Discover the beauty of the Natchez Trace Parkway in Ridgeland, MS, on scenic drives, hiking trails, cycling routes, and outdoor adventures with Explore Ridgeland
Spanning 444 miles from the Appalachian foothills of Tennessee down to the Mississippi River, the Natchez Trace Parkway provides an incredible experience. Heralded as a haven of biodiversity, this one-of-a-kind parkway traverses various ecosystems featuring marvels of nature. In addition to the natural wonders, 10,000 years of history are rooted throughout the parkway. Nestled in the heart of Mississippi is Ridgeland, a center of culture commemorating the past and celebrating the present of the local history found along the Natchez Trace.
Explore Ridgeland promotes the area’s history and abundant outdoor adventures along the parkway. Picturesque views and a deep history along its many twists and turns make exploring the Natchez Trace Parkway in Ridgeland a one-of-a-kind experience.
Make your reunion an unforgettable one—learn how Ridgeland, Mississippi, mixes culture and fun today.
Scenic Drives on the Natchez Trace Parkway in Ridgeland
From miles of yellow-lined asphalt to winding forest trails, the long stretch of the Natchez Trace Parkway in Ridgeland makes for one of the most scenic drives in Mississippi. Whether you prefer to watch the stunning landscapes pass by as you cruise down the by way or want to traverse the natural beauty up close, there are plenty of Ridgeland attractions to visit along the way.
Milepost 105.6 marks one of the best outdoor adventures in Ridgeland: the Barnett Reservoir Overlook (The Rez). Home to local wildlife and miles of paved pathways, there is an abundance of nature and history to explore.
If you are looking for the perfect place to stop and have lunch, you can’t beat Milepost 122.6 River Bend. Glimpse the slow-flowing bend in the Pearl River as it deposits into the Barnett Reservoir at one of the site’s many picnic tables.
Want to experience the beauty of local flora and art? The Ridgeland Wildflower Field and Art Park is the place to be. Walk through a three-acre trail featuring a vibrant wildflower garden and up-cycled sculptures.
Ridgeland is a charming city to visit year-round, although the best time to visit is spring or summer to get the full experience of the Natchez Trace activities. Regardless of your chosen season, Ridgeland tourism strives to be accessible to all adventurers. Learn more about Ridgeland visitor’s accessibility and plan your visit ahead of time at Explore Ridgeland.
Outdoor adventures abound along the Chisha Foka Trail in Ridgeland, Mississippi
Outdoor Adventures in Ridgeland
Ridgeland is known as Mississippi’s premier bicycle destination for its ample resources and great cycling options on the Natchez Trace Parkway. The Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail makes for one of the best Natchez Trace activities for cyclists in Ridgeland. The 10-mile paved trail boasts everything from trail rest stops and visitor centers to a bike repair station and many striking natural sites.
If you are planning to explore Ridgeland on your bike, there is no better time to come than May for their annual spring cycling event. Featuring multiple route lengths, a bike giveaway raffle, and a post-ride meal, the event is exciting for riders and spectators alike. Join hundreds of cyclists and explore the charm of Ridgeland on The Natchez Trace Century Ride.
The hiking trails in Ridgeland are arguably the most relaxing way to enjoy nature. With irresistible views and historical landmarks abound, choosing where to start your outdoor adventures in Ridgeland is the most challenging part.
The Chisha-Foka Multi-Use Trail offers eight access points along its 10-mile stretch, giving visitors the option to experience as little or as much of the path as they want. This winding wooded trail offers a peaceful walking environment with slight elevation changes through gently rolling hills.
Just northeast of the Barnett Reservoir at Milepost 122 is Cypress Swamp. Featuring a short hike across wooden footbridges and through swampland that was once part of the Pearl River. This is an ideal trail for a short, easy walk with the family. And if you’re lucky (and quiet), you might even catch a glimpse of an alligator or two peeking above the grassy, green swamp.
If you plan to visit Ridgeland in the warmer months, your trip won’t be complete without visiting the local lake. Just a short car or bike ride from downtown is one of the best Ridgeland attractions: the 33,000-acre lake at the Barnett Reservoir. As one of Mississippi’s largest lakes and recreational centers, there are plenty of ways to have fun out on the waters of the Rez. Catch largemouth bass, crappie, bream, catfish, and more at one of the fishing piers. Bring your boat for a day of water skiing and inner tubing or rent a pontoon boat at Main Harbor Marina. Or idly paddle the freshwaters on a kayak or paddleboard.
Elevate your gathering—uncover Ridgeland’s hidden gems and plan a memorable trip.
Outdoor attractions in Ridgeland, Mississippi, include numerous parks and water activities
Cultural and Natural Attractions Along the Parkway
Deeply rooted alongside the trees lining the Natchez Trace Parkway in Ridgeland is the colorful history of the region it weaves through. As one of the oldest transportation routes in North America, the parkway is a beautiful balance of natural environments and cultural enrichments.
Walk in the footsteps of historical figures of America’s past along the Old Natchez Trace segment at Milepost 104.5 Brashears Stand Site. Inns–known as stands along the Old Natchez Trace–were established as rest stops for weary travelers. While the old stand no longer remains, the site still holds much historical significance.
Immerse yourself in local arts and culture at the Bill Waller Craft Center, just down the boardwalk from the Brashears Stand Site—home to The Craftsmen’s Guild of Mississippi and stunning artwork from over 400 artisans on display.
Learn more about local Choctaw tribe history by visiting Milepost 100.7 Choctaw Agency or Milepost 106.9 Boyd Site. The Choctaw Agency along the Natchez Trace was the hub of government and Choctaw business in the 1800s. The Boyd Site holds hundreds of years of history, hosting three Native American burial mounds.
Travel Tips and Resources
Whether you want to stay within easy access to hiking trails in Ridgeland or experience all that Ridgeland tourism has to offer in the heart of the city, there are plenty of great hotel options.
If you are looking for a great night out, Ridgeland just happens to be known as the “Steakhouse Capital of Mississippi.” So, your trip is simply not complete without a stop at one of these local favorites:
- Kathyrn’s Steakhouse & Seafood–for hand-cut steaks with a side of live music
- Ely’s Restaurant & Bar–for mouth-watering steak and a sleek bar environment
- Tico’s Steak House–for delectable steaks at a nostalgic American steakhouse
- Koestler Prime–for quality steaks and service at an upscale location
- MM Shapley’s–for southern steaks in a classy atmosphere
Want the insider scoop from the locals? Ridgeland is your gateway into the city and all the best Natchez Trace activities. Find all the best local spots and hidden gems along the parkway. They make finding resources, planning itineraries, and booking activities easy.
An adventurous outdoor experience, rich in natural beauty and cultural history, awaits at the Natchez Trace Parkway in Ridgeland. Take one of the most scenic drives in Mississippi and stay awhile in Ridgeland. There’s no better place to enjoy the great outdoors than among the lush forests and a clear lake, where you can walk the same path as people from history books.
No matter what you plan to do during your stay, visit Explore Ridgeland to make your trip to the Natchez Trace a breeze.
To find more fun along the Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi, check out Southern Hospitality in Natchez Family Reunions.
