5 Beautiful Scenic Hikes in Mississippi

 5 Beautiful Scenic Hikes in Mississippi

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Getting out and being active in nature is one of the best things a person can do to stay fit. Hiking is an activity that's both relaxing and challenging, and it's the perfect opportunity to unplug for the day. Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful places to hike in Mississippi. Here are our five favorite spots. 

1. Shockaloe Trail at Bienville National Forest

Shockaloe Trail in the Bienville National Forest is the longest single-loop hiking trail in the state. The trail is nearly 23 miles, although it crosses service roads, allowing you to shorten the loop if you prefer. Be aware that Shockaloe is also used as a horse trail. 

2. Shepard State Park

The campgrounds at Shepard State Park are the perfect place to get away and enjoy nature. The park offers eight miles of trails that sprawl along the grounds, giving campers the opportunity to explore the land, seeing everything from beautiful wetlands to awe-inspiring oaks.

3. Marathon Lake Recreation Area

The Marathon Lake Recreation Area is a quiet campground near Raleigh. The lake is stocked full of fish and there are plenty of camping grounds, so you might just decide to stay the night and hike the short trails more than once!

4. Fontainebleau Nature Trail

Fontainebleau Nature Trail is made up of two paths, a .75-mile loop and a half-mile there-and-back trail that extends past the loop. Visitors will enjoy beautiful bayou hiking located in the Mississippi Sandhill Crane National Wildlife Refuge. There's even an overlook to observe Davis Bayou!

5. Arkabutla Lake Education and Nature Center Trail ARK)

At less than two miles, the Arkabutla Lake Education and Nature Center Trail (ARK) is an easy hike that the whole family can enjoy. These woodland walking trails take about an hour to navigate and offer beautiful views of Arkabutla Lake along with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings!