Longleaf Trace

Longleaf Trace

Click here for more info

	Longleaf Trace
Location:	Mississippi
Nearest Town:	Hattiesburg Sumrall Bassfield Prentiss
Directions to Trailhead:	Trailheads for bike trail are at Epley and Carson. See web site at http://www.longleaftrace.org for detailed directions.
Trail Description:	Horse trail that runs parallel to a 41 mile paved rails to trails conversion. All 41 miles open to mtn. bikes. passes through Hattiesburg, Epley, Sumrall, Bassfield, Carson. Paved parking at trail heads.
Trail Length:	25 miles
Trail Type:	Singletrack
Skill Level:	Beginner
Web Link:	http://www.longleaftrace.org
Submitted By:	Elmer Beardshall

Mike from Gorham, New Hampshire Date: January 17, 2003 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Either direction is fine, but I would go from Prentiss to Hattiesburg to avoid head winds from the west. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Found this trail to be top notch as it is smooth, easy grade, shaded as well as open, ample towns to get off for a snack if desired. The reststops on the trail are wonderful with the restroom facilities and vending machines as well as the picnic facilities. The stops with the decks are also great. Rode the East Bay Path in Providence, RI which is 16 miles and it one of the top 10 in the nation and feel that the Long Leaf will be on the top l0 as well. Would recommend this trail to anyone wanting to experience a fantastic experiance. Looking forward to it's completion to the State University.	Overall Rating:

Robert from Hattiesburg Date: September 17, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: North of Turtle Creek Mall, take the Gravel Pit road (Next to Lake Serene Grocery) off HWY 98 west. Take a left at 4th ave, then a right on Jackson Ave. for about 1/4 mile. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Have rode this trail numeras times. Flat track with some gradual in/declines. No technical areas just a good-ole bike ride, espicall before 9am. Lot of shade but due to the black top road it does get hot in the afternoon/evenings. The rest areas at Jackson ave, Railroad (Don't forget a little donation to help) and eply are great but after you leave Sumrall you must have water. On the downside be aware of the golf carts. I have come on them riding side by side and blocking the trail with no consideration for bikers or walkers. Have also encountered two cars riding on the trails as well as two ATV's. Other than that it is a great day walk/ride with my 10 year old.	Overall Rating:

Elmer Beardshall from Hattiesburg Date: July 21, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: No bad way to ride this one. Start in Carson or Epley if you want to ride the whole bike trail. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Very shady, a few wet spots in season, good access from many points, lots of quick stops and restaurants for refreshments. Motels at Prentiss and Hattiesburg. Camping, fishing, RV facilities.	Overall Rating: