Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail

This is a 10.5-mile paved point-to-point path, running from Reservoir Overlook at milepost 105.6 southwest to milepost 95.8. It is shared by walkers, joggers and cyclists and winds along the Parkway through the Ridgeland-Jackson metro area. The park describes it as nearly 10 miles; the mapped tread measures about 10.5. Chisha Foka is Choctaw for “among the post oaks,” the name of a Choctaw town that stood where Jackson is today.

The asphalt path rolls gently and bends through hardwood and pine woods, with the city sometimes close by. This isn't isolated backcountry: the trail crosses roads and at times runs beside the Parkway shoulder. At milepost 104.5, a short side visit reaches a sunken section of the original Natchez Trace, worn below the surrounding ground by thousands of years of foot traffic. Other stretches pass near the Ridgeland water tower and railroad; the I-55 crossing uses a divided pedestrian and bicycle lane on the Parkway bridge. The broad reservoir view is at the northern end, beside Reservoir Overlook.

Allow about four hours on foot one way for the full length. The grades are mild, but ten-plus paved miles is still a long outing. Reservoir Overlook at MP 105.6 has parking and makes the clearest start. The southern end at MP 95.8 is marked “No Access to Parkway”; the nearest reported parking is Choctaw Agency at MP 100.7, nearly five miles north. Arrange a pickup or another return plan before walking point to point. For a shorter outing, start at a signed access along the way and turn back. The trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Keep right and pass on the left; cyclists should yield to pedestrians and signal when passing. Watch road crossings and stretches beside the Parkway shoulder, and respect private property along the route. The park also warns about fire ants, poison ivy and venomous snakes. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet. The paved surface and gentle grades make for an easy roll or walk, and the park lists it among its wheelchair-accessible options, though it doesn't provide an accessibility breakdown by mile. Rice Road's trailhead pavilion has a drinking fountain and bike-repair station; Shucker's Oyster Bar is nearby but off the route.