Fall Is The Perfect Time To Visit This Historic Mountain Town In Mississippi
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published October 26, 2021
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Between the cool, brisk temperatures and the colorful foliage, fall is the perfect time for an adventure. Lucky for you, we already did the leg work and found the perfect destination – Iuka. Located in the foothills of the Appalachians, the small town is brimming with history, charm, and natural beauty, particularly in autumn.
Founded in 1857 and built on the site of a Chickasaw village, Iuka is rich with history and steeped in culture.
Because of its location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, it’s especially stunning in the fall, when adorned in hues of red, orange, and yellow. And J.P. Coleman State Park is one of the best places to take in those hues.
The park offers all sorts of recreational opportunities – from hiking and camping to water-related activities. The Tennessee River, Pickwick Lake, and Cooper Falls, a 50-foot waterfall, are among the park’s biggest perks.
A long, interesting history is another feature of Mineral Springs Park. The springs for which the park is named were once believed to have healing powers and, because of such, sought out by people from across the U.S.
Mineral Springs Park isn’t the only place in Iuka that merges history and natural beauty, though. There’s also Woodall Mountain, which is just south of Iuka.
At 806 feet, it’s the highest point in the state – but that’s not its only claim to fame. Since 1862, it’s been known as “America’s bloodiest high point” since it’s the only state high point in the U.S. that’s doubled as a battleground.
Just outside of Iuka lies Tishomingo State Park. In addition to its towering rock formations, waterfalls, and whimsical swinging bridge, the park is revered as one of the best places in the state to view fall foliage.
