Blueways Spotlight

PASCAGOULA RIVER BLUEWAY SPOTLIGHT

As part of the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area’s Nature Based Tourism effort, the Blueways program was established to provide explorers an unforgettable experience along miles of beaches, rivers, creeks, and bayous. There are currently 15 Blueways, or water trails, that have been mapped out for recreational canoers and kayakers within the six coastal counties in Mississippi. Here is a quick look at the Pascagoula River Blueway in Jackson County.

in the lower 48 states, and the last unimpeded major river system in the continental U.S. The Pascagoula serves as the heart for all who claim this area as home. As a natural estuary, the river hosts abundant animal life including over 22 threatened and endangered species, in addition to over 300 plant species. Two-thirds of the Eastern breeding migratory birds use the Pascagoula River and its marshes as a resting point. It is a haven for abundant life, and its banks hold many notable historic locations and economic treasures. Travel the ten-mile Pascagoula River Blueway to discover everything from boat launches and piers to historical landmarks and natural wonders. This Blueway is ideal for both long and short excursions as it offers various locations for paddlers to launch and take out.

The northern reach of the marked water trail is at the Bennett Bayou Conservation Preserve just north of the I10 interstate on the Pascagoula River. This locale offers an ideal natural setting and is a great place for paddlers to launch. Heading south, an eastern tributary to the Blueway will take you to the noted and beautiful Pascagoula River Audubon Society as well as the Downtown Moss Point Riverwalk. Even further south, you will pass several points of interest worthy of exploration. The Krebs Cemetery is located near mile marker 2 and is adjacent to the Historic La Pointe Krebs House, the oldest structure in the Mississippi valley established by French colonists in 1757. About one-half mile south of there is River Park, home to the Scranton Museum as well ing Kayak launches. Lighthouse Park is less than one-half mile further south and is home to the historic 1859 Round Island Lighthouse. Other amenities include the Pascagoula Environmental and Educational Trail, playgrounds, pavilions, Pascagoula River Jackson County Blueway Trail, the Historic Pascagoula Bike Trail, and the Pascagoula Historic Pathway.

The Blueway’s southern terminus is at the Magnolia Birding Pier and is accessible by car from Magnolia Street and Dupont Avenue. The inlet is home to many native birds including brown pelicans, blue herons, and white egrets.

To learn more about Mississippi’s Coastal Blueways, visit the National Heritage Area website at msgulfcoastheritage. ms.gov/natural/blueways/. If You are planning an outing and would like to download a map of the Pascagoula River Jack tage.ms.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/BLUEWAYS-template-Pascagoula_JC.pdf.