The eyes of the college football world will be focused this weekend on Oxford, Mississippi, for the showdown between Ole Miss and LSU.
Two top-ten teams in the SEC duking it out is already newsworthy, but with the added context of Tigers coach Lane Kiffin making his way back to Vaught Hemingway Stadium for the first time since his departure from the university, this one is sure to be a hot ticket.
If you’re lucky enough to be attending the game, you’ll likely want to enjoy the great outdoors and take in all the natural beauty that the Magnolia State has to offer, and luckily for you, we here at OutKick OutDoors have you covered.
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Here are four of the best hikes in and around Oxford to help you usher in the game on Saturday.
South Campus Rail Trail
For those of you wanting a real hike without ever leaving the friendly confines of Oxford, this one is an absolute slam dunk.
The South Campus Rail Trail features a five-mile round trip trail that follows an old gravel railroad bed (hence the name), while the surrounding network contains more than 20 miles of single-track trails, according to the university website.
It’s right by campus so you don’t have to travel too far, and it also features a quiet, wooded area to take your mind off the stresses of gameday.
Whether you’re looking for a straightforward walk or something a little more adventurous through the surrounding woods, South Campus Rail Trail is the move.
Clear Creek Trail at Sardis Lake
Serious hikers who actually came to work up a sweat will love Clear Creek Trail.
It’s a little further away – about 30 minutes from downtown Oxford – but the drive is well worth it.
Clear Creek Trail offers a 13-mile loop around nearby Sardis Lake, and the trails are even split up for different levels of hikers.
There’s a three-mile beginner loop or an eight-mile beginner/intermediate combination, meaning there’s something for everyone.
The views of the lake are spectacular, especially during late summer and early fall, and the proximity to the water means hikers can make a full outdoors day that includes a little fishing if you’ve come prepared.
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One thing to note is that this doubles as a mountain biking trail, so hikers should be aware of this and yield appropriately.
The combo of the woods and the water make this a must-see.
Holly Springs National Forest
It’s been called the antithesis of a college football Saturday, and although that sounds like a pejorative, I can assure you it’s not.
Holly Springs National Forest is probably the most secluded and serene spot on this list, so if you really just need to get away from it all before a stressful slate of SEC football, this is the place for you.
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The area offers a remote destination for hikers who don’t want to deal with the large crowds some of the more “touristy” destinations hold.
The whole forest is home to 155,000 acres of federal land, and a special mention needs to be made for the recreation area at Chewalla Lake, which is great for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and more.
With it being so secluded, you’ll have to drive a bit to get here (Google Maps plots it as 65 minutes from Oxford), but that’s the price you pay for being one with nature.
If you’re looking to broaden your horizons and really explore everything northern Mississippi has to offer, make the trek here.
You won’t regret it.
Lamar Park
So, you brought the whole family along for a little SEC football action?
Great! If you’re looking for a hike you and the kids can enjoy, Lamar Park is the place to be.
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It’s a six-minute car ride from the stadium, so you won’t have to worry about entertaining the rugrats on a long road trip, and once you arrive, you’ll find a well manicured park and a low intensity walking loop for hikers trying to avoid a more strenuous workout.
Anyone who is trying to get a little sunshine and some fresh air on the morning of the game without busting their butt should check this place out, as it’s more of a scenic stroll than a heart-racing romp through the wilderness.
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Visit Oxford’s website specifically recommends its paved loop for families and visitors of varying mobility levels, so you know it’s kid-friendly.
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Hit Lamar Park for a Saturday morning stress buster and thank me later.
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