A short hike with a picturesque payoff, Baker’s Pond Trail leads straight to a secluded, spring-fed pond. The 1-mile trail boasts tons of natural beauty along the way, too, including some oddly-hued sand. Short, sweet, and scenic, it’s a great way to stretch your legs without breaking a sweat.

At more than 150,000 acres, Holly Springs National Forest is an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to several recreation areas, the forest boasts lots of hiking trails, including Baker’s Pond Trail.

Matthew Nichols/Wikimedia

The highlight of the 1-mile out-and-back trail is its namesake, Baker’s Pond.

Dave Galloway/All Trails

The pond is fed by artesian springs, but that’s not its only notable feature. It’s also the source of the headwaters of the Wolf River.

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Though the pond is located near the end of the trail, there’s plenty to see throughout the trek.

Lorenzo Walton/All Trails

The trail meanders through the hilly, Appalachian-like terrain of the Holly Springs National Forest, which, in the fall, boasts vibrant foliage.

Matthew Nichols/Wikimedia

Purple sand is another common sight along the trail. The sand’s unique color is caused by the clay and aquifer located just beneath the ground’s surface.

Wolf River Conservancy/Facebook

An easy trek, Baker’s Pond Trail is flat – for the most part.

Matthew Pintar/All Trails

As the trail progresses, the elevation increases by 141 feet. Don’t let that deter you, though. There’s a staircase that makes the ascension a breeze.

Abe Schacter-Gampel/All Trails

The effort is definitely worth it, as the staircase leads to a ridge that overlooks Baker’s Pond.

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Matthew Nichols/Wikimedia

Dave Galloway/All Trails

wolfriver.org

Lorenzo Walton/All Trails

Wolf River Conservancy/Facebook

Matthew Pintar/All Trails

Abe Schacter-Gampel/All Trails

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Ready to stroll along this short, but scenic, trail? For more info on Baker’s Pond Trail, including a trail map, click here.

So, did you know about Baker’s Pond Trail? Ever completed this hike? If so, what’d you think? Know of another trek that leads to a hidden gem? Tell us!

This isn’t the only hike with scenic views. Click here to read about a trail that leads to an elevated platform with stunning views.

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Address: Trailhead for Bakers Pond Trail, Tower Road@Old, Old Hwy 72, Walnut, MS 38683, USA