Ready, Set, Ride: Cycling Season on the Trace Begins
Spring signals the start of one of Ridgeland's favorite seasons. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or someone who simply wants to explore on two wheels, the trails along Ridgeland are ready and waiting. Ridgeland has earned its reputation as Mississippi's premier cycling destination, and for good reason. Ridgeland holds an ABA Bronze Level designation as a bike-friendly community, and the trails, programs and local businesses here back that up. Whether you are visiting for the weekend or living nearby and looking for a new routine, Ridgeland has a cycling experience built for you. From a nationally recognized multi-use trail to a bikeshare program that lowers the barrier to entry for visitors, the infrastructure is here and built for riders of every level.
Where to Ride in Ridgeland
No matter your speed or skill level, there is a trail in Ridgeland that fits.
Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail
Ten miles of paved path through historic Choctaw homelands, green space and wildlife corridors. Eight access points from milepost 95.8 to the Reservoir Overlook at milepost 105.6.
Natchez Trace Parkway
A 444-mile National Scenic Byway with mild to moderate elevation. The Ridgeland segment offers road cycling with minimal traffic and stunning natural surroundings.
Ridgeland Mountain Bike Trails
Serviced by the Tri-County Mountain Bike Association. Riders looking for single track and a little more challenge will find it here.
Ridgeland Bikeshare
Mississippi’s first bikeshare program makes it easy to get out and explore. Completely free to use, no gear required. Just pick up a bike and go.
With two convenient fleets, one at the Ridgeland Visitors Center and one at The Bike Crossing, with easy access to the Natchez Trace Parkway, it’s perfect for visitors and casual riders looking to experience the area at their own pace.
For a guided experience on your own schedule, download the Self-Guided Bike Tour route and make a full day of it. The Reservoir Overlook at milepost 105.6 is a natural stopping point with views of the reservoir that are worth the pedal.
Getting Ready to Ride
A few minutes of prep before your first spring ride will make the whole experience better. Check tire pressure, inspect your brakes, lube the chain and make sure your helmet fits correctly. If your bike has been in storage, a quick visit to a local shop can get everything back in working order fast.
Dress in layers for early morning starts. Temperatures on the Trace tend to run cooler than in town, especially in the shade of the tree canopy. Carry water and a snack even on shorter routes, and pick up a trail map at the Ridgeland Visitor Center before you head out if it is your first time.
Looking for a goal to work toward? The Natchez Trace Century Ride draws nearly 1,000 cyclists to Ridgeland each year with distance options ranging from 8 to 100 miles. There are energizer stops, food and hands-on fun every 10 to 15 miles, making it one of the most welcoming organized rides in the region.
Fuel well, ride well
How you fuel your body before and after a ride matters as much as the gear you choose. A heart-healthy diet built around anti-inflammatory foods supports endurance, aids recovery and keeps you on the bike longer. One of the best local stops for stocking up on the good stuff is J. Olive Co. in Ridgeland.
Cycling season in Ridgeland has no hard start or end date. The trails are accessible year-round and the community of riders who show up for them is welcoming to newcomers. Spring just happens to be when everything aligns: the weather, the scenery and the motivation to get moving.
Ready to plan your ride? Start with the trail map at exploreridgeland.com and build the rest of your day from there.