STARKVILLE, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Farms are one of the most prominent symbols of agritourism in Mississippi, according to the Mississippi State University (MSU) Extension Service.

Fall marks the time of year when this activity is at its peak, and one easy way to experience it firsthand with minimal advance planning is the Mississippi Hills Farm to Fork Foodie Trail. The 35-stop route across 19 full counties and parts of 11 others encompasses a variety of agritourism examples in the state’s northeastern quadrant.

Stops include the farms where commodities are grown and produced, and the restaurants, farmers markets and local stores where goods are sold.

The MSU Extension Service Center for Government and Community Development partnered with the Mississippi Hills National Heritage Area to curate the trail.

“The idea behind Farm to Fork was to share the area’s agricultural and culinary story with first-time visitors to the state and to show people who live in Mississippi something about food systems that they may not have known,” said Rachael Carter, MSU Extension tourism specialist and instructor with the center. “The locations aren’t limited to farms and restaurants. The trail also has a meadery, florist, creamery, apiary and a coffee roasting business, along with a selection of farmers markets.”

Agritourism also encompasses summer-oriented operations. U-pick farms are perfect for those looking for hands-on agricultural experience. Later in the year, Christmas tree farms allow visitors to choose and cut their own trees.

According to the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC), agritourism generates about $150 million a year in the state.

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