The Tanglefoot Trail

Running for 43.6 miles in the Mississippi Hills National Heritage Area, along the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Tanglefoot Trail is the longest Rails to Trails conversion in the state. Following an old railway line, this trail will take you and your pooch through three different counties, teaching you so much about Mississippi's history and heritage along the way.

The trail passes through six towns, with four of these being home to official trail “whistle stops”, meaning that they provide parking, restrooms, picnic tables and water fountains, as well as places to rest, eat and shop. In addition to being able to access the trail from each of these towns, there are also other entry points along the way by public roads, making it easy for you and Fido to tackle the trail in smaller sections if you would prefer.

The scenery that the Tanglefoot Trail showcases is beautifully diverse. In addition to mature forests, wetlands and meadows, you will also pass farmland and vegetation that is unique to the region, from cotton and soybean fields to kudzu vine-draped trees. You and your pup will also likely come across quite a bit of wildlife, from foxes and squirrels to deer and several native bird species.

In addition to nature, the trail also showcases the state's heritage with numerous historical sites. Check out Old Houlka, which is the oldest non-native settlement in Chickasaw County, as well as the historic town of Pontotoc, home to the Town Square Post Office and Museum, which depicts the first recorded Christian marriage in the country.

The majority of this trail is quite quiet and peaceful, and while there are a few road crossings along the way, most of these are rural roads, with only a couple of major roads. With a comfortable asphalt surface, plenty of shade, and gorgeous scenery, the Tanglefoot Trail is a walk that you and your pooch will really enjoy.