The best cycling routes in Mississippi
4.4
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Touring cycling in Mississippi offers diverse landscapes, from the flat coastal plains along the Gulf of Mexico to the rolling hills and hardwood forests of the state's interior. The region is characterized by its extensive river systems, including the iconic Mississippi River, and features like the Natchez Trace Parkway, which provides dedicated routes for cyclists. Terrain varies from paved scenic byways to multi-use trails, traversing wetlands, agricultural lands, and historic areas.
Best touring cycling routes in Mississippi
- The most popular touring cycling route is Natchez Trace Parkway Alternative Multi-use Trail, a 23.0 miles (37.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete. This route offers a dedicated cycling experience along a historic scenic byway.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Biloxi Bay Bridge and Boardwalk Loop, a moderate 25.1 miles (40.5 km) path. This route provides coastal views, crossing bridges and featuring boardwalk sections near the Gulf Coast.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Great River Road Bike Trail, a 41.2 miles (66.3 km) trail leading through landscapes alongside the Mississippi River, often completed in about 4 hours 28 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Mississippi is defined by its Gulf Coast barrier islands, the Mississippi River, and extensive hardwood forests, with routes offering options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Mississippi are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 160 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Mississippi's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
3.5
(2)
6
riders
37.0km
02:09
170m
170m
Cycle the Natchez Trace Parkway Alternative Multi-use Trail, a moderate 23.0-mile route through scenic, historically rich landscapes.
3
riders
40.5km
02:41
40m
40m
Cycle the moderate 25.1-mile Live Oak Bike Trail from Ocean Springs to Biloxi, enjoying coastal views and greenways.
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4
riders
61.1km
03:41
390m
390m
Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure with the Oxford to Hurricane Landing Public Use Area loop. This route spans 38.0 miles (61.1 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1283 feet (391 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 41 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll experience a varied landscape of lush forests and rolling hills, offering a good workout. A highlight of the journey is passing the Hurricane Landing Public Use Area, where you can enjoy scenic views overlooking Sardis Lake. The atmosphere is generally peaceful, perfect for a focused ride.
Before you set out, be aware that some parts of the loop include gravel sections. Specifically, you will encounter a 1.5-mile stretch on CR 317 that is unpaved. If you are using road-specific tires, you might want to consider this detail for your equipment choice. The Oxford area generally provides good infrastructure for cyclists, making it easy to access the starting point. Plan your ride for a time of day when you can best enjoy the lake views.
This loop is a popular choice for cyclists seeking a solid workout near Oxford, Mississippi. It stands out for its combination of diverse terrain and the scenic beauty of Sardis Lake. The route offers a chance to explore the natural environment of the region, characterized by its forests and gentle elevation changes. It's a great option if you are looking for a substantial ride with rewarding views.
1
riders
51.2km
02:55
160m
160m
This moderate 31.8-mile touring cycling loop around Ross R. Barnett Reservoir via Natchez Trace Parkway offers scenic views and light traffi
1
riders
48.2km
02:49
290m
290m
Cycle the Natchez Trace and Mississippi River Trail Loop, a moderate 29.9-mile route with 957 feet of gain through historic landscapes.
1
riders
41.2km
02:20
110m
110m
Cycle the moderate 25.6-mile (41.2 km) Underground Railroad Bicycle Route in Mississippi, exploring historical sites and scenic river valley
1
riders
39.7km
02:16
110m
110m
Cycle the Tanglefoot Trail: New Albany to Ecru Loop, a 24.7-mile moderate touring route through Mississippi's scenic rural landscape.
66.3km
04:28
40m
40m
Cycle the Great River Road Bike Trail, a 41.2-mile moderate route with scenic Mississippi River views and flat, paved sections.
5.0
(1)
1
riders
13.7km
00:46
10m
10m
Explore Pascagoula's history and coastal views on this easy 8.5-mile touring bike trail, passing landmarks like the Round Island Lighthouse.
44.4km
02:38
230m
230m
Cycle the moderate 27.6-mile Chautauqua Lake loop in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, through picturesque Chautauqua Park and past its 35-acre
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Tips from the Community
The Bridge of Sighs in Natchez has connected two sections of the Bluff Trail over Roth Hill Road since 2015. Reminiscent of a former wooden bridge, it offers sweeping views of the Mississippi River and the "Under-the-Hill" neighborhood. The atmosphere is particularly impressive at sunset. The bridge is part of the waterfront promenade and accessible at all times. It is illuminated in the evenings, ensuring it remains easily accessible even after dark.
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Chautauqua Lake is a small lake within Chautauqua Park. It is 35 acres surrounded by beautiful woodland. There is a visitor center, playground and restrooms.
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Great view of the Mississippi River. There is an area with seating that is off the road, so you can sit and enjoy the great view and tranquil surroundings.
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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 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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This park is built on a bluff at the edge of Natchez. As the park is elevated on the bluff, there are great views over the Mississippi River. There are many benches in the park to sit, relax and enjoy the view.
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The Bridge of Sighs is one of the best places to get a view of the MIssissippi River. It is a pedestrian bridge that stretches over Roth’s Hill Road in Natchez and was constructed in 2005. It is a replica of an old bridge that used to span this area that was constructed in the 19th century.
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The lighthouse was constructed in 1859. It originally stood on Round Island in the Mississippi Sound but was toppled by Hurricane Georges in 1998. In 2010, the base of the lighthouse and other parts that remained after the hurricane were moved to Pascagoula and restored.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Mississippi?
Komoot offers over 40 touring cycling routes across Mississippi. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 16 easy, 21 moderate, and 6 difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable path for every cyclist.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Mississippi?
Yes, Mississippi offers several routes suitable for families. The Historic Pascagoula Bike Trail is an easy, shorter option at 13.6 km, perfect for a relaxed family outing. Additionally, many sections of the Natchez Trace Parkway are known for their smooth pavement and minimal traffic, making them ideal for families.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on Mississippi's touring cycling routes?
Mississippi's routes offer diverse scenery. You can experience coastal views along the Biloxi Bay Bridge and Boardwalk Loop, historic landscapes and hardwood forests on the Natchez Trace Parkway Alternative Multi-use Trail, or riverine vistas along the Great River Road Bike Trail. The state's varied terrain includes everything from Gulf Coast beaches to rolling hills and cypress swamps.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Mississippi?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Oxford to Hurricane Landing Public Use Area loop offers a moderate 61 km ride. Another option is the Ross R. Barnett Reservoir loop via Natchez Trace Parkway, which is a 51 km moderate route.
What are some longer touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For those seeking longer rides, the Great River Road Bike Trail spans 66.3 km, offering extensive views alongside the Mississippi River. Another substantial option is the Oxford to Hurricane Landing Public Use Area loop at 61 km.
What kind of historical or natural attractions can I explore along the routes?
Mississippi's routes often pass by significant historical and natural sites. You can visit ancient Native American mounds like Pharr Mounds or Emerald Mound. The Natchez Trace and Mississippi River Trail Loop offers a blend of natural beauty and historical context. For unique natural features, consider exploring areas near Closest falls or the Black Creek National Recreation Trail.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Mississippi?
The touring cycling routes in Mississippi are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to historic parkways, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Are there any routes that combine the Natchez Trace with other trails?
Yes, the Natchez Trace and Mississippi River Trail Loop is a great example, combining sections of the iconic Natchez Trace with paths along the Mississippi River for a varied touring experience.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Mississippi?
The best time for touring cycling in Mississippi is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer milder temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful natural scenery, making for more comfortable rides. Summers can be very hot and humid, while winters are generally mild but can have occasional cold snaps.
Are there any routes that are less crowded or considered 'hidden gems'?
While popular routes like the Natchez Trace Parkway can attract many cyclists, exploring trails like the Tanglefoot Trail: New Albany to Ecru Loop or the Chautauqua Lake loop might offer a more serene experience. These routes provide beautiful scenery away from the busiest areas.
Can I find routes that are suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Mississippi has 16 easy touring cycling routes. The Historic Pascagoula Bike Trail is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a relatively flat and shorter distance. Many sections of the Longleaf Trace also provide gentle terrain suitable for those new to touring cycling.
Are there any routes that focus on historical significance?
Yes, the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route (Mississippi) offers a unique historical perspective, tracing paths related to the Underground Railroad. The Natchez Trace Parkway itself is a historic byway, rich with cultural and historical markers.
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