Methods, apparatus, and networks configured to manage network congestion using packet recirculation. The networks employ network elements (e.g., Rbridges in Layer 2 networks and switches/routers in Layer 3 networks) that are configured to support multi-path forwarding under which packets addressed to the same destination may be routed via multiple paths to the destination. In response to network congestion conditions, such as lack of availability of a non-congested port via which a shortest path to the destination may be accessed, a packet may be routed backward toward a source node or forwarded toward a destination along a non-shortest path. The network elements may employ loopback buffers for looping packets back toward a source via the same link the packet is received on.