If there’s one thing we can count on in Mississippi, it’s unpredictable weather. The cooler temperatures that are supposed to be synonymous with fall and winter tend to be pretty sporadic. But when they do appear, it’s the perfect chance to get out and explore the great outdoors – and we found the best town for you to do just that. Take a look:
Head to the northeastern corner of the state, and you’ll find Iuka. The town, which is home to just over 3,000 people, boasts equal parts small town charm and natural beauty.
Whatknot/Flickr
A delightful downtown is home to quaint shops, eateries, and one of the world’s only apron museums. There are also historic sites, like the Old Courthouse Museum.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Not only is Iuka loaded with natural beauty, but there are plenty of chances for visitors to enjoy it. J.P. Coleman State Park is one of the town’s best assets.
Dannie Coleman/Google
A great place for some fun on the water, the park is situated on the banks of the Tennessee River and Pickwick Lake.
Eleatha Billions/Google
Cooper Falls is probably one of the park’s best features, though. At 50’ in height, it’s one of the state’s tallest waterfalls.
Tommy Griffith/Google
In addition to J.P. Coleman State Park, the town is also home to Mineral Springs Park. Far from your typical park, this one gained notoriety years ago because it contains six natural springs, which were believed to have healing powers.
Mandias/Flickr
Visit Mineral Springs Park today, and you can check out the three still-flowing springs, along with nature trails, one of the state’s only covered bridges, and more.
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Woodall Mountain is another must-visit when in Iuka. At 806’, it’s the highest point in Mississippi. Even better, an easy-to-navigate 0.1-mile path leads straight to the top.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
The fun isn’t contained to city limits, though. Just outside of Iuka is Tishomingo State Park – which has won numerous awards, including Top 50 Hiking Trails, Top 50 Scenic Views, and Top 25 Amazing Locations.
Pat Arinder/Mississippi Nature Lovers Facebook
Living up to its reputation, Tishomingo offers everything from hiking and wildlife viewing…
Rita Favre-Smith/Mississippi Nature Lovers Facebook
…to kayaking and rock climbing.
Hillary Lindsey Mangrum/Mississippi Nature Lovers Facebook
Loaded with ways to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, Iuka is nothing short of a nature lover’s dream come true!
Skye Marthaler/Wikimedia
So, ever been to Iuka? If so, what’d you think? Have another favorite town for outdoor fun? Tell us in the comments section.
Whatknot/Flickr
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Dannie Coleman/Google
Eleatha Billions/Google
Tommy Griffith/Google
Mandias/Flickr
iukams.com/
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Pat Arinder/Mississippi Nature Lovers Facebook
Rita Favre-Smith/Mississippi Nature Lovers Facebook
Hillary Lindsey Mangrum/Mississippi Nature Lovers Facebook
Skye Marthaler/Wikimedia
This isn’t the only town that’s a perfect day trip destination? Click here to read about another.
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