Mississippi is brimming with historical sites and opportunities for outdoor fun. So, we decided why not combine the two? And that’s where this list comes in. After doing a bit of digging around, we found some hiking trails that lead straight to incredible sites from the past. Take a look:
1. Potkopinu Trail
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Natchez Trace was a vital pathway for Native Americans, explorers, and traders. With thousands of travelers walking along the trail, it eventually eroded, resulting in a "sunken" appearance. As of today, only parts of the original trail are still accessible and you’ll find the longest potion of the sunken Trace at the Potkopinu Trail. Loaded with history and beautiful scenery, the 3-mile trail has some embankments over 25 feet high! For more information, click here.
2. Blackland Prairie Trail
Located just north of Tupelo, this 4.2-mile point-to-point trail is suitable for all skill levels. In addition to beautiful fields of wild flowers, the popular trail leads to the Chickasaw Village Site. The site includes a ½-mile interpretive trail, which features signage that identifies plants and their uses by American Indians. For more information, click here.
3. Rocky Springs Trail
If hiking to a ghost town sounds like your idea of a good time, this trail is for you. The trek begins at the Rocky Springs Campground, where you’ll find several open trails. One of the easiest, a short loop-to-loop trail, leads straight to the ghost town of Rocky Springs. All that’s left of the once flourishing community is a church, cemetery, post office safe, and cistern – making for one unforgettable hike. For more information, click here.
4. Bailey’s Woods/Rowan Oak Hiking Trail
Combining Oxford’s heritage and scenic beauty, this ¼-mile trail will take you from the University of Mississippi 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 house admission will cost you $5. For more information, click
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5. Dunn’s Falls Hiking Trail
The perfect combination of beauty and history, this trail includes an overlook that provides one-of-a-kind views of the state’s tallest waterfall, as well as a mill that dates back to the 1800s. Step inside the mill and get a glimpse at the tools that went into running the 19th century mill. Located within Dunn’s Falls Water Park, primitive and developed camp sites are available, so you can turn your hike into an overnight adventure. For more information, click here.
6. CCC Camp Trail
Rather than lead to an incredible piece of history, this trail begins with one. Located in Tishomingo State park, the 3-mile trail starts at a cabin that dates back to the 1800s. After spending some time exploring the cabin, follow the scenic path along rocky outcrops and over pristine streams. For more information, click here.
7. Possum Walk Trail
One of the state’s best history-infused hikes, the Possum Walk Trail guides visitors through the deserted communities of Possum Walk and Logtown. Interpretive signs fill the area, providing information on the towns of yesteryear as well as plants and animals native to the area. Since the terrain is relatively flat, this trail is considered fairly easy and suitable for people of all ages. For more information, click here.
Ever visited any of these historic locales? Have another historic hike to add to this list? Tell us in the comments section!
Looking for another hike to add to your bucket list? Check out "The Riverside Trail In Mississippi With Breahtaking Views You’ll Want To Explore."
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