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Nature|Hiking

Climb A Bluff And Ogle An Old River Channel On This Fairy Tale Trail In Mississippi

Published Sep 6, 2022

Written by 

Daniella DiRienzo

Real life isn’t exactly a fairy tale. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a taste of the enchanted life. You simply have to know where to look, and it just so happens, we do! There are a set of hiking trails in Columbus, Mississippi that boasts magical features and delightful scenery. As soon as you set out on these trails, you’re sure to feel as if you’ve stepped onto the pages of your favorite fairy tale.

Nestled in the woodlands of east central Mississippi, Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center is home to some of the best and most enchanting hiking trails in Columbus.

Sign for Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center, surrounded by trees, with a stone base and a gravel road nearby.
visitcolumbusms.org

Managed by the Mississippi University for Women, Plymouth Bluff provides the perfect setting for education and recreation.

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Two people by a wooden fence overlooking a serene pond surrounded by trees. One sits on the fence, the other leans against it.
Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center/Facebook

The 190-acre facility offers everything from retreats and workshops to educational programs.

A pathway lined with pink coneflowers leads to a building with a sloped roof and greenery surrounding it.
Tre Robinson/Google

You don’t have to attend an event to take advantage of Plymouth Bluff, though. The grounds are open to the public and feature 4 miles of nature trails for easy exploration.

A serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with a wooden fence along the path. Reflections on the water.
Bill Loller/All Trails

All in all, there are five trails: the Lake Trail, Bluff Trail, Old Channel Trail, River Trail, and Scout Trail.

Signpost indicating Howard T. Williams Scout Trail and River Trail, with caution about slippery steps and bridges when wet.
Deborah Parr/All Trails

Boasting a wealth of magically scenic views, the trails meander through a variety of habitats. In addition to stretches of floodplain and upland woods, portions of the trail run along a roughly 70-foot bluff.

A serene wetland scene with tall trees surrounded by green duckweed covering the water's surface.
Bill Loller/All Trails

Some of the best sights can be found atop the bluff, which affords a great view of the old Tombigbee River channel below.

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A sign on a wooden fence overlooking a river surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center/Facebook

Several footbridges dot the trails, only adding to the trails’ fairytale-like vibes.

A dense forest scene featuring tall trees with sprawling branches and lush green foliage.
Eric Hill/All Trails

Footbridges aren’t the only man-made feature found along the trails in Plymouth Bluff, though.

A wooden bridge crosses a small stream in a forested area with trees and fallen leaves. Steps lead up a nearby path.
Matthew Hinton/Google

There is also a lot of signage, which provides information on native plants as well as area history.

Sign about Old Plymouth Town, detailing its history and significance, surrounded by greenery.
Taylor Collins/All Trails

So, what do you think? Are you ready to embark on an enchanting adventure along these hiking trails in Columbus? For more information, call Plymouth Bluff Environmental Center at (662) 329-7126. You can also visit the Mississippi University for Women website.

These hiking trails in Columbus aren't the only reason to visit the city. You'll find plenty to do in Columbus, which has been dubbed Mississippi's best-kept secret.

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Nature|Hiking

The Nearly Free Attraction Hiding in a Mississippi Park Is a Must-Visit

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Clark Creek Improved Trail in Mississippi, where waterfalls and lush forests offer a serene escape for hikers of all levels.

Published Oct 9, 2024

Written by 

Megan Todaro

You know what they say - the best things in life are free, and this rings especially true for waterfalls! The Clark Creek Improved Trail near Woodville, Mississippi, is an incredible hike, clocking in at less than three miles. But the highlight of this nearly free hike is the waterfall feature collapsing into a pool below. Tucked away in the Clark Creek Nature Area, come take a journey with us through this spectacular pathway, leading to a cascade that is worth the entire trek.

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A serene natural setting featuring a small waterfall cascading into a calm pool surrounded by rocky terrain and greenery.
Alltrails Angelica Morrell

Clark Creek Improved Trail, located in southwestern Mississippi, is an enjoyable hiking destination known for its stunning waterfalls and rich natural scenery. The trail offers a well-maintained, accessible route for hikers of all experience levels. It features gravel paths, wooden bridges, and stairways that make navigating the diverse terrain easier, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the area’s beauty.

Keep in mind there are over 50 waterfalls scattered throughout the area, varying in size and flow. Bring a camera, especially after an intense rainfall!

A serene forest scene featuring a small waterfall cascading over rocks into a sandy area surrounded by greenery.
Alltrails Robin Fischer

At 2.6 miles, the trail can typically be completed in 2-3 hours, depending on how long hikers linger at the scenic spots. The route includes moderate inclines and some elevation changes, but it is suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, visitors will likely encounter local wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and various bird species, adding to the trail’s appeal.

The trailhead offers parking for a small fee, along with picnic areas for those who want to enjoy a meal outdoors. Hikers should be prepared with water, sunscreen, and bug spray, especially during Mississippi’s warmer months. The fee is based on the honor system, so make sure you have cash in single bills to add to the fee box!

Wooden staircase with multiple levels, surrounded by lush green trees and rocky terrain.
Alltrails Glenn Naquin Jr.

Clark Creek Improved Trail is a hidden gem that combines natural beauty with accessible outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Mississippi’s great outdoors.

A small waterfall cascades into a rocky pool, surrounded by lush greenery and trees in a serene natural setting.
Alltrails Sarahbelle Juneau

Have you ever visited the Clark Creek Improved Trail? What was your experience like? Sound off in the comments section!

Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way, you can get even more information before you start your journey.

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Nature|Hiking

Hike The Brandon Quarry Trails in Mississippi for an Unforgettable Adventure

This hiking trail in Mississippi is great for trail runners, walkers, and mountain bikers.

Published Sep 30, 2024

Written by 

Jackie Sutherlin

Fall is my favorite time of year to hit the hiking trails in Mississippi. The bugs are at bay, the air is crisp, and the humidity doesn’t make you feel like you're swimming through the air. One hiking trail in Mississippi that you’re sure to love is found over in Brandon. 

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Brandon is one of those little big towns that appeal to folks from all walks of life. It’s less than 15 miles from Jackson, yet even with a population of over 20,000, it still maintains that small-town charm that we love so much. One of my favorite things to do in Brandon is to explore the Brandon Quarry Trails.

A sunbeam filters through trees beside a rocky path, surrounded by greenery and fallen leaves.
Michael Russell/AllTrails

Overall, the loop trail clocks in at about 3.5 miles. It’s generally an easy trail to tackle either on foot or with a mountain bike, but an AllTrails + account doesn’t hurt. If you plan on taking any of the "offshoots" I'd certainly recommend the AllTrails Pro account. In that same vein, I'd also recommend wearing pants on this trail because there have been reports of poison ivy. Most of the trail is wide enough to not have to worry about it, but there can be some parts where the trail gets narrow.

There is a decent-sized parking lot, and I can’t say I’ve ever seen it full. In fact, if you head over during the week, you’re likely to find the place all to yourself! 

A serene forest scene with tall trees, dappled sunlight, and a winding dirt path through lush greenery.
Michael Russell/AllTrails

This scenic little loop trail is ideal for trail runners. Since it’s so close to Jackson, it’s the perfect spot to get in a little nature run without having to drive too far. 

A serene landscape featuring a pond, a small wooden bridge, and a sunset behind trees, casting a warm glow.
Reece Johnson/AllTrails

The trail system is relatively new; it’s only a few years old. The community is continuously making improvements to this area, including adding new benches and docks to overlook the quarries. Taking a minute to sit back and enjoy the views is a must, but keep in mind this is Mississippi, and you’re near stagnant water—the mosquitos can be bothersome if there is no wind!

Pro tip: I wouldn’t recommend hiking this trail in Mississippi after a storm. The trail can easily become a muddy mess after it rains. But then again, that can be a fun time to get dirty with a mountain bike!

Whats your favorite hiking trail in Mississippi? Let us know in the comments below!

Read on to discover some of the best hiking trails in Mississippi.

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