The best hiking trails in Mississippi

113 Hiking Trails

"Mississippi's trails enchant with historic charm, lush landscapes, and vibrant wildlife at every turn."

Mississippi offers a unique hiking experience, blending lush landscapes with rich history. Explore the serene Tishomingo State Park, where ancient rock formations and vibrant wildflowers create a picturesque backdrop. Wander through the Natchez Trace Parkway, a historic trail that whispers tales of Native American heritage. As you hike, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife and enjoy the tranquil beauty of cypress swamps and rolling hills. Mississippi's trails promise adventure and discovery at every turn.

Most popular trails

Medium

Longleaf Trace Trail

Forrest County, Mississippi · star 5.0 (8) · 65.2 km · Est. 2 day

Easy

Tanglefoot Trail

Union County, Mississippi · star 5.0 (3) · 70.3 km · Est. 2 day

Medium

Tuxachanie Trail

Stone County, Mississippi · star 4.0 (10) · 30.1 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

Medium

Black Creek Trail

Perry County, Mississippi · star 5.0 (8) · 57.1 km · Est. 2 day

Easy

Shockaloe Trail

Scott County, Mississippi · star 5.0 (6) · 34.7 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

Easy

Bigfoot Horse Trail

Stone County, Mississippi · star 5.0 (5) · 25.7 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

Easy

Rob Leake City Park Loop

Lee County, Mississippi · star 0.0 (0) · 678 m · Est. 8 min

Easy

North Trail

Grenada County, Mississippi · star 0.0 (0) · 928 m · Est. 11 min

Extra Difficult

Simmons Arboretum Loop

Madison County, Mississippi · star 0.0 (0) · 846 m · Est. 12 min

Medium

Bailey Woods Trail

Lafayette County, Mississippi · star 0.0 (0) · 1.8 km · Est. 26 min

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FAQs about hiking in Mississippi

What is the climate like for hiking in Mississippi?

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Mississippi's humid subtropical climate presents unique hiking conditions. Summers, from June to August, are quite hot and humid, ideal for waterside trails but potentially taxing for more demanding hikes. Winters are mild, offering decent hiking conditions, although cold snaps can occur.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for hiking. Spring showcases the state's blooming flora, while autumn presents beautiful fall colors.

Overall, spring and autumn are the best periods to hike in Mississippi, blending pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Prior to any excursion, check local weather forecasts and trail updates, perhaps using the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks website (https://www.weather.gov/jan/climate).

Do I need a permit to hike in Mississippi?

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Typically, hiking in Mississippi does not require permits. However, certain activities like camping or fishing in state parks may require them. It's recommended to verify with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mississippi/recarea/?recid=28829) or specific park authorities for accurate information.

Is wild camping allowed in Mississippi?

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Wild camping in Mississippi is permitted in designated areas within National Forests and certain state parks, subject to specific regulations. It's essential to verify local rules via the U.S. Forest Service website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/dispersed-camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in Mississippi?

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In case of an emergency while hiking in Mississippi, dial 911 to reach local authorities. The county sheriff's office often coordinates rescue efforts. While Mississippi doesn't have a dedicated mountain rescue team due to its topography, the National Association for Search & Rescue's website (https://nasar.org/) provides useful safety resources.

Are there dangerous plants in Mississippi?

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Mississippi's trails feature diverse ecosystems, with a variety of trees like oak, pine, and cypress, and blooming wildflowers in spring. Hikers should avoid poison ivy, common in wooded areas. For more information on local flora, refer to the Mississippi State University Extension Service website (http://extension.msstate.edu/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Mississippi?

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Mississippi's diverse wildlife includes deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. Insect-wise, hikers may encounter mosquitoes and ticks, so repellent is advised. For a comprehensive guide on Mississippi's wildlife and safety precautions- (https://www.eregulations.com/mississippi).

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