There are endless routes to explore, with 7,300 miles of highway across Mississippi. We’ve identified five motorcycle rides in Mississippi that will keep you busy for a while!
Tips Before You Ride
Mississippi has some of the best motorcycle rides in the country, but that doesn’t mean there’s no risk involved. Here are some things to keep in mind before you ride:
1. Ventilated gear is a must during the summer months. The high humidity can make the warm temperatures feel even hotter. Take advantage of as much breeze as you can get.
2. Be ready for rain. Thunderstorms are common in the summer, so check the forecast before you go, and make sure you’re comfortable riding in the rain if there’s a chance of showers.
3. Stay vigilant. As you know, riders are more likely to get into accidents, primarily due to the negligence and errors of four-wheeled vehicles. Never be complacent and stay extra alert if you are on a new road that you haven’t ridden before.
4. Autumn is a fan favorite. Though you can ride year-round in Mississippi, the most popular riding season is autumn. The weather is mild, and the fall colors are stunning.
Ride 1: De Soto National Forest
Breathe in the smell of fresh pine and feel the peaceful vibes of moving water with the numerous streams you’ll encounter on this ride. There’s not much traffic here, and plenty of fun curves to keep your brain engaged over the 33 miles.
This route takes you along Route 29, and if you’re feeling lucky, you could start your day at the Biloxi Casino and then head north about 60 miles to De Soto National Forest.
Ride 2: Natchez Trace Parkway
Winding 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway is an absolute must for motorcyclists in the region. The Mississippi portion wends its way along some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state. Riders can enjoy views of rolling hills, dense forests, and open meadows. There are also numerous historical sites and markers along the way, and rock ‘n’ roll fans should plan for a stop in Tupelo, birthplace of one Elvis Aaron Presley.
The speed limit is 50 mph, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable ride. This route is perfect for those who want a leisurely journey through some of Mississippi’s most picturesque areas.
Ride 3: Old Port Gibson Road
If the word “tame” in the Natchez Trace Parkway route description made you stifle a yawn, then a great alternative is Old Port Gibson Road. Here, you’ll have the pleasurable challenge of navigating multiple twists and turns. This route epitomizes the phrase, “dangerous curves ahead.”
The road is 50 miles long and has a long history. It was most notably used by the Union Army during the Civil War as troops marched to Raymond. However, most of the historical sites are no longer there.
The natural scenery rivals Natchez Trace Parkway, so make sure you keep your eyes on the road!
Ride 4: Highway 90
US Highway 90 runs along Mississippi’s stretch of the Gulf Coast, providing stunning ocean views of coastal landscapes and the massive Gulf of Mexico beyond. This route offers a unique riding experience with the sound of the waves and the smell of the salt air to accompany your journey. Riders can explore charming towns like Bay St. Louis and the bright lights of Biloxi, enjoy fresh seafood, and visit beautiful beaches along the way. Check out the Biloxi Lighthouse, Fort Massachusetts in Gulfport, or The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art (named for George Ohr, the “Mad Potter of Biloxi”) for a taste of Mississippi’s culture and history.
Route 5: Highway 15
Starting in Biloxi on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, Highway 15 runs about 30 miles north through the Red Creek State Wildlife Management Area to the Buttercup Flats in the De Soto National Forest, near the town of Whites Crossing. This route offers fantastic scenery for nature lovers, and it only gets better if you keep going north from Whites Crossing into the rest of the De Soto National Forest. After a trip through the forest, riders can rejoin Highway 15 in the town of Beaumont and keep heading north to where the highway terminates near Walnut. All told, Highway 15 runs for over 300 miles through the heart of Mississippi and has plenty to offer for riders of all interests and skill levels.
Enjoy Everything Mississippi Has to Offer, Including Law Tigers
As you don your helmet and explore motorcycle rides in Mississippi, don’t forget to stay safe! Law Tigers has a free Riders Benefit Kit that gives you access to free legal advice, a toll-free accident hotline, information about exclusive events, and financial rewards. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, give our Mississippi Law Tigers a call at 1-888-863-7216.
