Picnic on the Trace

Ahh… picnics. They’re defined as “a meal that is eaten outdoors especially during a trip away from home; a trip or party that includes a meal eaten outdoors: something that is pleasant or easy.” How could anyone not love them with a description like that? Picnics are a refreshing, old-fashioned activity that gives travelers the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with a delicious sandwich–or something equally as simple and tasty–in hand.

Whether you enjoy a big blanket spread or relaxing at a wooden bench beneath the trees, the Natchez Trace Parkway offers some of the best picnic spots. In fact, the Tennesseean asked their readers and social media followers to name their favorite picnic places, and there’s no question the Natchez Trace made the list. Readers said “Any of the stops along the Natchez Trace are good picnic points,” while some described it as “a progressive picnic with one course at various stops along the route.”

Because this historic 444-mile route provides gorgeous scenic views in a calming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a fantastic picnic experience. There are over 90 sites along the Natchez Trace Parkway, with many providing multiple picnic tables in shaded areas.

Here are available picnics spots and milepost numbers along the Parkway:

Tennessee:

• Garrison Creek – 427.6
• Old Trace – 426.3
• Burns Branch – 425.4
• Water Valley Overlook – 411.8
• Jackson Falls – 404.7
• Meriwether Lewis – 385.9
• Metal Ford and Buffalo River – 382.8
• Jacks Branch – 377.8
• Glenrock Branch – 364.5
• Cypress Creek – 342.5

Alabama:

• Lauderdale – 328.7
• Colbert Ferry – 327.3
• Bear Creek – 313.0

Mississippi:

• Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway – 293.2
• Pharr Mounds – 286.7
• Chickasaw Council House – 251.1
• Chickasaw Village Site – 261.8
• Monroe Mission – 245.6
• Hernando de Soto – 243.3
• Witch Dance – 233.2
• Ballard Creek – 201.3
• Jeff Busby Creek -193.1
• Bethel Mission – 176.3
• Holly Hill – 154.3
• Robinson Road – 135.5
• River Bend – 122.6
• West Florida Boundary – 107.9
• Dean Stand – 73.5
• Rocky Springs – 54.8
• Owens Creek Waterfall – 52.4
• North Fork Coles Creek – 23.0
• Mud Island Creek – 22.0
• Coles Creek – 17.5
• Mount Locust – 15.5
• Turpin Creek – 12.1

Whether it’s a ham and cheese sandwich brought from home or meatloaf and mac n’ cheese from your favorite Southern restaurant along the Trace, there’s no better time to visit the Natchez Trace Parkway for a picnic. Ready-made meals in a lovely spot with good company? Yes, please!

Don’t forget to pack these things on your next picnic:

• Napkins, utensils and plates
• A cooler to store cold food items and beverages
• Bug spray
• Blanket or spread to sit on
• Trash bag for your garbage

Come unwind and create your own fun memories 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 and Instagram @TheNatchezTrace