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Witch Dance Horse Trail

Tombigbee National Forest, Mississippi · 3 min read

Distance
12 mi
Elevation Gain
600 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Loop
Best Season
October through April
Est. Time
6-8 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Named for the Mississippi folklore legend of the Witch Dance clearing
  • Primary equestrian trail system in Tombigbee National Forest
  • Proximity to the Natchez Trace Parkway
  • Mixed hardwood and pine forest with real upland ridge terrain
  • 12-mile loop with shorter inner loop options
wildlifehistoric site

Overview

Witch Dance Horse Trail is the primary multi-use trail in Tombigbee National Forest, named for a Mississippi folklore legend associated with the nearby Natchez Trace. The 12-mile loop is designed for equestrian use but is open to hikers and mountain bikers throughout. The forest here is the most varied terrain in Tombigbee, with real ridge-to-valley topography in the upland hardwood and pine.

The Witch Dance area sits near the Natchez Trace Parkway, connecting the trail to one of the most historically significant roads in American history. No permit is required.

The Route

Inner loop (5 to 6 miles): The inner portion covers the most scenic section of the Witch Dance system, passing through mature upland hardwood with ridge-top views in winter and the namesake clearing area. This is the recommended starting point for day hikers.

Full outer loop (12 miles): The full loop extends into the more remote eastern sections of the trail system. Two vehicles (or a shuttle) make a one-way approach possible, though the loop is designed to return to the same trailhead.

Creek crossings: Several creek crossings on the full route may be ankle-deep in spring.

When to Hike

October through April: Most comfortable. The inner clearing area and ridge views are best in winter when the canopy is open. Hunting seasons mean blaze orange is recommended in the upland sections.

May through September: Hot. Morning starts recommended.

What to Bring

Carry 2 liters of water for the full loop. Trekking poles for the ridge descents. Insect repellent from March through October. Blaze orange for hunting season visits.

Trailhead Access

The Witch Dance Horse Camp is accessible from the Natchez Trace Parkway (the Witch Dance picnic area at milepost 233.2) and from forest roads. The Natchez Trace Parkway access is the most direct route.

Nearby

The Choctaw Lake Loop is a shorter lake-focused alternative in the same western unit. The Tombigbee Earthworks Trail is the forest's Civil War history hike. For information about the Natchez Trace itself, see the NPS website. 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.

The America the Beautiful pass covers day-use fees at developed recreation areas throughout the national forest system. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in the veteran benefits guide.

Trailhead Parking

Witch Dance Horse Camp trailhead near the Natchez Trace Parkway. Horse camp facilities. No fee.

← Back to Tombigbee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Witch Dance legend?
According to Mississippi folklore, the Witch Dance clearing near the Natchez Trace was a gathering place for witches who danced in circles. Where they danced, the grass died and refused to grow again. The bare patches in the original forest (likely caused by poor soil or compaction rather than supernatural forces) gave the location its name. The Natchez Trace Parkway's Witch Dance area preserves the name and the folklore as part of the Trace's historical interpretation.
Is the Witch Dance Horse Trail open to hikers?
Yes. The trail is a multi-use route open to equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers. Horse traffic is highest on weekend mornings. Hikers should yield to mounted riders and step off the trail to allow horses to pass calmly.
How long is the shorter inner loop option?
The inner loop of the Witch Dance system covers approximately 5 to 6 miles. The full outer loop is 12 miles. Multiple connector trails allow customizing the route for day hikers who do not want the full 12-mile distance.