Best Places to Run in Tupelo

By Carson Lancaster, Manager, Fleet Feet Tupelo

Tupelo, Mississippi, offers a variety of picturesque running routes for both residents and visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a scenic trail or the convenience of a road run, you'll find something to suit your running needs in our charming Southern city. 

Fleet Feet Tupelo sponsors a public run every month, most of which take place downtown. It’s a great way to get involved with the local running community and enjoy the small town atmosphere. 

Downtown Tupelo 

• Length: 2 miles+
• Address: Main Street Tupelo MS 38804
• Surface: Paved 

Exploring Tupelo's historic downtown area on foot is a unique and enjoyable way to run. You can choose your path as you navigate the charming streets and explore the city's heritage. Join us at Fleet Feet Tupelo for group runs in the downtown area! It’s a fun way to explore the shops, restaurants, and tributes to Elvis Presley in his hometown. 

Blackland Prairie Trail, Natchez Trace Parkway

• Length: 6 miles
• Address: Natchez Trace Parkway, Milepost 266
• Surface: Trail

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile historic recreational road and scenic drive that runs from Nashville, TN to Natchez, MS. While many people enjoy the Trace by car, there are plenty of opportunities to explore by foot along the Parkway. The Tupelo Trail is found at Milepost 266 along the Trace. The trailhead can be found across the Parkway from the visitor center. This section is only open to foot traffic with the exception of road crossings along the parkway. 

Ballard Park Loop

• Length: 1.4 Miles
• Address: 2629 West Main Street Tupelo, MS 38866
• Surface: Mixed gravel and paved

Ballard Park is a family-friendly area with a path good for road biking, walking and running. It features scenic views of a lake, gardens, playgrounds, a skate park and seasonal  snow cone shop! If you’re looking for a scenic spot for a quick run, or a few loops, Ballard Park is an excellent choice. 

Nester Trail, Trace State Park

• Length: 4.3 Miles 
• Address: 2139 Faulkner Road Belden, MS 38863 
• Surface: Trail 

Nester Trail is one of the longer trails found in Trace State Park that was developed for mountain biking, running and hiking. It’s also a popular spot for bird watching. The trail is a loop which should be completed counterclockwise. The end of the trail passes by the main lake, although much of the lake has been drained due to a collapsing dam.  Dogs are permitted on the trail, but they must be leashed.

Music Bend NatureTrail 

• Length: 3.9 miles 
• Address: 99 North Veterans Memorial Boulevard Tupelo, MS 38804 
• Surface: Mixed paved and dirt trail 

The Music Bend Trail is a well-maintained and popular loop for running, located just a few blocks away from the birthplace of Elvis Presley. Runners enjoy the stream that runs along part of the trail, as well as birds in the area. The trail sees very little elevation gain, so it’s an excellent place for a relaxed run, or to cover a few loops if you’re looking to complete more mileage. 

CCC Camp Trail Loop

• Length: 3.6 Miles
• Address: 105 County Road 90 Tishomingo, MS 38873
• Surface: Trail

CCC Camp Trail Loop is part of Tishomingo State Park, along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Although it’s a bit of a drive from town, it’s a unique part of the state and features large rock formations and ferns that are uncommon to the area. This trail is open year round, and you’re likely to see wildflowers in the spring, as well as wildlife as you run this trail. There is a natural spring and a wooden bridge to enjoy during your run or hike.