International Travelers: Explore Hattiesburg’s Outdoors Where Adventure Happens

The Longleaf Trace is a 44-mile rail-to-trail path that runs from Hattiesburg to Prentiss, Mississippi offering a picturesque route for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. The paved route was once a railroad line running through the city.

From Downtown Hattiesburg to West Hattiesburg, visitors can enjoy a fun, smooth bike ride along paved trails. Hattiesburg’s newest outfitter, Jed’s Perfect Endurance Bikes, located in West Hattiesburg, provides bike rentals, allowing guests to easily explore this scenic trail. The shop offers a variety of bikes, from casual cruisers to performance models, ensuring that riders of all skill levels can enjoy the ride. Stop for coffee or snacks, too!

Visit Jed’s Perfect Endurance Bikes at www.jedsperfectendurancebikes.com for bike rental details.

One of the many highlights along the trail is the impressive “Together as One” mural. Created by Miami artist Ivan Roque, this 100-foot mural, commissioned by the Hattiesburg Alliance for Public Art, beautifully showcases the local flora and fauna, adding a touch of cultural artistry to your outdoor adventure.

For more information about the Longleaf Trace, including trail maps and tips for planning your visit, check out the official website here.

For water enthusiasts, the Pinebelt Blueways offers over 80 miles of serene rivers and lakes perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Spanning the Leaf and Bouie Rivers, the Blueways provide a variety of routes, from peaceful paddles for beginners to more challenging stretches for seasoned adventurers.

Paddlers can enjoy the calm waters, spot local wildlife, and immerse themselves in Hattiesburg’s natural beauty. If you're looking for a guided experience or want to explore a specific route, you can book a guided float or route directly from the Pinebelt Blueways website. The Blueways provide a perfect setting for those wanting to connect with nature while navigating the scenic rivers of Hattiesburg.

For more information on routes, bookings, and guided experiences, visit the official website of Pinebelt Blueways here.

While exploring Hattiesburg’s outdoor offerings, make sure to immerse yourself in the vibrant HBURG Public Art Trail. With over 100 stops, this growing art trail features murals, sculptures, and installations that showcase the creativity of local and national artists. Whether you walk, bike, or drive, this trail offers a colorful and engaging way to experience the city. Hattiesburg is on its way to becoming “The City of 100 Murals," and this trail is the perfect way to discover the beauty of the city’s public art.


For more information on the HBURG Public Art Trail, check out the full details here.

History buffs can enjoy the Freedom Summer Trail, which celebrates the important civil rights history of Hattiesburg. The trail, with over a dozen stops, highlights key moments and figures in the 1964 Freedom Summer voter registration drive. As you walk the trail, you’ll encounter audio components and oral histories that bring the rich history of Hattiesburg to life.


Explore more about the Freedom Summer Trail here.

If you’re seeking a tranquil setting to relax, the All-American Rose Garden at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offers a peaceful retreat. Located on the pristine campus, this garden features beautifully landscaped paths and vibrant roses, providing the perfect spot for a quiet stroll or a moment of reflection. Here, you’ll find more than 250 bushes with hybrid varieties that can’t be found elsewhere.

From cycling the Longleaf Trace and paddling the Pinebelt Blueways to relaxing in the Rose Garden or embarking on the GeoTour, Hattiesburg offers an array of outdoor activities that are perfect for international travelers. Whether you’re looking for an active adventure or a serene escape, this vibrant city provides the ideal setting for exploring nature at its finest.


For more information on outdoor activities in Hattiesburg, go to Visit Hattiesburg’s Outdoor Activities page, Tours & Trails page, or Itineraries page.