Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Mississippi

Mississippi Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Mississippi.

By Updated

This guide covers 7+ hiking trails in Mississippi — Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail — Rocky Springs Section, Tuxachanie National Recreation Trail and Longleaf Trail (De Soto National Forest) top the list. Every recommendation carries its practical details: typical costs, the best time to visit, and what to know before you commit.

Mississippi is the birthplace of the blues, a land of mighty rivers, antebellum mansions, and some of the most soulful cooking in America. From the cotton fields of the Delta where Elvis Presley was born and B.B. King learned to play, to the white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast and the grand antebellum homes of Natchez, Mississippi offers visitors an authentic dive into Southern culture, music, and history.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail — Rocky Springs Section

    8.5 miles one-way (or do a shorter out-and-back)3-5 hoursMinimal (rolling hills, 200-300 ft elevation change)

  2. 2

    Tuxachanie National Recreation Trail

    23 miles one-way (backpacking); shorter day-hike sections available1-3 days full trail; 3-5 hours for day sectionsMinimal (coastal plain; maximum 150 ft)

  3. 3

    Longleaf Trail (De Soto National Forest)

    41 miles total (multiple loop options); accessible in 5-10 mile day sections2-5 hours for day sectionsGentle rolling hills (50-200 ft change)

  4. 4

    Old Trace Trail (Natchez Trace Parkway)

    Various sections: 2-10 miles1-4 hours depending on sectionMinimal (sunken road formation; below grade level)

  5. 5

    Bienville National Forest Trails

    Various loops 2-8 miles1-4 hoursGentle rolling terrain (100-300 ft changes)

  6. 6

    LeFleur's Bluff State Park Trail

    4 miles of trail loops1-2 hoursMinimal (Pearl River bluff, under 100 ft)

  7. 7

    Turpin Creek Trail (Clark Creek Natural Area)

    5 miles of trails3-4 hoursModerate (300-400 ft; multiple waterfalls)

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.

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