It’s 2015 on the Natchez Trace! America’s most beautiful and historic scenic byway has added another year to its belt. That makes the Trace, let’s say 2,000 years old this January? But why should a person visit the Natchez Trace Parkway in 2015? There are plenty of reasons. Have a New Years resolution? Is it to get in better shape? Spend more time with family? Start a new hobby? In 2015, the Natchez Trace is where its at.

The Sunken Trace at milepost 41.5

If you’re looking to get in shape, the Natchez Trace Parkway has numerous recreational activities to match any interest or experience level. Whether hiking, biking, walking, jogging, or even paddling your kayak, there are countless opportunities to get out and get healthy on the trace. The Trace is a cyclist-friendly route, where commercial traffic is forbidden and on/off ramps mean there is no cross traffic to worry about. If you’d like to work out your arms, try paddling around the Ross Barnett Reservoir and catching a fish or two.

Ross Barnett Reservoir in Ridgeland, MS

Want to spend more time with family? The Natchez Trace Parkway offers excellent opportunities for horseback riding, camping, and having a tasty bite to eat. Southern food, BBQ, seafood…. you name it, you can find it in one of the beautiful Trace communities.

The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail in Tennessee is one of the four Parkway trails available for horseback riding. Photo courtesy: NPS

Even as you’re traveling to and from your new year’s activities, the Parkway offers beautiful views along the length of the drive. Sure winter time isn’t known for leaves and flowers, but the lack of those will help you peer into your surroundings, spotting the old farmhouses, tractors, and furry inhabitants that usually hide from view in warmer months.

Wildlife along the Parkway

Pick up a new hobby like getting more exercise and enlightenment by exploring history along the Trace. Originally a series of trails that stretched 500 miles through the Chickasaw and Choctaw lands from Mississippi to Tennessee, throughout the years it has accumulated rich layers of history that continue to fascinate visitors who travel in the footsteps of all those who’ve trekked before.

Near Tupelo, Mississippi, you’ll find the Pharr Mounds, large hills built by Native Americans who lived in the area over 2,000 years ago. Evidence of these original inhabitants and hundreds of years of new travelers is still abundant along the 444-mile scenic trail.

Or visit Windsor Ruins in Port Gibson, one of the most photographed site in Mississippi. In 1890 the main structure was destroyed by fire, leaving only stately columns as mute evidence of a glorious, historic past.

Windsor Ruins – Port Gibson, MS

So there you have it – all the excuses you need to make the Natchez Trace Parkway a part of your 2015 trip plans!

To learn more about the Natchez Trace Parkway and plan your trip, give us a call at 866.TRACE56 (872-2356) or visit scenictrace.com. You should also check out helpful information about the Natchez Trace Parkway on National Park Service website here.

Get social and follow the Natchez Trace on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace

For a true picture of the great outdoors on the Natchez Trace, you might paint by numbers like these:

• 136 types of birds (and still counting), from jewel-toned hummingbirds to lumbering flocks of wild turkey to graceful, long-limbed blue heron. The Parkway is a birder’s delight.
• 2202 types of plant species, including hardwoods, conifers, old growth and new, from lacy spring dogwood blooms to knobby cypress needs breaking black swamp water to the blaze of fall colors on towering maples and oaks.
• 205 mammals, herptiles, and fish species, including deer, fox, armadillo and coyote, and eight species federally listed as threatened or endangered. Altogether, a thriving ecosystem protected from commercial encroachment.
• 15 nature trails for your enjoyment
• 64 miles of national scenic trails; 28 different hiking and self-guided trails for a total of 100 miles of hiking heaven.

If you wanted to paint a picture of the Parkway outdoors, you might also use a magic-like the disappearing act of the “Sunken Trace,” a portion of the Old Trace pounded so deep by eons of human and animal traffic that riders on horseback could (and did) disappear from view.

Cypress Swamp

Or you might choose mystery-like the curious enchantment of Cypress Swamp, where those knobby cypress knees share dark waters with reclusive alligators, which may be spied upon by diligent detectives from the elevated boardwalk above.

Or maybe you prefer the majesty of endless acres of brilliant blue, from Ross Barnett Reservoir to Colbert’s Ferry to Pickwick Lake, where blue herons skim the surface and bald eagles sail the deep blue canopy overhead.

Magical, mysterious, majestic–however you picture the outdoor beauty of the Natchez Trace Parkway, be sure you picture a spectacular view around every bend, and a place so unspoiled you can easily feel the centuries slip away, not to mention everyday cares and troubles. The natural world of the Natchez Trace is truly picture perfect.

To get the most out of your Parkway explorations, we suggest you bring binoculars and hiking boots. And yes, you’ll want to have a camera to capture all that perfection, and for souvenirs to go with great memories!

The Sunken Trace

Winding 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, there are so many places to experience the wonderful nature on the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Find us on Facebook and Twitter to join the conversation, and follow us on Pinterest and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace to see beautiful photos of the Trace.

Download our 2014 Visitors Guide HERE. Visit the National Park Service website to learn more about visiting the Natchez Trace Parkway

TUPELO, MS – A special program of dulcimer music will be provided by the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2015, at the Parkway Visitor Center located at milepost 266 near Tupelo, Mississippi.

The North Mississippi Dulcimer Association teaches dulcimer history, tradition, craftsmanship, and music by sharing its knowledge and talents. The Appalachian mountain dulcimer is the first instrument developed in the United States. Dating back to the early 1800s, the dulcimer is an instrument whose very name means “sweet sound.” The National Park Service and the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association invite everyone to listen to the soft sweet sounds of the dulcimer and learn of its extensive history.

This program is free.  For additional information, call 662-680-4027 or 1-800-305-7417.

www.nps.gov/natr

Natchez Trace Parkway

There are many exciting and memorable places to visit along the historic 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway. From Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, you’ll have to the opportunity to take a break, stretch your legs and visit some extraordinary places, filled with beauty and 10,000 years of American history.

Natchez to Ridgeland:

Emerald Mound

Emerald Mound – Located at milepost 10.3, it’s the largest Mississippian period ceremonial mound in the country. It’s also the largest mound along the Parkway. Take yourself back in time and imagine what it was like to live along the Natchez Trace at Emerald Mound.

Mount Locust – Located at milepost 15.5, Mount Locust Inn is the only remaining inn on the Natchez Trace. It’s open year round (except on Christmas Day) and you’ll love learning more about the Trace’s history from the park rangers. Mount Locust allows you to see what the “Kaintucks” may have experienced at the stands.

The Sunken Trace

The Sunken Trace – Located at milepost 41. 5, the Sunken Trace is a highly popular spot. The trail is sunken due to thousands of travelers walking on the eroded soil. Travel the Sunken Trace and imagine what it would have been like thousands of years ago.

Ridgeland to Tupelo:

The Ross Barnett Reservoir is a must-see in the Ridgeland area. This beautiful, man-made body of water parallels the parkway for about eight miles. Relax, watch the sunset on the water and even fish. Enjoy a walk and take in the views at Reservoir Overlook at milepost 105.6.

Cypress Swamp – Located at milepost 122.0, walk on boardwalks through a water tupelo/bald cypress swamp. It’s a great spot for taking pictures!

Cypress Swamp

Little Mountain Overlook at Jeff Busby – This is one of the highest points in Mississippi along the Parkway. Enjoy the picnic area, campground and the stunning overlook, of course.

Bynum Mounds – This period burial mound site is located at milepost 232.4. The archeological site consisted of six mounds, five of which were excavated in the 1940’s. Two of the largest have been restored, and you can see them today. The interpretive exhibits tell the story of early residents of the Natchez Trace.

Chickasaw Village Site – This archeological site is at milepost 261.8 and reflects the village that once lived here. See the outlines of Chickasaw homes and walk a short nature trail and learn about the area. If you’re interested in a longer walk, the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail is available.

Tupelo to North Alabama:

Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center

The Natchez Trace Visitor Center – Visit Tupelo at milepost 266 to learn all about the Parkway! You can find a twelve-minute orientation film, interpretive displays about the cultural and natural history of the Trace and even a bookstore. This is the place where you can get your passport stamps for the Parkway, Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, Tupelo National Battlefield, and Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield.

The Old Trace – Find 13 Confederate grave sites at the Old Trace at milepost 269.14. The grave sites of these 13 unknown soldiers is an interesting places to stop.

Pharr Mounds

Pharr Mounds – Visit milepost 286.7 to see eight mounds between two – 18 feet high! Over 2,000 years ago, Pharr Mounds may have been filled with a village full of people. Learn about the mound building process and village life in this area.

Colbert Ferry – In the early 1800s, George Colbert operated a stand and a ferry at this spot. Today you can enjoy a picnic by the river, fish and boat on the Tennessee River. Visit Colbert Ferry at milepost 327.3 for a fun time.

Rock Spring Nature Trail – Located at milepost 330.2, this short half mile loop trail takes you past Colbert Creek. Walk the stepping stones and enjoy the beautiful nature.

Rock Spring Nature Trail

Tennessee:

Waterfall at Fall Hollow

Fall Hollow Trail – Love the view and sounds of waterfalls? Take a short walk at milepost 391.9 to view this pretty waterfall on the Natchez Trace.

The Tobacco Farm and Old Trace Drive – Located at milepost 401.4, this is a great place to learn about growing and drying tobacco. The two mile drive on the Old Trace has great views of the forest, and is one of two places you can be on the “Old Trace” without walking.

Jackson Falls – Located at milepost 404.7, this is a popular walk along the Parkway. You’ll find yourself walking down a steep trail into a small gorge – it’s well worth the walk! There are picnic tables and even a short trail to Baker Bluff Overlook.

Birdsong Hollow

Birdsong Hollow  – This spot provides spectacular views of the double-arched bridge on the Parkway. Did you know the bridge rises 155 feet above the valley below? It’s a must-see!

Winding 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, there are so many places to make a stop on the Natchez Trace Parkway! Find us on Facebook and Twitter to join the conversation, and follow us on Pinterest and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace to see beautiful photos of the Trace.

Download our 2014 Visitors Guide HERE

Visit the National Park Service website to learn more about visiting the Natchez Trace Parkway.

2014 Christmas Parades and Festivals Along the Natchez Trace Parkway

Santa is out on the Trace & you should be too!
photo credit: Jerry Brinegar

It’s Christmastime along the Natchez Trace Parkway! Eighteen beautiful communities dot the 444-mile scenic byway, and there are plenty of exciting holiday events for one and all. You can find all sorts of events here, but here are a few more you may not have made plans for just yet.

Natchez, Mississippi

Credit: visitnatchez.org

The Natchez Little Theater will present A Christmas Carol, the classic Christmas story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a old cranky man who had his Christmas spirits lifted by visits from spirits of a more ghostly quality. The show will go on Fridays, Saturdays, and Tuesdays at 7:30pm from December 5^th – 20^th. On Sundays, you can catch A Christmas Carol December 7^th, 14^th, and 21st at 2:00pm.

If you’re in the mood for a tasty adult beverage, check out Libations at Linden on Saturday, December 20^th. Admire the Christmas decorations at Linden and enjoy a famous Natchez Milk Punch. You can find tickets here.

Ridgeland, Mississippi

Credit: craftsmensguildofms.org

If you find yourself in Central Mississippi, don’t miss the Chimneyville Crafts Festival. The festival runs Friday, December 5^th through Sunday, December 7^th. Named the “Best Festival in Mississippi,” you can find fine crafts of wood, pottery, glass, metal, jewelry, and just about anything else! The preview party is Friday, December 5^th from 7-10pm.

Tupelo, Mississippi

Credit: Tupelo Main Street Association

Make a holiday stop in Elvis’s hometown! The 66th Annual Reed’s Tupelo Christmas Parade will be Monday, December 8th on the streets of downtown Tupelo.  The parade will begin at 6:30pm at the intersection of Main Street and Front Street.

Florence, Alabama

Florence, Alabama

From December 5^th through December 24^th, community groups and local individuals will create an alluring exhibition using nine, 12-foot tall spruce and fir trees to tell their stories. At The Trees of Christmas, decorators use a variety of uncharacteristic techniques and materials to carry out both traditional and unexpected trees. A wonderful and visual Christmas pleasure is in store for audiences who attend this one of a kind exhibit.

Franklin, Tennessee

Santa Steps Out in Franklin, TN

Join the locals in Historic Downtown Franklin, TN where Main Street will be packed with revelers for the annual Franklin Christmas Parade. The parade starts at 2:00pm on December 6^th. Once the parade is over, be sure to check out the excellent choices for food and drink in town!

Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee

The Annual Christmas Parade in Leiper’s Fork, TN

The nearly world-famous, quirkiest, most charming homegrown Christmas Parade begins at 2:00 pm on December 13th in Leiper’s Fork, TN. Check it out here!

Nashville, Tennessee

Country Christmas in Nashville

From November 14, 2014 – January 3, 2015, the magic of the Christmas season comes to life at Gaylord Opryland’s A Country Christmas in Nashville, TN. Visitors can enjoy snow slides, ice skating and riveting shows. You’ll find it all here.

You can also celebrate the holidays in Music City with a dinner and show on the General Jackson Showboat! The show will keep you entertained with the Heart of Christmas in the Victorian Theater. A six‐piece show band and six outstanding featured performers fill the stage with colorful production numbers of Christmas favorites like “Sleigh Ride,” “Winter Wonderland” and Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song.” Fill your belly too with a selection of holiday foods from master chefs on board. The show is going on now through December 23^rd from 6:15pm to 9:45pm.

Winter is an awesome time to visit the Natchez Trace Parkway (here’s why.)

Frozen Waterfall on the Parkway

Here’s to a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from the Natchez Trace Compact! To plan your trip, give us a call at 866.TRACE56 (872-2356) or visit scenictrace.com. Get social with us and follow the Natchez Trace on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace

Download our 2014 Visitors Guide HERE

HEADQUARTERS, TUPELO, MS: “The Natchez Trace Parkway experienced a significant increase in October recreational visits in 2014 over 2013 figures,” stated Superintendent Mary Risser. “This year, 747,606 people used the Parkway in October compared to 546,421 who were counted in 2013.”

These numbers continue to put the Natchez Trace Parkway on track to be among the top ten most visited National Park Service sites.  The Natchez Trace Parkway has numerous recreational activities to match any interest or experience level.  Whether camping, motorcycling, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, or horseback riding, there are countless opportunities to experience the history, culture, and natural resources of the area.

To find out more about upcoming programs and general information about the Natchez Trace Parkway, visit www.nps.gov/natr

TUPELO, MS – A special program of dulcimer music will be provided by the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2014, at the Parkway Visitor Center located at milepost 266 near Tupelo, Mississippi.

The North Mississippi Dulcimer Association teaches dulcimer history, tradition, craftsmanship, and music by sharing its knowledge and talents. The Appalachian mountain dulcimer is the first instrument developed in the United States. Dating back to the early 1800s, the dulcimer is an instrument whose very name means “sweet sound.” The National Park Service and the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association invite everyone to listen to the soft sweet sounds of the dulcimer and learn of its extensive history.

This program is free.  For additional information, call 662-680-4027 or 1-800-305-7417.

www.nps.gov/natr

It’s that time of year for gift giving, and the communities along the Natchez Trace Parkway have wonderful local shops where you can fulfill all of your holiday shopping needs!

We encourage travelers along the Natchez Trace Parkway to shop locally and support small town communities this Christmas. From Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, there are many local and family-owned businesses with rare and beautiful gifts you can’t find anywhere else. Purchasing from large corporations could mean ending up with the same ole ole. Buy uniquely and locally!

Do you live in one of the communities along the Trace? Shopping locally benefits you and your very own community in ways you couldn’t imagine. Encourage your family and friends to shop locally this season, too.

The Natchez Trace Compact pulled together a list of the communities along the Natchez Trace Parkway to help guide you with more information. Look for local shops where you can find fun, creative and one-of-a-kind items during gift giving time. Don’t forget about gift certificates, as well!

Mississippi:

• Natchez
• Raymond
• Ridgeland
• French Camp
• Tishomingo
• Port Gibson
• Clinton
• Kosciusko
• Tupelo

Alabama:

• Florence
• Sheffield
• Tuscumbia
• Muscle Shoals

Tennessee:

• Collinwood
• Hohenwald
• Leiper’s Fork
• Franklin
• Nashville

Remember to shop locally this Christmas! You’ll be sure to find unique gifts for your loved ones this holiday season.

Get social with The Natchez Trace and follow on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace

TUPELO, MS – The Tombigbee Pioneer Group will demonstrate pioneer-era crafts and skills at the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2014. The presentations will show the challenges faced, and creative solutions developed, by those Americans who lived in the area from the 1700s to 1840.

The public is invited to watch pioneer lifestyle activities that often include basket-making, spinning, weaving, knitting, and other traditional craft demonstrations. Leather-working and mountain dulcimer demonstrations are usually offered throughout the day. Children are invited to participate by dressing up in pioneer clothes and trying these activities firsthand.

This program is free to the public. The Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center is located at milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, near Tupelo, Mississippi. For additional information, please call 662-680-4027 or 1-800-305-7417.

www.nps.gov

A recreational vehicle in fall along the Natchez Trace Parkway. (NPS Photo)

The Natchez Trace Parkway is popular for RVers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and travelers alike. No commercial traffic is allowed on the Trace, and its smooth roadway and 50 MPH speed limit makes it a leisurely travel experience. The 444 mile scenic route takes you through woodlands, meadows, and hills, past waterfalls, historic sites, and across rivers and streams. Indians, explorers, frontiersmen, soldiers, boatmen, bandits, adventurers, and pilgrims have walked its length. Traveling it with a recreational vehicle (RV) is an exciting and memorable experience.

RVs are a popular way to see the Parkway for many reasons. Frequent pullouts provided at historic and scenic points of interest will accommodate even the largest RV. Plus, there are free campgrounds along the Trace on a first come basis. Commercial campgrounds can be found just off the Parkway all along its route.

Most stops along the Natchez Trace Parkway are accessible to RVs, with the exception of those marked “no circular drive”. The following sites are not accessible to RVs:

• Grindstone Ford/Mangum Mound at milepost 45.7 (height restriction of 11 feet 6 inches)
• Twenty-mile Bottom Overlook at milepost 278.4
• Old Trace Drive at milepost 375.8
• Devil’s Backbone State Recreation Area at milepost 394
• Old Trace Drive at milepost 401.4

The length restriction for RVs is 55 feet, including a tow vehicle, and the height restriction is 14 feet. The Parkway can accommodate an RV weighing up to 40,000 pounds. Click here to learn more.

So why should you try exploring the Natchez Trace in an RV?

Cyclists on the Natchez Trace

The Nature: If you’re interested in the great outdoors, a RV is a great way to vacation. You can tour famous landmarks, visit state and national parks off the Trace, and simply enjoy fresh air and natural settings. Take a hike. Ride your bike. Get some exercise or simply do nothing, except your surroundings, of course.

Now is the perfect time to visit the Natchez Trace Parkway because you can view the beautiful fall foliage! The maple, hickory, oak and other hardwood trees are changing colors, painting a stunning fall color backdrop for visitors.

Click here to learn more about when and where to see fall foliage.

The Campgrounds: There are more than a dozen campgrounds along the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor, three in the park, and many others just outside the park. The three Parkway campgrounds are free, primitive, and available on a first come, first serve basis. Keep in mind: they do not offer electricity, showers, or dump stations.

These campgrounds are spread out along the Parkway: Rocky Springs (Milepost 54), Jeff Busby (Milepost 193.1) and Meriwether Lewis (Milepost 385). Many of the other campgrounds along the Parkway corridor offer electricity, showers, and dump stations. Many also have hiking trails and biking paths, perfect for fun family activities.

Check the complete updated list of all the campgrounds along the Parkway for the locations and services offered by private and public campgrounds.

Jeff Busby Site

The Comforts of Home: With a RV vacation, you can have the best of both worlds. You can enjoy the great outdoors with more comforts than tent camping. Whether you own a RV or try a rental, most RVs are well equipped. You’ll likely have a kitchen with microwave, fridge and stove, television, beds, living and dining areas, and a bathroom with shower. Many RVs have slide out rooms that increase the living area. You can sit outside under your awning, get out of the rain if the weather changes, and turn on the A.C. if it gets too warm.

RV on the Parkway – Fall Foliage

The Family: Family members of all ages tend to connect with each other when they are away from their normal routine enjoying a simpler lifestyle. While the RV is comfortable, it’s a small living area for large families. If you are renting, bear this in mind in choosing the size of your rental RV. During the day, spend time outdoors or in different activities (there are many recreational activities along the Trace).

The Kids: A RV vacation can be a fantastic way to travel with children. They can go out to play or take part in campground activities. There are likely to be other kids to meet and new places to explore. Children of all ages will enjoy an old-fashioned campfire complete with stories, songs and stargazing. And most kids think it’s pretty cool to be in a “home on wheels.” RVing tends to bring the family closer together with more communication and the sharing of good times.

Family Picnic on the Natchez Trace

The Affordability: The question of whether it’s cheaper to take a RV vacation doesn’t have a “one size fits all” answer. It depends on the type of vacation you want to take, as well as the way in which you plan to RV. You can compare the costs of renting a suitable RV to the costs of hotels, airfare or other means of travel. Many visitors like to cook and roast s’mores and hotdogs over campfires–not only is this affordable, but it adds to the RVing experience!

The Driving Experience:  Driving yourself gives you control over where you go and the pace of your travel. You don’t have the hassle of airline counters and keeping up with schedules. You can stop and take a break when you choose. You don’t need a special license to drive an RV. Sure, it takes some getting used to — but the number of RVs on the road should tell you that it’s doable. If you feel the need to, practice before you load up your passengers.

The Flexibility: In an RV, you have the flexibility to change locations. It’s easy to find a good balance between seeing different areas, the amount of time spent driving and ensuring you have enough time to relax. An RV can give you a lot of freedom and spontaneity and you can create your own adventure as you go along your way. You can explore the Natchez Trace at your own pace!

Visit the National Park Service website to learn more about RVing the Natchez Trace Parkway.

To plan your trip, give us a call at 866.TRACE56 (872-2356) or visit scenictrace.com. Get social with us and follow the Natchez Trace on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace

Download our 2014 Visitors Guide HERE

Fantastic news! The Natchez Trace Parkway saw a significant jump in the number of visitors last month compared to September 2013. In September of this year, 728,172 visitors used the Natchez Trace, compared to 534,955 in September 2013.

Year-to-date, the Trace has entertained 4,675,984 visitors compared to 4,482,480 in 2013. These numbers continue to put the Natchez Trace Parkway on track to be among the top ten most visited National Park Service sites.

There’s a reason why people keep coming back for more. The Natchez Trace Parkway has numerous recreational activities to match any interest or experience level. Whether camping, motorcycling, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, or horseback riding, there are countless opportunities to experience the history, culture, and natural resources of the area.

The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail in Tennessee is one of the four Parkway trails available for horseback riding. Photo courtesy: NPS

In addition to recreational activities, the Parkway offers beautiful views along the way. In fact, right now is one of the best times to visit because people can view the stunning fall foliage. This scenic route is known for its fall colors, extending an impressive 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. See the latest fall color reports here.

Freedom Hills Overlook

Traveling can work up an appetite. Visitors should also enjoy a bite to eat at one of the delicious restaurants along the way. Southern food, BBQ, seafood…. you name it. If your Natchez Trace trip calls for an overnight stay or two, there are plenty of wonderful places to rest up. Whether you’re looking for a quaint B&B or a newer hotel, there are a wide variety of options.

Breakfast at the Loveless Cafe

For a visit to a byway rich in history, drive the Natchez Trace Parkway, established to commemorate the historical significance of the Old Natchez Trace. Originally a series of trails that stretched 500 miles through the Chickasaw and Choctaw lands from Mississippi to Tennessee, throughout the years it has gained a rich history that continues to fascinate visitors who travel in the footsteps of those who’ve gone before.

The Sunken Trace at milepost 41.5

Are you a cyclist? Good news — the Parkway is a cyclist-friendly route. Commercial traffic is not allowed, so this environment allows cyclists to be worry-free of semi-trucks, deliver trucks or dump trucks. There aren’t any stop signs or stoplights–simply pure beauty and the sounds of chirping birds and wind blowing through the trees. Access to the ramp is via on/off ramps, which means there is no need to worry about cross traffic, as well. All of these perks make the Parkway extremely important to the biking audience.

Biking the Natchez Trace Parkway

There’s a reason why so many people love the Natchez Trace Parkway–it’s one of Mississippi, Alabama’s and Tennessee’s best-kept secrets!

To learn more about the Natchez Trace Parkway and plan your trip, give us a call at 866.TRACE56 (872-2356) or visit scenictrace.com. You should also check out helpful information about the Natchez Trace Parkway on National Park Service website here.

Get social and follow the Natchez Trace on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace

Download our Visitors Guide below:

HEADQUARTERS, TUPELO, MS: “The Natchez Trace Parkway experienced a significant increase in September recreational visits in 2014 over 2013 figures,” stated Superintendent Mary Risser. “This year, 728,172 people used the Parkway in September compared to 534,955 who were counted in 2013.”

These numbers continue to put the Natchez Trace Parkway on track to be among the top ten most visited National Park Service sites.  The Natchez Trace Parkway has numerous recreational activities to match any interest or experience level.  Whether camping, motorcycling, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, or horseback riding, there are countless opportunities to experience the history, culture, and natural resources of the area.

To find out more about upcoming programs and general information about the Natchez Trace Parkway, visit www.nps.gov/natr.

TUPELO, MS – A special program of dulcimer music will be provided by the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2014, at the Parkway Visitor Center located at milepost 266 near Tupelo, Mississippi.

The North Mississippi Dulcimer Association teaches dulcimer history, tradition, craftsmanship, and music by sharing its knowledge and talents. The Appalachian mountain dulcimer is the first instrument developed in the United States. Dating back to the early 1800s, the dulcimer is an instrument whose very name means “sweet sound.” The National Park Service and the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association invite everyone to listen to the soft sweet sounds of the dulcimer and learn of its extensive history.

This program is free.  For additional information, call 662-680-4027 or 1-800-305-7417.

www.nps.gov/natr

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 401 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov. 

TUPELO, MS – The Tombigbee Pioneer Group will demonstrate pioneer-era crafts and skills at the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2014. The presentations will show the challenges faced, and creative solutions developed, by those Americans who lived in the area from the 1700s to 1840. 

The public is invited to watch pioneer lifestyle activities that often include basket-making, spinning, weaving, knitting, and other traditional craft demonstrations. Leather-working and mountain dulcimer demonstrations are usually offered throughout the day. Children are invited to participate by dressing up in pioneer clothes and trying these activities firsthand.

This program is free to the public. The Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center is located at milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, near Tupelo, Mississippi. For additional information, please call 662-680-4027 or 1-800-305-7417.

www.nps.gov 

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 401 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile drive through exceptional scenery and 10,000 years of American history. You wouldn’t get the full experience of the Parkway if you didn’t stop at one of the many scenic overlooks. When traveling the Natchez Trace you will encounter breathtaking attractions and overlooks.

Mississippi:

Twentymile Bottom Overlook near Tupelo, MS, is located on the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 278.4. Twentymile Bottom, now cultivated, was typical of the many low areas along streams through which the Natchez Trace passed. From the overlook you can see the bottom land of Twentymile Creek. This land is typical of the terrain encountered by early travelers of the Natchez Trace.

In 1812, Reverend John Johnson stopped at old Factors Stand near this bottom and wrote this account of bottomland travel, “I have this day swam my horse five times, bridged one creek, forded several others besides the swamp we had to wade through. At night we had a shower of rain. Took up my usual lodging on the ground in company with several Indians.”

Twentymile Bottom Overlook

Reservoir Overlook  – This 50 square mile reservoir is formed by an earth filled dam.

At the beautiful Reservoir Overlook, bicyclists, walkers and joggers can access the Multi-Use Trail from Reservoir Overlook’s parking area. This is the northern section of the trail.Walk or bike with family and friends for miles and miles. This route helps bicyclists avoid heavy car traffic through the Jackson/Ridgeland/Madison area. The greenery along the Multi-Use trail allows visitors to truly enjoy the outdoors.

Reservoir Overlook

Old Town Overlook – At Old Town Overlook, located at milepost 263.9, hikers can continue north for 2 miles to reach the Parkway Visitor Center, or continue south for 2 miles to reach the Chickasaw Village Site. This section of Scenic Trail is open to hikers only, and requires walking on the Parkway for road and creek crossings. The Old Town Overlook parking area provides parking and access to the Tupelo section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail.

Black Belt Overlook:  Ages ago this area was under an arm of the ocean. Shells and other marine organisms were deposited to form limestone. Exposure of the limestone to all types of weathering gradually changed it into a heavy fertile soil of various colors. The dominant black soil has given the area the name black belt, or black prairie. The black belt extends south beyond Columbus, MS then heads eastward across nearly all of Alabama. Formerly one of America’s great cotton areas, it is now considered excellent pasture for livestock.

Black Belt Overlook

Alabama:

Freedom Hills Overlook: On the way up the trail there are two benches where you can stop and rest before continuing on up the hill. Another bench is placed conveniently at the top of the trail.

Freedom Hills Overlook

Tennessee:

Baker Bluff Overlook: The Family Farm Working in Harmony With the Environment. The plaque is a depiction of what you see from the bluff of farm land, river and fields. A trail leads from Bakers Bluff to Jackson Falls.

Baker Bluff Overlook

Birdsong Hollow and HWY 96 Double-Arched Bridge:

Completed in 1994, the double-arched bridge carries Trace travelers 1,648 feet across the valley and Tennessee Highway 96.

The bridge can be viewed from two locations. Just north of the bridge there is a parking area with a view of the bridge and the valley below. Just south of the bridge is an exit ramp that takes you down to Tennessee Highway 96. At the bottom of the hill there is a parking area with a view looking up at the entire length of the bridge.

Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge over Birdsong Hollow

Swan View Overlook: This overlook is located on the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 392.5. From here you can see the water tower in Hohenwald, Tennessee, the highest town between New Orleans and Chicago.

Photo taken at Swan View Overlook

Water Valley Overlook: Water Valley Overlook is located at milepost 411.8. Take the time to pull off the Trace and drive up the short road to the top of the ridge. From the top you will be rewarded with a 180 degree view of Water Valley.

Water Valley Overlook

So come unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenic overlooks this fall on the Natchez Trace Parkway. To learn more and plan your trip, give us a call at 866.TRACE56 (872-2356) or visit scenictrace.com. Follow the Natchez Trace on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace

HEADQUARTERS, TUPELO, MS: The National Park Service and its partners, the Natchez Trace Parkway Association and Adventure Cycling Association, announce the beginning of a campaign to “Share the Parkway.” The campaign will kick-off with three focus group meetings next week during which participants will discuss specific questions about enhancing user safety on the Parkway.

“You have a national park is your own backyard!” reminds Superintendent Mary Risser. “Congress established the Natchez Trace Parkway as a part of the National Park Service system in 1938. The Parkway commemorates the historic travel corridor known as the Natchez Trace, which is one of the oldest transportation routes in North America. The Parkway’s narrow lanes are integral to the designed landscape and a leisurely driving experience – for which the Parkway was created.”

In 2013, there were 6 million people who used and visited the Parkway, which makes it the 8^th most visited National Park Service site in the nation. When the commuters in the Tupelo and Ridgeland area are included in the equation, more than 14.7 million people used the Parkway – all of whom are visitors to this unique National Park Service unit.

The “Share the Parkway” campaign will strive to create an atmosphere of responsibility and ownership of the Natchez Trace Parkway as a unit of the National Park Service and as a recreational treasure that should be shared safety by all Parkway users. Three focus group meetings will be held to gain an understanding of the perspectives about safety and shared use of the Parkway from various road users and the general public.

In the Ridgeland/Jackson area, the focus group meeting will be:

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Indian Cycle Bike Shop

677 S. Pear Orchard Road

Ridgeland, MS

3 pm until 7 pm

In the Tupelo area, the focus group meeting will be:

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Bancorp South Conference Center

387 East Main Street

Tupelo, MS

3 pm until 7 pm

In the Nashville area, the focus group meeting will be:

Friday, September 26, 2014

Warner Park Nature Center

7311 Highway 100

Nashville, TN

10 am until 2 pm

At the focus group meetings, participants will discuss specific questions, such as “What are some ways that cyclists and motorists can safely share the Parkway? What is the significance of the Natchez Trace Parkway for you? How can we increase cooperation, understanding, and respect between cyclists and motorists? What are the best ways to reach out and educate local and visiting motorists and cyclists about sharing the road safely? What are participant’s impressions of the sharrows? Signs?

Information from the focus groups will be used to help develop a comprehensive project to enhance safety on the Parkway for all of our visitors.

If you would like to participate, but cannot attend one of the focus group meetings, send written comments to:

Superintendent

Natchez Trace Parkway

2860 Natchez Trace Parkway

Tupelo, MS 38804

www.nps.gov

About the National Park Service.  More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 398 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov. 

TUPELO, MS – A special program of dulcimer music will be provided by the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2014, at the Parkway Visitor Center located at milepost 266 near Tupelo, Mississippi.

The North Mississippi Dulcimer Association teaches dulcimer history, tradition, craftsmanship, and music by sharing its knowledge and talents. The Appalachian mountain dulcimer is the first instrument developed in the United States. Dating back to the early 1800s, the dulcimer is an instrument whose very name means “sweet sound.” The National Park Service and the North Mississippi Dulcimer Association invite everyone to listen to the soft sweet sounds of the dulcimer and learn of its extensive history.

This program is free.  For additional information, call 662-680-4027 or 1-800-305-7417.

 www.nps.gov/natr

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 401 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.