The best walks and hikes around Madison
21
hikers
8
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking around Madison, Mississippi, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has explored, mapped, and reviewed these trails, and we've curated this guide to save you the guesswork, pointing you straight to the routes worth your legs.
Hiking around Madison is defined by its accessible waterways…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
26.7km
06:55
150m
140m
If you're seeking a substantial and challenging hike along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, the Natchez Trace Parkway Alternative Multi-use Trail is a solid choice. This difficult 16.6-mile (26.7 km)…
11.8km
03:02
50m
50m
The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail: Yockanookany Section offers a rugged and diverse hiking experience, taking you through dense forests, open pastures, and wetlands. You'll navigate uneven terrain, with a…
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2
hikers
5.98km
01:33
40m
30m
The Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails offer a delightful, easy hiking experience through varied wooded terrain, even though they're built for bikes. You'll wander through dense forests, encounter rolling hills, and…
968m
00:15
0m
0m
The Simmons Arboretum loop offers a serene and accessible journey through a diverse 10-acre green space near Madison County. You'll wander under a lush tree canopy, traverse well-maintained paths, and…
8
hikers
4.62km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Madison
Tips from the Community
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 quite a few trail intersections in this tight-knit trail system, so it's best to have the route handy and read trail signs while you're riding. There are lots of bridges, berms, and flowy trails in the system. The trails were constructed in a way to be bike-specific, but they are open to foot-traffic as well, so be aware of other trail users.
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Even though they are labeled as biking trails, the Ridgeland Mountain Biking Trails are open to foot-traffic as well (just hike with the idea that bikes have the right-of-way on these trails). There are a lot of different trails and trail intersections in this tight-knit trail system, so it's best to have the route handy while you're hiking.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general terrain like for hiking around Madison?
Hiking around Madison features generally flat terrain with minimal elevation changes. The routes often traverse established trail systems, arboretum paths, and areas near the Ross Barnett Reservoir, making them suitable for easy walks.
How many hiking trails are available in the Madison area?
There are 5 hiking trails detailed in this guide for the Madison area, offering a range of options from short arboretum loops to longer excursions.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, most trails around Madison are rated as easy. For example, the Ridgeland Trails loop — Madison, Mississippi is an easy 3.7-mile path, and the Simmons Arboretum loop — Madison, Mississippi is a very short, easy 0.6-mile walk.
What is the longest hiking route available in Madison?
The longest hiking route is the Hiking loop from Ridgeland, which spans 7.1 miles (11.4 km) and is rated as moderate. This route also features the most elevation gain in the area.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Ross Barnett Reservoir?
Yes, the View of Ross Barnett Reservoir loop from Reservoir Overlook Center Area is a 2.4-mile easy hike that provides scenic views of the reservoir. Additionally, the View of Ross Barnett Reservoir is a notable viewpoint, and the View of Ross R Barnett Reservoir is another highlight in the area.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on hikes in Madison?
Hikers can explore arboretum paths, green spaces, and trails alongside the Ross Barnett Reservoir. The Simmons Arboretum is a specific highlight, offering a forested experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Madison?
Yes, several routes are loops. Examples include the Ridgeland Trails loop — Madison, Mississippi, the Simmons Arboretum loop — Madison, Mississippi, and the View of Ross Barnett Reservoir loop from Reservoir Overlook Center Area.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Madison?
More than 20 hikers have used komoot to explore Madison's varied terrain. While specific ratings are not available, the routes are popular among local hikers, with many enjoying the accessible outdoor experiences offered by the established trail systems and arboretum paths.
Are there any other attractions or points of interest near the hiking trails?
Beyond the hiking trails, you can find other points of interest such as the Ridgeland Mountain Biking Trails for cycling enthusiasts and the Chisha Foka Multiuse Path, which is another trail option in the vicinity.
What is the typical difficulty level of hikes in Madison?
Most hikes in Madison are rated as easy, characterized by flat terrain and minimal elevation changes. There is one moderate route, the Hiking loop from Ridgeland, which is longer and has more elevation gain.
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