Desoto National Forest Trails Tuxachanie Trail

DeSoto National Forest trails are plentiful. However, of all the trails within the forest, there’s one that stands out above the rest, and it’s the Tuxachanie Trail. Just under 12 miles, the trail is a lengthy one. Don’t let that deter you, though. It’s an easy trek and can be accessed from several different points, so you don’t have to hike the whole trail. You’ll definitely want to hike part of it, though, and that’s because it includes an abandoned railroad, former POW camp, and lots of natural beauty.

The Tuxachanie Trail is one of two National Recreation Trails in the DeSoto National Forest. (The other is the Black Creek Trail.)

Anna Wright/Google

A point-to-point trail, it spans 11.9 miles through the vast DeSoto National Forest.

Ken Tischler/All Trails

The trail’s entrance is just off Highway 49 in Saucier. Hard to miss, the entrance is marked by signage as well as rows of live oaks.

Michael DeMarco/Google

The first 5 miles of the trail follows an abandoned railroad. Brimming with history, the railroad once served the Dantzler Lumber Company, a local sawmill.

Mary Mullins/All Trails

As the trail continues, it meanders through a variety of vegetation and varying landscapes.

Luke/Google

Along the way, the trail traverses plains, savannas, and swamps filled with palmettos, pitcher plants, towering pines, and wild orchids.

Bradley Dey/All Trails

Though it’s a primitive trail, there are several bridges and boardwalks throughout.

Caleb Ford/All Trails

The Airey Lake Recreation Area, which offers camping, picnicking, and fishing, is located around the trail’s halfway point.

David Knowles/All Trails

Eventually, the trail comes to an end at an old POW camp. The POW camp is actually part of a recreation area, complete with a lake and campground.

Jason Lykins/Google

There are a few things you should know before taking on the Tuxachanie Trail. For starters, there’s no drinking water on the trail, so make sure to bring your own.

Rebecca Torres/All Trails

Also, primitive camping is permitted throughout the entire trail (except during deer hunting season). However, your tent must be at least 100 feet from the trail.

Wade Tolbert/Google

Another feature of the trail that shouldn’t be overlooked is the fact that there are three different trailheads, which means you can access the trail from the beginning, middle, or end. So, if you don’t want to hike the entire 12 miles to see the POW camp, you don’t have to! Visit the USDA website to learn more about the Tuxachanie National Hiking Trail as well as other DeSoto National Forest trails.