Take A Boardwalk Trail Through The Marshes Of Shepard State Park In Mississippi

We’ve found a beautiful boardwalk hike that might be the best of all nature trails in Mississippi – and it’s the Marshwalk Pier. Never heard of it? That’s because it’s still fairly new. However, it’s already made a name for itself. It's the longest pier of its kind in coastal Mississippi.

Opened to the public in April 2021, the Marshwalk Pier is one of the newest additions to Shepard State Park in Gautier.

The 1,100-foot-long pier is the handiwork of Cypress Environmental Services, LLC, a small, woman-owned business based out of Biloxi.

One of the best nature trails in Mississippi, the boardwalk hike takes visitors on an educational and scenic journey through the 395-acre park.

Definitely worth exploring, the park is steeped in history, beauty, and lore, thanks, in part, to its location on the Singing River.

The longest pier of its kind on the Gulf Coast, the Marshwalk zigs and zags over stretches of beautiful marshland as well as Lamotte Bayou.

From the pier’s position, you'll get close-up views of the marsh as well as the birds and other wildlife that call the area home.

You can do more than admire the surroundings, though.

You can learn about them, too, thanks to a series of informative panels that line the trail.

The Marshwalk has another perk: it includes lighting, which means you can enjoy it even after the sun goes down.

With more than 1,000 feet of great views, the Marshwalk is worth a visit on its own. However, its location in a state park is even more of a reason to visit, since it means you'll have access to lots of other amenities. For more information on this boardwalk hike as well as other park perks, check out the Shepard State Park website.

The Marshwalk is just one of the amazing nature trails in Mississippi. The Cypress Swamp Loop Trail is another. Also a boardwalk hike, this trail winds through a swamp, boasting lovely vistas along the way.