The places to hike in Mississippi are nearly as plentiful as restaurants revered for their perfectly fried catfish. With so many options it can be hard to discern between the most popular hikes in Mississippi and the best hikes in Mississippi, which are two different things. There are lots of destinations that boast some of the best hiking trails in Mississippi yet don’t get the attention they deserve. One such place is the Tallahala Wildlife Management Area. Visitors can enjoy a slew of outdoor activities, including a scenic lakeside hike.

Located in central Mississippi, the Tallahala WMA is an extension of the Bienville National Forest.
Tallahala WMA
Greg Dedeaux/Google
The WMA is rather sizeable. It spans four counties: Scott, Newton, Smith, and Jasper.
Within the WMA, there are a handful of campgrounds, including the Marathon Lake Campground.
Marathon Lake
Angela Johns/All Trails
Boasting beauty and seclusion, the campground is nestled in a heavily wooded area, surrounding the lovely Marathon Lake.
Marathon Lake Campground
Tony Garcia Jr./Google

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An angler’s paradise, the 50-acre lake is stocked with catfish, bass, crappie, and bream. But fishing is just one way to enjoy the lake – there are several others, including the Marathon Hiking Trail.
places to hike in Mississippi
Brandi W/All Trails
Rated as easy, it’s a 2.1-mile loop trail that usually takes just over 30 minutes to complete.
Marathon Hiking Trail
fs.usda.gov
Along the way, hikers are met with lovely lake views as well as colorful wildflowers and lush greenery. Wildlife sightings, particularly birds, are also common.
Marathon Lake Campground
Brandi W/All Trails
In addition to a serene lake and one of the best hikes in Mississippi, the Marathon Lake Campground features nearly three dozen campsites (with water and electric hook-ups), a boat ramp, swimming area, bath houses with showers, picnic tables, and picnic shelters.
Marathon Lake
Angela Johns/All Trails

One look at all it has to offer and it’s clear that Tallahala WMA’s obscure reputation is in no way a testament to its charm. The fact that it’s one of the most overlooked places to hike in Mississippi just makes it one of the state’s best-kept secrets – and it’s one secret you’ll want to be in on!

Remember, Marathon Lake is in the Tallahala WMA. Have any questions about Marathon Lake? Contact Tallahala WMA at (601) 739-3671.

After hiking along Marathon Lake continue your water-inspired fun at the nearby Roosevelt State Park. With a 150-acre lake, pool, and waterslide, it’s the perfect place for some fun on the water.

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