Clark Creek Natural Area

Clark Creek Natural Area protects more than 700 acres of the Tunica Hills in Wilkinson County, a place that does not look like the rest of Mississippi. The preserve, created in 1978, holds about 50 waterfalls, from 10 feet to more than 30, in ravines cut through wind-blown loess and underlying sands and clays. Mississippi's Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks agency describes it as one of the state's most beautiful outdoor treasures, and a walk shows why.

The geology is the show. The Bluff Hills run along the eastern edge of the Mississippi River floodplain, with steep-sided gullies, dry ridges and moist ravines, and at Clark Creek the stream cuts through more than 400 feet of loose sediment. Expect steep trails. The preserve is habitat for black bears, for a rare land snail and for the federally endangered Carolina magnolia vine, and the department lists birds, invertebrates and venomous snakes as well.

The main route is the Clark Creek Primitive Trail, a 4.9-mile loop that the state rates as moderately challenging. Only foot traffic is allowed. There is no camping, no hunting and no motor vehicles, and the only restroom and water fountain are at the trailhead. Parking is limited, so carpool if you can. Wear boots, carry plenty of water, and keep well back from the edges of the falls; help is a long way off.