The best road cycling routes in Hinds County

A small stretch of the "Old Trace" is preserved here, sunken and well worn over centuries of use. You can take a stroll through time and imagine yourself walking along the trail in times gone by. There is also a picnic area for a touch of modern convenience.

At Rocky Springs, you'll find a trail that leads to the quiet remains of what was once a bustling town along the Natchez Trace. Settled in the late 1790s and named after its natural water source, the town grew into a thriving community by 1860, with over 2,600 people living in the area. It had merchants, doctors, teachers, clergy, and skilled artisans, all supported by the surrounding cotton plantations worked by more than 2,000 enslaved people. But like many Southern towns of the era, Rocky Springs couldn’t withstand the blows of the Civil War, yellow fever outbreaks, crop failures, and loss of forced labor. Today, only traces of the town remain, offering a glimpse into its rise and fall. Rocky Springs also has a 22-site first come first served campground. The campsites are generally private due to the large trees and most have picnic tables and fire pits. There are flush toilets, but no showers.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is dotted with city and county run visitor centers, and this one in Clinton is a great place to stop to learn about the local history. It's built to resemble an authentic 1800s-style farmhouse, that were once common along the Natchez. The museum has displays about the history of the Natchez Trace, and you'll find art and books by locals in the shop. If you are here at the right time you can enjoy “Friday Nights at Milepost 89” where local musicians perform on the 3rd Friday of each month.

Lake Cavalier is a small scenic lake that is part of a community of lake homes that surround the lake.

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.

Ross R Barnett Reservoir is a 33,000 acre lake that serves as the state's largest drinking water source. There are 105 miles of shoreline with the Natchez Trace Parkway running along the western shore.

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.

The Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail is a historic path traveling through the homelands of the Choctaw. The paved path is 10 miles long and really well-kept. Be aware of other trail users, as this can be a pretty busy path full of runners, walkers, and bikers.