The best walks and hikes in Rankin County
33
hikers
14
hikes
Hikes in Rankin County Mississippi offer routes through a landscape defined by lush forests, expansive reservoirs, and historic parkways. The terrain is generally low-lying, with trails weaving through woodlands and along the shores of the 33,000-acre Ross Barnett Reservoir. This area provides a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities centered around its natural water features and well-maintained park systems.
Best hiking trails in Rankin County
- The most popular hiking route is Civil War Hill Trail loop — Roosevelt State Park,…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
1
hikers
1.77km
00:27
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
4.99km
01:17
30m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11.8km
03:02
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
636m
00:10
10m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
684m
00:10
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
3.67km
00:58
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
968m
00:15
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
4.62km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
3.70km
00:58
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Start of the civil war hill trail
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Great view point of the Ross E. Barnett Reservoir. While there are no benches or picnic tables, there is a large grass area that you can sit on to have a picnic or take a break.
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There are informational and education signs posted all throughout the hiking trails at Simmons Arboretum. The trails weave in and out of trees with several boardwalks and bridges on the trail. There are several interconnecting trails in the small trail system, so plan your route before you go.
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There is a great overlook of Ross R Barnett Reservoir from the parking area. This parking area is the southern side of the Natchez Trace Village Dam, and the lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing.
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Cypress Swamp is a leftover flood zone of the Pearl River that you can walk around at mile marker 122 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. The walking loop is mainly a boardwalk. There is a load of wildlife to see in this area, and there are several educational and information signs posted along the way.
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Roosevelt State Park has a load of recreational options and facilities. The camping, picnic, and hiking areas overlook Bienville National Forest and Roosevelt Lake. The Civil War Hill hiking loop is part of the newer trail system in the park. There are bridges at the major water crossings and informational signs at trailheads with obvious trail signage.
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This path is an alternative to the paved Natchez Trace road route. The path is crushed limestone and gravel and runs parallel to the Natchez Trace Parkway for 10 miles. The path runs through historic Choctaw homelands. Halfway through the path, there is an information cabin with public restrooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes in Rankin County?
Yes, the area offers several easy walks suitable for families. For a unique and very short experience, consider the Cypress Swamp loop — Natchez Trace Parkway. It's an accessible walk through a beautiful swampy landscape that is engaging for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many parks in the area are dog-friendly. Rankin Trails at the Quarry is a popular choice for dog owners, as it features a dedicated dog park alongside its trail network. Turtle Point Nature Trail is another well-regarded spot where locals often walk their dogs. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.
Are there any paved walking trails in Rankin County?
Yes, if you're looking for a paved surface, Flowood Nature Park is an excellent option. This highly-rated local park features well-maintained paved and marked trails through a 40-acre wooded area, making it ideal for a smooth walk or run.
What are the trail conditions like at Rankin Trails at the Quarry?
The trails at the Quarry Park offer a varied experience, primarily on dirt singletrack. You'll find everything from easy green trails to challenging black diamond routes with rock faces and drops. The terrain includes short, punchy climbs and fast, flowing descents, making it a favorite for both hikers and mountain bikers.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Absolutely. A great option for a short, scenic loop is the Simmons Arboretum loop — Madison, Mississippi. This easy walk is just under a kilometer and provides a pleasant circuit through the arboretum.
Where can I find a longer, more challenging hike?
For a more substantial hike, the Hiking loop from Ridgeland is a great choice. At over 11 kilometers, this moderate route offers a longer journey through the region's landscape and takes around three hours to complete.
Are there any hiking trails with waterfalls in the area?
The landscape in Rankin County is primarily defined by reservoirs, rivers, and swamps rather than significant elevation changes. As a result, prominent waterfalls are not a common feature on the local hiking trails.
What should I pack for a day hike in Rankin County?
For a day hike, be sure to bring plenty of water, especially during the hot and humid summer months. Lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are essential. It's also wise to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching while hiking?
Yes, the diverse habitats around the Ross Barnett Reservoir and along the Pearl River provide excellent birdwatching opportunities. Trails that pass through wetlands, like those in the Natchez Trace Parkway, and wooded areas such as LeFleur's Bluff State Park are particularly good spots to see local and migratory birds.
Is it free to access the hiking trails?
Many trails, such as those at Rankin Trails at the Quarry and along the Natchez Trace Parkway, are free to access. However, some parks like Roosevelt State Park may charge an entrance fee for vehicles. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's policy before you go.
Are there multi-use trails for both hiking and biking?
Yes, Rankin County has several multi-use trails. The Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail parallels the Natchez Trace Parkway and is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. Additionally, the extensive network at Rankin Trails at the Quarry is specifically designed for both hiking and mountain biking.
What are some popular places for hiking in Rankin County?
Locals and visitors enjoy a variety of spots for hiking. Some of the most popular include:
- Rankin Trails at the Quarry: A highly-regarded park with an extensive network of trails for hiking and mountain biking.
- Flowood Nature Park: A local favorite known for its beautiful, paved trails around a lake.
- LeFleur's Bluff State Park: A large, well-maintained park offering peaceful trails right in the middle of the city.
- Turtle Point Nature Trail: A charming and quiet trail perfect for a peaceful walk.
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