter, you’ll be able to avoid the sticky, humid Mississippi heat and curb the insects as well. You might even see some wildlife prancing around the woods, such as rabbits, squirrels, and deer. If it’s snowed recently, bring along the kids so that they can play and throw around some snowballs. This path is also dog-friendly, however, as you walk, be cautious of uneven terrain due to the tree roots and multiple elevation changes throughout. 

Experience the scenic, wintery southern charm of the Bailey Woods Trail and take some time to reflect amidst the beauty of the woods. Would you break up with the winter blues and explore this trail yourself? For more seasonal travel recommendations, visit Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.