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Cypress Slough Boardwalk

Delta National Forest, Mississippi · 3 min read

Distance
0.8 mi
Elevation Gain
0 ft
Difficulty
easy
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
November through April
Est. Time
30-45 minutes
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
1 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Elevated boardwalk directly into a standing-water cypress swamp
  • Ancient bald cypress with massive trunk diameters and extensive knees
  • The most visually dramatic experience in Delta National Forest
  • Wood ducks, herons, and kingfishers visible from the boardwalk
  • Short and accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities
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Overview

Cypress Slough Boardwalk walks directly into a standing-water cypress swamp in Delta National Forest, offering the most visually striking experience in America's only bottomland hardwood national forest. The elevated boardwalk extends 0.8 miles round-trip into the slough, with the dark tannin-stained water visible below and the massive buttressed trunks of ancient bald cypress rising on both sides. The knobby "knees" projecting from the water surface at the base of each tree create the characteristic landscape that makes southern cypress swamps some of the most photogenic natural features in the eastern United States.

The walk is short, flat, and accessible. No permit is required.

The Route

The boardwalk: The elevated walkway begins at the gravel parking area and extends into the slough through a gap in the forest edge. Within the first 50 feet, the character changes completely: you are in the swamp, with water beneath the boards and cypress crowns above. The views get progressively more impressive as the boardwalk penetrates deeper into the standing-water zone.

The end point is a viewing platform where the slough opens up and long views across the water surface are possible. This is the best spot for watching wood ducks, anhingas, and herons. Early morning in winter is the peak time for wildlife activity.

When to Visit

November through March: The best window for wildlife and comfortable temperatures. Winter waterfowl add to the already-rich resident bird population. The bare winter canopy on some of the surrounding hardwoods opens views that would be closed in summer.

April and May: Good for spring migration warblers passing through the cypress and for prothonotary warblers beginning their nesting season.

June through October: The boardwalk is accessible but the heat is oppressive, insects are intense, and alligators are active in the water below.

What to Bring

Binoculars for the wildlife viewing platform at the end of the boardwalk. A camera for the cypress swamp scenery. Insect repellent from March through October.

Trailhead Access

The boardwalk access is reached via forest roads in the central section of Delta National Forest. The USFS Sunflower District office in Rolling Fork can provide directions and current boardwalk conditions.

Nearby

The Sweetgum Nature Trail provides interpretive context for what you see on the boardwalk. The Delta Bottomland Trail covers a longer section of the forest's bottomland hardwood. Review the Leave No Trace seven principles before visiting.

Before any outing in East Texas national forest terrain, review the checking conditions guide for current information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts from official USFS sources.

Trailhead Parking

Cypress Slough boardwalk access. Small gravel lot. No fee.

← Back to Delta National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cypress Slough Boardwalk wheelchair accessible?
The boardwalk is generally accessible for wheelchairs on the main sections, though the surface may have gaps or uneven boards due to normal weather and water exposure. Contact the USFS Sunflower District office for current conditions before visiting with accessibility needs.
How old are the cypress trees on the boardwalk?
The exact ages of the cypress are not publicly documented, but mature bald cypress in undisturbed southern swamps commonly reach several hundred years in age. The large trunk diameters and height of the trees visible from the boardwalk suggest considerable age. Bald cypress can live over 1,000 years in ideal conditions; the oldest trees in Delta National Forest may be in this range.
Is the boardwalk accessible when the slough is at full flood?
The boardwalk is elevated specifically to remain accessible during normal flooding cycles. However, during exceptional flood years, high water levels can affect the boardwalk. Check current conditions with the USFS before visiting, particularly in late winter and spring when flooding is most likely.