The Tanglefoot Trail is a beautiful 44 mile rail-trail that meanders through the Appalachian Foothills of Northern Mississippi. There’s very little elevation gain along the Tanglefoot which makes it an easy ride and lovely way to spend a fall afternoon in Northern Mississippi. While it is not a mountain biking trail, I feel it’s worth mentioning. Biking the Tanglefoot Trail is good for the body and soul.
The section we rode from Houston to New Houlka was a peaceful roll through bucolic Mississippi countryside. Rest areas, scenic bridges and low traffic intersections dot the trail. It is a multi use trail so expect to see a few walkers and joggers.
Biking the Tanglefoot Trail
As you can see from the elevation profile above it is relatively flat trail with no sharp turns to speak of. Just a pleasant stroll.
Parking is available at the three gateway facilities in the largest communities along the route (one at each end of the trail and one in the middle):
- Houston: 583 West Church Street – milepost 0 – Southern end
- Pontotoc: 121 South College Street – milepost 25.1 Middle
- New Albany: Carter Avenue – milepost 43.6 Northern end
Whistle Stops provide parking, restrooms, water fountains, bike racks and picnic tables:
- New Houlka: 205 West Front Street – milepost 9.9
- Algoma: 24 Weeks Street – milepost 19.3
- Ecru 279: South Railroad Avenue – milepost 32.6
- Ingomar: 1103 County Road 90 – milepost 37.1
Trailhead Bike and Bed located next to the Tanglefoot Trailhead in Houston is a small, gated lodge style hotel. Four self-service style guest rooms and three RV hookup sites share the outdoor amenities including a patio, full outdoor kitchen, jacuzzi, wet bar, fire pit, entertainment stage and courtyard.
While it is geared toward cyclists they welcome all guests, events or groups. Pet friendly, cable, WiFi and laundry facilities round out the amenities. We did not stay at the Bike and Bed since we have family in the area but in all honesty, it’s probably one of the nicest places to stay in Houston and the perfect midpoint stop for cyclists riding the Natchez Trace.
Trailhead Bike and Bed
576 West Church Street
Houston, Mississippi 38851
662-456-6934
Houston was the Eastern terminus of our Austin, Paris, Ruidoso road trip and a peaceful way to spend a couple days before our return trip.
Northern Mississippi Highlights
Northern MS is chock-full of cultural and historical sites so go ahead, indulge in the slower pace and fritter away a few days.
