There are so many great sites along the Natchez Trace Parkway that it’s easy to overlook a few. One spot that you don’t want to miss is the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail. Just like the rest of the Natchez Trace, the 10-mile trail is steeped in beauty AND history.
Located in Ridgeland, the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail is a 10-mile paved path that runs through historic Choctaw homelands.
William Lister/All Trails The trail is named in honor of the Choctaw town Chisha Foka, present-day Jackson. Chisha Foka literally translates to “among the post oaks.”
Also known as the Natchez Trace Multi-Use Trail, it follows the Natchez Trace Parkway, stretching from milepost 95.8 to milepost 105.6.
nps.gov
Lined with trees, flowers, and wildlife, the trail is a favorite of walkers, joggers, bikers, and nature lovers.
nps.gov
Several points of interest, such as the Parkway Information Cabin, dot the trail.
Fabio Miguel Castellanos/Google At the cabin, which is located at milepost 102.4, you can stock up on maps and brochures as well learn about Choctaw history and culture. (If the cabin is closed when you visit, you can still grab a map from the kiosk in the parking lot.)
The trail comes to an end at the Barnett Reservoir Overlook, where you’ll be met with informative signage and…
Prince Hansinger/All Trails
…panoramic views.
Valerie Barton/All Trails
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when trekking along the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail. For starters, it’s open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Amy Fifer/All Trails
It should also be noted that the trail has some gradual slopes, which is something to keep in mind, especially when traveling with kids or the elderly.
Patrick Wu/Google
Lastly, it’s a great visit year-round since the scenery changes throughout the seasons.
Dee Willis/All Trails
For more information, call (662) 680-4014. You can also visit the National Park Service website.
William Lister/All Trails
The trail is named in honor of the Choctaw town Chisha Foka, present-day Jackson. Chisha Foka literally translates to “among the post oaks.”
nps.gov
Fabio Miguel Castellanos/Google
At the cabin, which is located at milepost 102.4, you can stock up on maps and brochures as well learn about Choctaw history and culture. (If the cabin is closed when you visit, you can still grab a map from the kiosk in the parking lot.)
Prince Hansinger/All Trails
Valerie Barton/All Trails
Amy Fifer/All Trails
Patrick Wu/Google
Dee Willis/All Trails
So, did you know about this trail? Ever stretched your legs along this trail? If so, what’d you think? Know of another trail that’s brimming with beauty and history? Tell us!
This is just one of the great trails in Mississippi. Click here to read about one that leads to an abandoned WWII POW camp.
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Address: Natchez Trace Multi-Use Trail, Ridgeland, MS 39157, USA