8 Low-Key Hikes In Mississippi With Amazing Payoffs
By Daniella DiRienzo|Updated on April 08, 2022(Originally published April 03, 2022)
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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.
A hike doesn’t have to involve a lot of effort. In fact, there are some amazing hikes in the Magnolia State that are super short, really easy to navigate, or both. These hikes are great for beginner hikers or family hikes with little kids. Even better, several of these simple hikes lead to some great locales, which include everything from scenic spots to historic sites. Read on to discover eight of our favorite low-key hikes with amazing payoffs and stunning views. These easy hikes in Mississippi will get you out the door and exploring our great state!
This trail is situated on the Natchez Trace (milepost 266), just north of Tupelo. At 12.5 miles (round trip), it’s a bit longer, but it’s extremely easy to traverse, making it perfect for less experienced hikers in your group. In addition to a low difficulty level, this kid-friendly hike around Tupelo includes scenic river views, fields of wildflowers, and access to interesting sites, such as the Chickasaw Village. We love the fun features like bridges, boardwalks, and more! It makes for a wonderful stroll during a cool part of the day.
2. Cypress Swamp Loop Trail
Cypress Swamp, Natchez Trace Pkwy, Canton, MS 39046, USA
Just as the name implies, this trail leads right through a cypress swamp. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the loop trail is rated "easy" and can be completed in about 20 minutes. Although, you’ll probably want to give yourself more time to explore the enchanting surroundings. The trailhead is located at milepost 122 at the Natchez Trace State Park. This is a nice easy hike in Mississippi that the whole family will enjoy. There are so many fun things to see along the way.
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3. Beaver Dam Trail
Beaver Dam Trail, Beaver Dm Trl, Mississippi 39759, USA
Located in the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, this point-to-point trail runs one mile each way, making for a 2-mile trip. The popular path winds through bottomland hardwood forest, following the bank of Oktoc Creek. Keep your eyes peeled for the various species of wildlife that call the area home, including blue herons, wood ducks, and deer. Check out the AllTrails website to view a map of the trail. This is a popular, easy hike in Mississippi, and you’ll find that everyone is enchanted with the landscape.
Located in Tishomingo State Park, this 3-mile loop trail follows rocky outcrops and crosses several pristine springs and streams. It comes to an end at an enchanting swinging bridge, where you can stop for a moment and take in the beautiful surroundings. The swinging bridge is a blast to cross, and always a favorite with the young ones in the group. We love this scenic hike in Mississippi for all of the gorgeous views you’ll get as you stroll along.
Tishomingo State Park is located at 105 Co Rd. 90, Tishomingo, MS 38873.
With varying elevations, this trail is rated as "medium" in terms of difficulty, but at just 0.43 miles, it’s still completely doable for less-experienced hikers. And you’ll be glad you put in the effort since the three-tiered trail provides exceptional views of the Mighty Mississippi. It comes to an end in the city’s historic district, Under-The-Hill, where you’ll find several restaurants, so you can refuel before your journey back. The trailhead is located at the corner of Madison and Learned Roads.
You’ll love this fun trail with gorgeous views on this easy hike in Mississippi. This is a great one to do in the early afternoon so you can grab lunch along the way!
6. Little Mountain Trail
Jeff Busby Park, 305 Estes Rd, Ackerman, MS 39735, USA
Follow this easy-to-navigate trail straight to the top of Little Mountain — the second highest point in Mississippi. It’s rated as "easy" and under a mile, so it’s a great trek for all ages. Have your camera ready, because, on a clear day, visibility spans 20 miles. This scenic hike in Mississippi is one of the best hikes around, and perfect to do with the whole family. The trail is located in Jeff Busby Park, which can be found at milepost 193.1 on the Natchez Trace.
7. Potkopinu Trail
Potkopinu Trail, Old Natchez Trace, Fayette, MS, MS-553, Fayette, MS 39069, USA
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Natchez Trace was a vital pathway for Native Americans, explorers, and traders. With thousands of travelers walking on the trail, it eventually eroded, resulting in a "sunken" appearance. Today, only parts of the original Trace are still accessible and this trail includes the longest portion. It’s three miles each way (6-mile round trip), but don’t let the length put you off. The trail is relatively flat, making for an easy trek. It’s one of the best hikes in Mississippi and is a fast favorite of everyone who hikes it. It’s quiet and peaceful, perfect for an afternoon adventure.
The trailhead is located at milepost 20 on the Natchez Trace.
8. Bailey’s Woods Hiking Trail
University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
Combining Oxford’s heritage and scenic beauty, this 0.25-mile trail will take you from the Ole Miss campus through the beautiful greenery of Bailey’s woods, before ending at Rowan Oak, the home of award-winning author William Faulkner. Touring the grounds of the famous home is free, while admission to the house will cost you a small fee. To view the trail map, check out the Bailey Wood Trail map This is an easy, kid-friendly hike in Mississippi that’s a beautiful one to explore Oxford’s nearby forest.
So, have you ever hiked one of these easy hikes in Mississippi? Do you have a short and easy hike to add to this great list of gems? Tell us in the comments section!
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More to Explore
Easy Hikes In Mississippi
Megan McDonald|April 08, 2022
Are there a lot of hiking trails in Mississippi?
There are more than 208 trails for you to explore in Mississippi, each one seemingly better then the last. From streams, to beautiful forest greenery, there’s something to see everywhere you hike.
What's the best hike in Mississippi?
One of the top-rated hikes in Mississippi is the Clark Creek Primitive Area, located in the Clark Creek Natural Area. It’s an easy 4.3-mile loop and is a popular trail that brings hikers back again and again.
