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The Longleaf Trace almost feels like two separate trail experiences in one. I rode from Prentiss to the Clyde Depot trailhead a few miles short of Hattiesburg. The Longleaf Trace is mostly shaded but does have some sneaky rolling hills that you won't see but will definitely feel on a longer ride.
The stretch from Prentiss to shortly before Sumrall was more rural and in slightly worse condition with just a few very well marked bumps and cracks here and there. I maybe passed a handful of other people on this section of the trail.
From right outside of Sumrall to Clyde Depot (I assume all the way to Hattiesburg but I can't say from experience) the trail is smooth as glass. This section of the trail had much more traffic on it so it is nice to see that the repaving investment is driving traffic to it. Sumrall is the perfect place to stop and get a bite to eat along the trail.
On a final note the water fountains are amazing. Every one I stopped at provided ice cold, fresh tasting water. It was a welcome respite on a hot and humid day. Overall the Longleaf deserves it's place in the Rail Trail Hall of Fame!
Mississippi has a real jewel in the Longleaf Trace. Parked at the Jackson Road station and covered from mile marker five to mile marker 20 for a 30 mile roun and like the smooth surface of the trail itself we’re all in good shape. All in all this is a very, very good rail trail and I thoroughly enjoyed my ride.
The trail certainly has its allure as it traverses, offers many challenging hills, and has lots of curves for visual interest. With three road bikes and a gravel bike, we loved it. However, about 1/4 of the trail is still in need of serious maintenance. Some of the cracks are so deep, a front tire could easily fall in landing on the shoulders of the cyclist before you.
Started in Prentiss—the trail from there to Sumrall had quite a few bumps and cracks (primarily due to tree roots). Bathrooms were locked but drinking fountains were operational. The section from Sumrall to Hattiesburg was in excellent condition.recently paved. Bathrooms were open. Would easily ride again! (We were on road bikes and one gravel bike.)
There is a paved bike path through the old golf course. The entrance is just past the entrance road to the Children's Museum.
This trail is now complete all the way to Riverside Drive.
We had a great two day ride weather was great and trail was great also.
I biked the trail on Saturday, August 10, 2024, and it was an excellent trail. All of the ruts and damage to the trail has been repaired. I recommend this trail because it is my favorite.
On a bike, the pavement is dangerous in many places. Some holes and bumps are difficult to see. Use caution. Needs repaving soon. Fine for running and walking.
Beware of the downtown area. Very few drivers stopped for us in crosswalks. I also had one driver sharing the bike lane with me. If that bothers you, start at mile 5
Agree with the other posts. The trail has some dangerous ruts, not from lack of maintenance but weather related.
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