Northside Loop

The Northside Loop is a moderate hike that generally takes around 4 hours and 34 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The Northside Loop offers varied terrain. While parts of the route follow the main South Campus Rail Trail, which is a flat, crushed gravel path, other sections branch into forested hills with some areas following power line corridors. You'll encounter flat sections, hilly switchbacks, and potentially uneven ground with rocks and roots. After heavy rains, some sections of the main rail trail can become muddy or soft.

While the main South Campus Rail Trail is generally considered easy, the Northside Loop itself is rated as moderate. It includes uneven terrain, small hills, and some steeper sections, requiring good fitness. Beginners might find parts of it challenging, but it's a good option for those looking to progress beyond very easy trails.

Specific parking information for the Northside Loop isn't detailed, but the trail is part of the broader South Campus Rail Trail Recreation Area. Access points and parking are typically available within this recreation area, which is located near the University of Mississippi in Oxford.

The trail is set in a peaceful, forested environment, with much of it shaded by a hardwood canopy. You'll enjoy woodsy views, pass by two larger ponds, smaller ponds, and several ephemeral streams. The natural setting provides ample opportunities to enjoy nature.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the South Campus Rail Trail Recreation Area, including the Northside Loop. It's a publicly accessible recreation area.

Yes, the Northside Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to ensure their safety and the enjoyment of other trail users, as well as to protect local wildlife.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter hiking is possible but some sections might be muddy or icy after precipitation.

Yes, the Northside Loop is part of an extensive trail system within the South Campus Rail Trail Recreation Area. It utilizes sections of the main South Campus Rail Trail and branches off into other paths. The area is known for its connectivity, linking various parts of the Oxford community.

Yes, the area has some interesting features. The rail corridor itself has historical significance as the site of the Buckner's Trestle train wreck in 1870. Hikers might also discover remnants of previous settlements, including a gravesite, old roads, and a former dam. Additionally, you'll pass by a beautiful Pond in the South Campus Rail Trail Recreation Area.

While the main South Campus Rail Trail is easily navigable, some of the branching trails within the recreation area, including parts of the Northside Loop, can be poorly marked. It's advisable to have a map or use a navigation app like Komoot to help you stay on track and explore effectively.