Normally, boardwalks are associated with the beach; however, that’s not always the case. In Mississippi, boardwalks can be found just about anywhere – from high in the treetops to deep in the woods. Ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime? These ten Mississippi boardwalks will lead you to some unforgettable places.
1. Sky Lake Wildlife Management Area, Belzoni
This wildlife management area features a 1,700’ boardwalk that is perfect for viewing wildlife as well as ancient bald cypress trees, some of which are more than a thousand years old and vary in size, with the biggest measuring 47’ in circumference and 70’ in height, making it one of the tallest in the state.
2. The Petrified Forest, Flora
The only one of its kind in this part of the country, Flora’s Petrified Forest has been millions of years in the making, and offers visitors the chance to get close up views of ancient trees that have been transformed into stone giants. Exploring this natural wonder is a breeze thanks to a self-guided nature trail, which includes many points of interest and informative markers.
3. Chautauqua Park, Crystal Springs
This historic park is made up of 74 acres of rolling hills, flowing springs, spring-fed creeks, and a 35-acre lake. Home to wading birds, waterfowl, hawks, owls, deer, turkey, and foxes, this park is perfect for wildlife viewing – all of which can be taken in from an elevated boardwalk, which offers a "squirrel’s eye" view of the beautiful surroundings.
4. Natchez Trace Parkway Cypress Swamp, milepost 122
Thanks to an elevated boardwalk, visitors can really take in one of the state’s most impressive natural wonders. Aside from providing unique views of a bald cypress swamp, the boardwalk trail includes detailed signage regarding the trees and the swamp’s role in the environment.
5. The Greenville Cypress Preserve, Greenville
Referred to as "a natural treasure in the Mississippi Delta," the Greenville Cypress Preserve spans 16 acres and features a diverse terrain that includes sloughs, an area of mixed woodland, and a meadow, which can all be easily viewed from the boardwalk that navigates the preserve or the on-site observation deck.
6. Tanglefoot Trail, New Albany to Houston
The longest of Mississippi’s Rails to Trails conversion, this trail spans a little over 43 miles and includes several boardwalks to help make the incredible journey a bit easier. In addition to a diverse landscape that includes fields, forests, meadows, and wetlands, the trail travels through several small, historic towns, making for a truly unique experience.
7. Crosby Arboretum, Picayune
Cross the boardwalks within this arboretum and you’ll be transported through a 104-acre fauna wonderland, filled with plants native to the area and informative signage to make sure visitors don’t miss a thing. Be sure to check out the arboretum throughout the year for special events, plant sales, and educational programs.
8. Blackland Prairie Trail, Tupelo
The Blackland Prairie Trail is part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and is located just north of Tupelo. The 4.2-mile trail is a point-to-point trail that is considered good for all skill levels. Opened year-round, the trail traverses a river and beautiful fields of prairie flowers as well as offers access to interesting sites, such as the Chickasaw Village.
9. Clear Springs Nature Trail at Sardis Dam, Roxie
Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the recreation area surrounding Sardis Lake is home to several different trails, including the Clear Springs Nature Trail. The loop trail runs along Sardis Lake and features a wooden boardwalk that takes visitors over a tupelo/bald cypress swamp.
10. Bluff Lake at Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, and Winston Counties
The cypress grove on Bluff Lake is located near Starkville and features a boardwalk, making for easy viewing and amazing photo-ops. The boardwalk at Bluff Lake is also a great spot for viewing fall foliage.
Have you visited any of the places listed above? What unique Mississippi boardwalk would you add to the list?
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