Natchez Trace Travel

Natchez Trace Fall Foliage Photo Contest

2011-10-01T19:22:00.000-05:00

NatchezTraceTravel.com News Release - Natchez Trace Fall Foliage Photo Contest

Release date: October 1, 2011

Contact:

Randy Fought

NatchezTraceTravel.com - Natchez Trace Bed & Breakfast Reservation Service

PO Box 826

Madison, TN 37116

800.377.2770 or info@natcheztracetravel.com

Fall foliage season on the Natchez Trace Parkway is just around the corner. This year, folks can enter their fall foliage pictures of the parkway anytime from October 1 through November 23 in a Natchez Trace Fall Foliage Photo Contest. The parkway offers numerous opportunities for enjoying fall foliage - scenic overlooks, waterfalls, streams, river crossings, historic sites, sunken roads and sections of the 200+ year-old original Natchez Trace. Each contestant may enter up to three pictures.

We can't predict the exact fall foliage peak dates along each section of the 444 mile-long Natchez Trace but generally…Tennessee is at or near peak foliage colors from mid to late October, northwest Alabama and northeast Mississippi from late October to early November and central Mississippi early to mid November.

1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes will be awarded to the top three pictures. The 1st place winner will receive a $300 B&B gift certificate from the reservation service, 2nd place winner a $200 B&B gift certificate and the 3rd place winner a $100 B&B gift certificate. Each of the winners will also receive one or more $25 dining certificates from restaurants located near the parkway. Winners will be determined by public voting on the website.

Go to www.NatchezTraceTravel.com for more details on prizes, fall foliage ‘when and where’ tips with pictures from past years, how to enter the contest and how to vote for pictures.

About NatchezTraceTravel.com:

NatchezTraceTravel.com is a travel guide about the Natchez Trace Parkway and the towns and areas near the Trace. Travelers can find pictures, information and maps for each of the 90+ interpretive on the parkway as well as many of the major attractions located near the Trace.

NatchezTraceTravel.com is also the online home of the Natchez Trace B&B Reservation Service. The reservation service works with 40 B&Bs, cabins, cottages and historic hotels located near the parkway. For each of the lodging options the website provides information, photo galleries, guest room pictures, descriptions and rates, maps and area attractions. Free itinerary planning is available for tourists, bicyclists and motorcyclists online and at 800.377.2770.

About Natchez Trace Parkway:

Started in the late 1930s, the modern Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444 mile-long, scenic road that generally follows the path of the Old Natchez Trace from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. The parkway is a federal park maintained by the National Park Service. www.nps.gov/natr/

-- NatchezTraceTravel.com --

Station Cafe Diner - Thomastown, Mississippi

2011-06-23T16:37:00.002-05:00

Half a mile west of the Natchez Trace Parkway at the intersection of Mississippi Highways 429 and 43 sits an oasis for the hungry or thirsty traveler. This crossroads is known as Thomastown and right in the corner you will find The Station Cafe.

The Station Cafe is listed on our list of markets that are located close to the Trace. Several bicyclists have reported that the food and hospitality are excellent. One group of three ladies were bicycling north heading towards Kosciusko when they decided to pull off the Trace at the Highway 429 exit (near milepost 146) and go to the cafe for lunch. The folks at the cafe saw them pedaling up the road on the extremely hot day and met them with glasses of iced tea.

A couple of weeks ago I finally had the chance to dine at the cafe - twice. Once on my way to Natchez and then a few days later on my return trip north on the Trace. Both meals were spot on - a grilled chicken salad one day and a BLT and fries the other day.

Owner Bobbye and her assistant were very hospitable to me and everyone that came in for a meal. They told stories about meeting people from all over the world who have pulled off the Trace to dine at their cafe. Looking at their guest book which diners are encouraged to sign I recognized several names of folks who we had assisted with their biking itineraries and B&B reservations on the Trace.

If you need additional supplies or gas the Thomastown General Store is located next door. Have a letter to mail - the Thomastown Post Office is on the other corner. Everything you need right there at one little crossroads half a mile from the parkway. Only thing missing for Natchez Trace travelers is a B&B - so they could stay overnight!

Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Sunday: closed

10 reasons why the Natchez Trace is an excellent motorcycle route.

2011-04-12T17:10:00.000-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why should motorcyclists consider riding the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Listed below are what we think are the top 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route. After you read these articles you will understand why there are often more motorcycles on the Trace than cars!

Now that you are interested in motorcycling the Natchez Trace Parkway go to NatchezTraceTravel.com's Motorcycling the Natchez Trace Parkway for more information.

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Bed and breakfasts along and near the Trace.

2011-04-11T11:54:00.002-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #10: There are many "motorcycle friendly" bed and breakfasts located along and near the Trace.

Taking an overnight trip on the Natchez Trace without advance planning can be somewhat difficult, as the Park Service does not permit any advertising, either in the form of signs or in literature at their visitor's centers. Also, through the rural areas where the Trace passes there are very few hotels located within a few miles of the Trace.

Fortunately, there are bed and breakfasts located up and down the Trace that are a short ride away. The bed and breakfasts are very "motorcycle friendly".

The Natchez Trace Bed and Breakfast Reservation Service can help you locate the perfect spots to make your overnight stays a memorable part of your trip. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide tips about routes, lunch stops, terrain, etc.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Side trails: antebellum and victorian homes, sunken roads, civil war battlefields and southern towns

2011-04-11T11:44:00.003-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #9: Numerous side trails take you past antebellum and victorian homes, sunken roads, civil war battlefields and southern towns.

Motorcyclists can exit off the Natchez Trace onto numerous country back roads where you will see a slice of the modern day south and remnants of what the south looked like before the Civil War when the area was known as the "Old Southwest".

There are several "loop routes" where you can start your ride on the Trace, ride on the Trace, exit the Trace onto a back road, ride past interesting sites and attractions, re-enter the Trace, and ride back to where you started.

For example, 15 miles north of Natchez you can start your bike route at Mount Locust on the Trace, bike south on the Trace for about 5 miles, exit onto Mississippi Highway 553, bike over to Emerald Mound, continue north on 553 past several antebellum homes, the historic town of Church Hill and Springfield Plantation (where Andrew and Rachel Jackson were married), back to the Trace and bike five miles south back to Mount Locust.

Many of the major "off the Trace" attractions, like Windsor Ruins (pictured above), Shiloh National Military Park, Elvis Presley's Birthplace and Vicksburg National Military Park are mentioned on NatchezTraceTravel.com with a description, pictures, directions from the Trace and a locator map.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Gas stations, markets and restaurants are nearby.

2011-04-08T10:55:00.005-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #8: Contrary to popular belief, there are gas stations, markets and restaurants near the Trace.

It is true that none of these services are right "on" the Trace - it is a national park. Just beyond the woods there are often markets, gas stations and restaurants within a couple miles or less of dozens of the Trace access/exit points.

But, you need to know where they are. Advertising is forbidden on the parkway so there are no signs pointing you to the nearest gas station. We have a quick list of markets that you can print on the front and back of one sheet of paper at NatchezTraceTravel.com and take with you on your Natchez Trace trip.

For more in-depth information about what you can find at each exit we have put together a list for each of the three states that the Trace travels through:
Tennessee Access / Exit Roads - Food & Gas
Alabama Access / Exit Roads - Food & Gas
Mississippi Access / Exit Roads - Food & Gas

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Restroom facilities on the Trace are available about every 20 miles.

2011-04-08T10:08:00.006-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #7: Restroom facilities on the Trace are available about every twenty miles.

The national park service maintains restroom facilities at 16 of their 95 attractions along the Trace. When you are biking on the Trace there will usually be a park service restroom within twenty miles or less. There are a few stretches where they are spaced further apart.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Most of the stops on the Trace that have restroom facilities also have a picnic area located in a nearby, shaded area. For motorcyclists packing a lunch or snack these are great places to stop.

Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Historical and Nature Attractions are Everywhere

2011-04-01T19:09:00.003-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #6: All along the Trace through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, historical and nature attractions offer interesting breaks and rest stops.

As you ride the Natchez Trace there are an abundance of things to see and do. Take a short rest break at a waterfall, skip rocks on a wooded creek, see a section of the "Old Trace", view an Indian burial mound, read about an historical event, take a short walk along a self-guided trail, take in the view of a scenic overlook, see rivers that frontier travelers either forded across or paid to ferry across, visit a once thriving town that no longer exists, visit a 200 year-old inn, see some pivotal Civil War battlefields...

The parkway offers 95 "sights to see" along the length of the Trace. 26 are along the 102 mile-long Tennessee section of the Trace, 7 are along the 31 mile-long Alabama section of the Trace and 62 are along the 310 mile-long Mississippi section of the Trace.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Commercial traffic is prohibited.
Traffic is generally very light except around Tupelo and Jackson.
No stop signs or stop lights. Access on and off the Trace is via on/off ramps which means no need to worry about cross traffic.
The parkway is clean and smooth. One motorcyclist said it was "like riding on a cloud".
Scenery is awesome. Instead of utility poles and buildings, the Trace is lined with forests, farmland, creeks and beautiful vistas.
All along the Trace through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, historical and nature attractions offer interesting breaks and rest stops.
Restroom facilities on the Trace are available about every twenty miles.
Contrary to popular belief, there are gas stations, markets and restaurants near the Trace.
Numerous side trails take you past antebellum and victorian homes, sunken roads, civil war battlefields and southern towns.
There are many "motorcycle friendly" bed and breakfasts located along and near the Trace.

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Scenery is awesome.

2011-04-01T16:42:00.006-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #5: Scenery is awesome. Instead of utility poles and buildings, the Trace is lined with forests, farmland, creeks and beautiful vistas.

The park service prohibits advertising on the Trace. Even the on/off ramps are void of advertising.

No utility poles lining the road, no billboards or adverting signs - just beautiful scenery to enjoy as you bike along.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? The parkway is clean and smooth.

2011-03-30T15:27:00.002-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #4: The parkway is clean and smooth. One motorcyclist said it was "like riding on a cloud".

The asphalt pavement on the Natchez Trace Parkway creates a very smooth ride.

The prohibition of commercial traffic on the Trace eliminates almost all heavy vehicle use. Heavy trucks tear up roads. Commercial hauling is also prohibited which means dump trucks and other vehicles that might throw trash/rocks/debris on the Trace are not allowed.

The park service does an excellent job of keeping the Trace clean of any trash, debris or tree limbs that fall on the Trace. No wonder the Trace is "like riding on a cloud"!

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? No stop signs or stop lights.

2011-03-30T15:06:00.005-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #3: No stop signs or stop lights. Access on and off the Trace is via on/off ramps which means no need to worry about cross traffic.

You could ride the entire length of the Trace without ever stopping! What is most important about the absence of stop signs and stop lights is there is no cross traffic. Motorcyclists don't have to watch for cars driving across the Trace at high speeds. The picture here shows a typical off ramp.

Access to the Trace from highways and major roads is provided by an on ramp that intersects with the Trace at a 90 degree angle. Cars entering the Trace must stop before turning onto the Trace (i.e. no merging ramps where the car enters the Trace at a high rate of speed).

There are some very lightly traveled back roads that don't have on/off ramps onto the Trace. The back road has a stop sign at the Trace intersection.

If you are looking for a highway or road that accesses the Natchez Trace Parkway go to NatchezTraceTravel.com at the following links:

There you will find, for each highway, the parkway's milepost number, nearby towns and cities and a map of the highway/Trace intersection and nearby attractions, towns and bed and breakfasts.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace? Traffic is generally very light.

2011-03-28T17:47:00.003-05:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #2: Traffic is generally very light except around Tupelo and Jackson.

Most of the parkway passes through sparsely and lightly populated areas. Because of this, combined with the 50 mph speed limit and the prohibition of commercial traffic, most of the traffic is done by people enjoying the Trace. The Natchez Trace Parkway is meant for recreational traffic. When the weather is nice there are often more motorcycles on the Trace than cars.

However, people do use the parkway to "commute" to work. Commute traffic is minimal through rural areas and very light near small towns located along the Trace. But, commute traffic is very heavy in the Tupelo and Jackson areas.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Why Motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway? Commercial traffic is prohibited.

2011-03-28T13:43:00.011-05:00

The 444 mile long route stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why motorcycle the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #1: Commercial traffic is prohibited.

The National Park Service prohibits commercial traffic on the Natchez Trace Parkway. This means motorcyclists don't have to worry about semi-trucks, dump trucks, delivery trucks, buses, etc.

For the most part the vast majority of motorized vehicles on the Trace are cars, pickup trucks and, of course, motorcycles.

At each highway access point to the Trace there are "No Commercial Vehicle" signs posted on the on-ramps and on the Trace itself going both north and south. Any commercial vehicle that disregards these signs takes a huge risk of a heavy federal fine if a park ranger spots them.

The absence of large trucks makes the Natchez Trace Parkway an enjoyable motorcycle route. The only "large" vehicles you will encounter on the Trace are RVs and park service mowing and maintenance equipment. RVs are allowed on the Trace because they are "recreational" vehicles.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent motorcycle route:

Family biking the Natchez Trace in late December to raise money.

2010-12-26T09:44:00.002-06:00

From December 24 to December 31, Miranda Muir (age 10), Marybeth Hamilton, and Stuart Muir, are riding their three-person bike down the Natchez Trace 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi.

Their goal is to raise $5000 for Bikes Not Bombs. This grassroots organization takes in more than 5,000 bikes each year and re-uses them in innovative youth programs, international development projects, and its vocational training/retail shop. Its international program has shipped more than 40,000 bikes since 1984 to Nicaragua, South Africa, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Tanzania, Ghana and other countries to establish micro-enterprises in bicycle sales and appropriate technology.

For information and photos of their trip, please follow their blog at: noelonthenatchez.blogspot.com

America’s Best Idea: National Park Getaway

2010-11-25T08:27:00.000-06:00

National Park Service News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 24, 2010

Contacts:
Terry Wildy, Natchez Trace Parkway, Terry_Wildy@nps.gov, 662-680-4017
Elise Cleva, NPS Headquarters, elise_m_cleva@nps.gov, 202-208-6843

Natchez Trace Parkway
America’s Best Idea: National Park Getaway

TUPELO, Miss. – “It’s not so important where you end up; what’s important is the road that takes you there.” This tidbit of conventional wisdom rings doubly true when one’s destination is, in fact, a road. This week’s travel article in the National Park Getaway series takes you to the Natchez Trace Parkway—a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road that is so much more than an artery for transportation.

“The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile drive through exceptional scenery and 10,000 years of North American history,” says Superintendent Cameron Sholly. “It commemorates a historic travel route used by American Indians, settlers, and future presidents. Visitors can not only walk in the footsteps of Meriwether Lewis, Andrew Jackson, and U.S. Grant, but also can enjoy numerous recreational opportunities along the Trace. It offers something for everyone.”

A bias-cut from the eastern border of Louisiana through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway runs from jazz territory to the epicenter of country music in Nashville. The Trace’s
programming—demonstrations of the dulcimer, pioneer days, and more—helps visitors appreciate the musical and other dimensions of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The Trace will dazzle your eyes as well as your ears, whether with spring blossoms or fall foliage. Ride on horseback, hike, bike, or boat past redbuds and dogwoods abloom in pink, purple, and white, or past maples, hickories, and other hardwood trees ablaze with yellows, oranges, and reds.

Scenic driving is always an option, of course, as is camping—a stationary way to enjoy the Trace!

What do you need to take on a Natchez Trace Parkway biking trip?

2010-10-21T14:46:00.000-05:00

For this topic I sought an expert's opinion. Jerry Dusterhoff, an avid cyclist who has written books and blog articles about his numerous bicycle trips, was more than willing to offer his expertise on this topic.

In April of 2010 Jerry and several of his cycling friends biked the Trace (Follow this link to view pictures of their trip.).

90% of the information is based on his recommendations. For more information about Jerry and his cycling books, please see: Acyclist Publishing

The article covers the following areas:

Your Bicycle's Needs
Food and Water
Clothing and Personal Items
Maps, Phone Numbers and Important Information

The amount of information is fairly extensive. To view the complete article please go to Biking the Trace Tips @ NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Which Direction to Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

2010-10-02T19:26:00.002-05:00

Which direction should you bike the Natchez Trace: North to South or South to North?

Some cyclists start in Natchez and bike north to Nashville while others start in Nashville and bike south to Natchez. What are some of the factors to consider when making the decision about which direction to bike?

Uphill or Downhill - the northern half of the Trace is hillier and has a higher elevation. Elevation at the northern terminus is 710 feet and the elevation at the southern terminus is 160 feet. So, there is approximately 550 feet more descent than ascent going North to South - an average of only 15 inches a mile! The more important question is: if you are biking the entire Trace, do you want to bike the hilliest section at the beginning or end of the trip.

Prevailing Wind - generally the wind flows west to east. The Trace actually goes southwest to northeast so biking South to North will put the wind at your back more often than in your face.

RV Traffic - the only large vehicles that you will encounter on the parkway are recreational vehicles. Commercial traffic is prohibited so you won't see semi-trucks. Most of the time RV traffic is light. But, in the fall there are a fair number of RVs heading south for the winter. And, in the spring the same RVs are heading back north for the summer. Ideally, you would like to bike on the opposite side of the road. So, a fall bike trip would be best going South to North and a spring bike trip would be best going North to South.

Logistics - this can be a determining factor for those biking without a support vehicle. How will you arrive at your starting point and how will you get from the end of your trip back to your vehicle or back home? This is something we can help you think through the possibilities.

We can help you talk through these factors and decide which direction is best for your cycling group. Call us at 800.377.2770.

Click here for more Biking the Natchez Trace Parkway Tips.

Fall Foliage on the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-09-13T09:45:00.002-05:00

It won't be long until the leaves start turning colors. Fall foliage color along the northern half of the Natchez Trace Parkway (Tupelo, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee) is generally at or near its peak from mid-October to the first week of November. South of Tupelo to Natchez, MS fall colors usually arrive mid to late November.

Shown below is a slide-show of fall pictures taken during the 2008 and 2009 fall seasons from the northern terminus of the Trace south to the Tennessee River crossing in Alabama.

For additional fall pictures from 2008 and 2009 and hopefully from 2010 go to NatchezTraceTravel.com's Fall Season Natchez Trace Pictures.

Natchez Fall Pilgrimage of Antebellum Homes

2010-09-02T20:31:00.004-05:00

Twenty-three Natchez antebellum mansions, all private residences, open their doors to visitors during the annual two-week fall pilgrimage that runs from October 1st thru October 15th.

Hostesses welcome visitors to three homes each morning and your choice of three or four more each afternoon. Tickets to any of the three home tours are $24 and tickets to any of the four home tours are $32. Tickets can be purchased at the Natchez Visitors' Center.

Four of the homes on the fall tour are bed and breakfasts that work with the Natchez Trace Bed and Breakfast Reservation Service:

When attending the Fall Pilgrimage you will want to stay at one of these B&Bs or one of the other fine Natchez Bed and Breakfasts.

For more information about the Natchez Fall Pilgrimage of Antebellum Homes see Natchez Pilgrimage Tours.

Bed and Breakfasts with Swimming Pools along the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-08-01T13:53:00.004-05:00

The southeast and particularly the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor that passes through Middle Tennessee, Northwest Alabama and from Northeast Mississippi to Southwest Mississippi has been experiencing a very hot summer. Weather forecasts say the month of August will continue to see temperatures in the mid/high 90s and even breaking the 100 mark occasionally.

So, how about staying at a bed and breakfast that has a swimming pool! The Natchez Trace Bed and Breakfast Reservation Service works with four B&Bs that have outdoor, in-ground swimming pools. One in Tennessee, one in Alabama and two in Mississippi.

Creekview Farm Retreat Bed and Breakfast, located 3 miles from milepost 416 in the Fly community, has a swimming pool behind the innkeeper's farmhouse. 150 yards away from the B&B, guests are welcome to use the pool. (picture of swimming pool unavailable at press time)

Riverside Cottage Bed and Breakfast is located 12 miles east of milepost 320 between Cherokee and Tuscumbia, Alabama. A large, in-ground swimming pool and spa tub are reserved for guests' private use. Near the bluff overlooking the Tennessee River are several tall trees providing shade for the picnic area and hammock. Bring your boat - a public boat ramp is half mile away!

Rosswood Plantation Bed and Breakfast is located 2.5 miles east of milepost 30 in Lorman, Mississippi. An in-ground swimming pool sits behind the house on the exact spot where the original kitchen house was located. The kitchen house was the only structure destroyed during a skirmish between the North and South.

The Burn Bed and Breakfast is located in Natchez, Mississippi just a couple of miles from the southern terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The shaded patio overlooks a two acre garden and brick walkways which give way to camellias, azaleas, and dogwoods, and the swimming pool.

Give us a call at 800.377.2770 to stay at any of these B&Bs.

Windsor Ruins - Port Gibson / Alcorn, Mississippi

2010-07-21T08:56:00.003-05:00

Photo by Janie Fortenberry
Photography with a Southern Accent
Vicksburg, Mississippi

People from all over the world travel to see the ruins of Windsor Plantation. Built just before the Civil War, Windsor was one of the largest plantations in the area. Windsor Ruins is located west of Port Gibson, Mississippi along ancient Rodney Road and north of Alcorn State University on Mississippi Highway 552.

Legend says that from a roof observatory, Mark Twain watched the Mississippi River in the distance. Leading up to the Battle of Port Gibson in the spring of 1863, confederate troops used the roof observatory as a lookout as Grant's army crossed the Mississippi River. After the battle the mansion was used as a Union hospital and observation post, thus sparing it from being burned by Union troops. Unfortunately, in 1890 a house guest left a lighted cigar on the upper balcony and Windsor burned to the ground. Everything was destroyed except 23 of the columns, balustrades and iron stairs.

A 32 mile "loop route" along Mississippi Highway 552/Rodney Road and the Natchez Trace Parkway will take you past Windsor Ruins, Canemount Plantation, Bethel Church and Port Gibson the town that U.S. Grant called "too pretty to burn".

For additional pictures and information about Windsor Ruins, the town of Port Gibson and biking the Windsor Ruins Loop please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Church Hill, Mississippi

2010-07-19T15:18:00.003-05:00

The rural community of Church Hill, Mississippi is located at the intersection of Mississippi Highway 553 and Church Hill Road just a few miles from the Natchez Trace Parkway and about 15 miles north of Natchez. The area is named after Christ Church, circa 1790, which sits atop a terraced hill. Across the intersection is a wooden country store built around 1837. The store was closed in the late 1990s. It also functioned as the Church Hill, MS post office.

The Church Hill Loop is 22 miles long - 12 miles along Mississippi Highway 553 and 10 miles along the Natchez Trace Parkway from milepost 10.3 to milepost 20.

Antebellum plantations line both sides of Highway 553, including Springfield Plantation where Andrew Jackson and Rachel Robards were married in 1791. All of the properties are privately owned and not open to the public. Christ Church and the plantations are all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Church Hill Loop is popular with bicyclists. Highway 553 and the Natchez Trace Parkway are lightly traveled. Best place to park is at Mount Locust on the Trace at milepost 15.5.

For additional pictures, information and maps please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Nashville's Trace

2010-06-22T19:38:00.000-05:00

On June 3, 2010, The Tennessean wrote an article about the state of Tennessee's newest tourism trail called "Nashville's Trace". The trail follows the 102 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway through Tennessee.

"Nashville’s Trace, the third of 16 self-guided driving trail in the Discover Tennessee Trails and Byways program, was announced today during a ceremony at the Loveless Barn, near the northern terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway."

Click here to read the entire article.

Spring flowers and trees along the Natchez Trace Parkway.

2010-04-27T13:32:00.002-05:00

Spring has sprung along the length of the Natchez Trace Parkway. During the month of April our staff and several of our guests who have traveled the Trace and lodged overnight at area bed and breakfasts have taken a collection of spring pictures.

We inserted several of the best into the following video:

For location information about these and additional spring pictures please go to NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee

2010-04-25T22:37:00.002-05:00

We often hear people say that there are no gas stations, markets or restaurants near the Natchez Trace Parkway. It is true that none are located "right on" the Trace. But, there are plenty of places just off the Trace to "fuel up" your vehicle and yourself! You only need to know where to find them.

Along the 100 mile-long section of the Trace that passes through Tennessee there are markets within 2 miles or less at eight of the ten major exits. Bicyclists traveling without a vehicle can easily bike to these markets for a quick snack or for a lunch break.

Most of the markets are decades old and are well known in the local community. In fact, one is 120 years old. Most have gas pumps and all offer sandwiches and other items like pizza, ice cream, plate lunches, etc. Play the video for a quick look at the markets.

Click on these articles to learn more about the markets, including how far and which direction they are from the Trace, their address, services provided and some pictures.

Tennessee Highway 100 (northern terminus) - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-25T17:03:00.000-05:00

A Shell Station / Bar-B-Cutie is located 50 feet east of the northern terminus of the Natchez Trace Parkway on Tennessee Highway 100. The historic Loveless Cafe restaurant is next door!

Shell Station / Bar-B-Cutie offers travelers gas, snacks, beverages and sandwiches. Their address is:
8456 Highway 100
Nashville, TN

Loveless Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday. Their address is:
8400 Highway 100
Nashville, TN

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see the Tennessee Highway 100 exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Tennessee Highway 46 (Leiper's Fork) - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-25T16:52:00.001-05:00

Leipers Fork Market is located .8 miles east of the Natchez Trace Parkway on Tennessee Highway 46. Exit the Trace at milepost 428 towards the Leiper's Fork Historic District.

Leipers Fork Market offers travelers gas, snacks, beverages and sandwiches. The market's address is:
4348 Old Hillsboro Road
Leiper's Fork, TN

A little further north on Old Hillsboro Road (highway 46) takes you into the the Leiper's Fork Historic District. Three restaurants and several antique stores, art galleries and bookshops await.

Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant
Breakfast, lunch and dinner, everyday. Snacks and beverages. Gasoline.
Country Boy Restaurant
Breakfast and lunch, everyday.
Joe Natural's
Bakery and cafe - organic fare

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see the Tennessee Highway 46 exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Tennessee Highway 7 - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-24T18:05:00.003-05:00

Fly's General Store is located 1.7 miles southeast of the Natchez Trace Parkway on Tennessee Highway 7. Exit the Trace at milepost 416 towards Columbia, Tennessee.

At this exit the communities of Fly, Santa Fe and Bethel are just east of the Trace, the rural area of Primm Springs, TN is just west of the Trace and the city of Columbia, Tennessee is 15 miles east of the Trace.

Fly's General Store offers travelers snacks, beverages and sandwiches. The market's address is:
5661 Leipers Creek Road
Santa Fe, TN

4.9 miles from the same exit you will also find Nett's Grocery & Deli to the east in the Bethel community. From Highway 7 turn left on Leipers Creek Road. Bethel and Nett's will be down the road a couple of miles on the left. Nett's serves breakfast Monday-Saturday, lunch everyday and dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Snacks, beverages and gas are also available.

Nett's Grocery address is:
4356 Skelley Road (just off Leipers Creek Road)
Santa Fe, TN

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see the Tennessee Highway 7 exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Tennessee Highway 50 - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-24T17:49:00.001-05:00

Malibu 1 Stop Market and Duck River Market are located 1 mile west of the Natchez Trace Parkway on Tennessee Highway 50. Exit the Trace at milepost 408 towards Centerville, Tennessee. Both markets offer gas, snacks, beverages, pizza and sandwiches.

At this exit the town of Centerville, Tennessee is 15 miles west of the Trace and the city of Columbia, Tennessee is 15 miles east of the Trace.

Malibu 1 Stop Market's address is:
4261 Highway 50 East
Duck River, TN

Duck River Market's address is:
4230 Highway 50 East
Duck River, TN

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see the Tennessee Highway 50 exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Tennessee Highway 20 - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-24T17:26:00.001-05:00

Andrew's Circle 6 Market is located 1.3 miles east of the Natchez Trace Parkway on Tennessee Highway 20. Exit the Trace at milepost 386 towards Summertown, Tennessee.

At this exit the town of Hohenwald, Tennessee is 8 miles west of the Trace and the town of Summertown, Tennessee is 15 miles east of the Trace.

Andrew's Circle 6 Market offers travelers gas, diesel, snacks, beverages, ice cream and sandwiches. The market's address is:
2768 Summertown Hwy (TN Hwy 20)
Hohenwald, TN

Additional markets, gas stations and restaurants can be found 8 miles to the west in Hohenwald.

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see the Tennessee Highway 20 exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

US Highway 64 - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-24T17:15:00.001-05:00

From the Natchez Trace Parkway offramp at milepost 370 onto US Highway 64 West you can see Greg's Natchez Trace Store to the right just .3 miles west of the Trace.

The city of Waynesboro is 12 miles west of the Trace and the city of Lawrenceburg is 17 miles east of the Trace.

Greg's Natchez Trace Store offers travelers gas, diesel, snacks, beverages and sandwiches. Bicyclists will appreciate the market's location so close to the Trace.

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see the US Highway 64 exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Collinwood - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-24T13:15:00.005-05:00

The town of Collinwood, Tennessee straddles the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 354. The Wayne County Welcome Center sits a couple hundred yards west of the Trace exit near the center of the downtown area. Collinwood offers several markets, restaurants and even a couple of grocery stores within a couple miles or less from the Trace.

East of the Trace you will find:

GG's Market - gas, diesel, snacks, beverages, sandwiches and pizza
.7 miles @ 1271 Railroad Bed Road

West of the Trace you will find:

the Dragonfly - coffees, smoothies, muffins/brownies and free wi-fi
.1 miles @ 100 Second Avenue
Hasti-Mart - gas, snacks, beverages, sandwiches
.2 miles @ 100 Broadway Street
Chad's Family Restaurant - breakfast, lunch and dinner
.2 miles @ 100 E. Depot Street
Road House Market - gas, snacks, beverages, sandwiches, plate lunch
.7 miles @ 501 Highway 13 South
MeMe's Kitchen - breakfast, lunch and dinner
1.7 miles @ 927 Highway 13 South

To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see Collinwood Welcome Center exit map. A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Tennessee Highway 13 - Food and Gas near the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-04-24T12:49:00.001-05:00

From the Natchez Trace Parkway offramp at milepost 351 onto Tennessee Highway 13 you can see 4 Mile Market to the right just .1 miles east of the Trace.

The town of Collinwood, Tennessee is 4 miles north of this exit (thus the name of the market) and Florence, Alabama is 28 miles south.

4 Mile Market offers travelers gas, diesel, snacks, beverages, sandwiches and pizza. Road weary cyclists will appreciate the market's location so close to the Trace.

Other gas, snack and dining options near this exit include several markets and restaurants to the north in Collinwood. To view a map of this exit that pinpoints nearby Natchez Trace attractions please see Tennessee Highway 13 exit map.

A handy printout to have when traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Gas, Water and Markets list from NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Natchez Trace Parkway Maps

2010-04-22T22:49:00.002-05:00

The Natchez Trace Parkway map provided by the National Park Service is an excellent tool for planning your trip and is a handy companion while you travel on the parkway.

The map shows all 90+ official stops along the Natchez Trace as well as several major attractions located nearby. A short explantation of each stop is included on the back of the map.

This video shows sections of the map going from milepost 0 (Natchez, MS) to milepost 444 (Nashville, TN).

To download map PDF files or have a map mailed to you, go to: http://www.natcheztracetravel.com/natchez-trace-parkway-maps.html

Yeoman's in the Fork - Leiper's Fork, Tennessee

2010-04-17T20:44:00.004-05:00

One of the "newer" businesses in the Leiper's Fork Historic District sells some of the "oldest" items you can find. Yeoman's in the Fork specializes in rare books from America's Colonial period and historic documents signed by our country's founding fathers.

Yeoman's in the Fork is located at 4216 Old Hillsboro Road in a historic building, originally built in 1881, that has been restored on more than one occasion. A fire in the 1930s destroyed part of the front of the building. Later, the house was turned around 180 degrees, the "now" back of the home was rebuilt and in 1949 square pillars saved from a house fire in nearby Franklin were added to the front of the structure.

Today, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visiting the building and store is like taking a peak back into our rich past. You'll even find old Ben Franklin taking a rest on the front lawn!

The store's motto is "The Small Town Bookshop With Uptown Books"

From their website, www.yeomansinthefork.com:

Just like you, we collect rare books. We know that every title page, deckled edge, and colophon is slightly different, making each book and its journey through time incredibly unique. By collecting and sharing them, we are furthering the spread of knowledge and halting the destruction of these pieces of our past.

Also like you, we are fascinated by history. We have a particular passion for American history, so we specialize in works important to the United States, like the Declaration of Independence and early presidents. These documents can give us detailed insights into the patriots that shaped our country and the revolutionary ideas they brought to life.

Leiper's Fork and Yeoman's in the Fork are located about a mile and a half from the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway. Exit the Trace near milepost 428 onto Tennessee Highway 46 and go east. Turn left at the "T" and Yeoman's in the Fork will be up ahead on the left. Within a short walk you will also find restaurants, art galleries, antique shops and a lawnchair theater in historic Leiper's Fork.

Yeoman's in the Fork
4216 Old Hillsboro Road
Franklin, TN 37064
615.983.6463
Mike Cotter, Director of Operations
www.yeomansinthefork.com

Tennessee Crossroads video about the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-03-18T10:04:00.003-05:00

The popular Nashville public television program Tennessee Crossroads featured the Natchez Trace Parkway on one of their programs. They created a video of the program that you can see here.

10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route.

2010-02-24T12:51:00.002-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why should cyclists consider biking the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Listed below are what we think are the top 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route. After you read these articles you will understand why hundreds of people bike the entire length of the Trace and why thousands bike a section or enjoy a day bike on the Trace each year.

Now that you are interested in biking the Natchez Trace Parkway go to NatchezTraceTravel.com's Biking the Natchez Trace Parkway for information about:

Bikes Routes and Elevation Maps
Bike shops near the Natchez Trace Parkway
Books about Biking the Natchez Trace Parkway
Drinking Water and Markets
Safety Rules and Recommendations
Weather on the Natchez Trace Parkway
Shuttle Services for the Natchez Trace Parkway
Public Transportation near the Natchez Trace Parkway

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Bed and breakfasts along and near the Trace.

2010-02-24T10:30:00.006-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike (or drive) the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #10: There are many "cycling friendly" bed and breakfasts located along and near the Trace.

Taking an overnight trip on the Natchez Trace without advance planning can be somewhat difficult, as the Park Service does not permit any advertising, either in the form of signs or in literature at their visitor's centers. Also, through the rural areas where the Trace passes there are very few hotels located within a few miles bike ride of the Trace.

Fortunately, there are bed and breakfasts located up and down the Trace that are a short bike ride away. Some innkeepers, who are further away, will come and pick you up if you don't have a support vehicle.

The bed and breakfasts are very "cyclist friendly". The innkeepers have been known to go out on the Trace during bad weather to pick up cyclists. They will often let cyclists use their laundry facilities. And, they provide a safe place to store your bicycles overnight.

The Natchez Trace Bed and Breakfast Reservation Service can help you locate the perfect spots to make your overnight stays a memorable part of your trip. They can help you plan your itinerary and provide tips passed on from other cyclists as to shuttles, routes, lunch stops, terrain, etc.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Side trails: antebellum and victorian homes, sunken roads, civil war battlefields and southern towns

2010-02-24T09:29:00.003-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike (or drive) the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #9: Numerous side trails take you past antebellum and victorian homes, sunken roads, civil war battlefields and southern towns.

Cyclists can bike off the Natchez Trace onto numerous country back roads where you will see a slice of the modern day south and remnants of what the south looked like before the Civil War when the area was known as the "Old Southwest".

As we have pointed out in a couple of our other "Ten reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route" the Trace for the most part travels through rural areas of Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. It is easy to bike off the Trace onto lightly traveled back roads.

There are several "loop routes" where you can start your ride on the Trace, bike on the Trace, exit the Trace onto a back road, bike past interesting sites and attractions, re-enter the Trace, and bike back to where you started.

For example, 15 miles north of Natchez you can start your bike route at Mount Locust on the Trace, bike south on the Trace for about 5 miles, exit onto Mississippi Highway 553, bike over to Emerald Mound, continue north on 553 past several antebellum homes, the historic town of Church Hill and Springfield Plantation (where Andrew and Rachel Jackson were married), back to the Trace and bike five miles south back to Mount Locust.

Glen Wanner's book Bicycling the Natchez Trace describes in detail several loop routes and other cycling routes located close to the Trace.

Many of the major "off the Trace" attractions, like Windsor Ruins (pictured above), Shiloh National Military Park, Elvis Presley's Birthplace and Vicksburg National Military Park are mentioned on NatchezTraceTravel.com with a description, pictures, directions from the Trace and a locator map.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Restroom facilities on the Trace are available about every 20 miles.

2010-02-23T13:15:00.002-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #8: Restroom facilities on the Trace are available about every twenty miles.

The national park service maintains restroom facilities at 16 of their 95 attractions along the Trace. When you are biking on the Trace there will usually be a park service restroom within twenty miles or less. There are a few stretches where they are spaced further apart.

Most of the stops on the Trace that have restroom facilities also have a picnic area located in a nearby, shaded area. For cyclists packing a lunch or snack these are great places to stop.

Just off the Trace cyclists can find markets where they can purchase beverages, snack foods and in some cases sandwiches and other cooked foods. Go to NatchezTraceTravel.com to view a list of Gas, Water and Markets near the Natchez Trace Parkway.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Historical and nature attractions along the way.

2010-02-23T10:20:00.004-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #7: All along the Trace through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, historical and nature attractions offer interesting breaks and rest stops.

As cyclists bike the Natchez Trace there are an abundance of things to see and do. Take a short rest break at a waterfall, skip rocks on a wooded creek, see a section of the "Old Trace", view an Indian burial mound, read about an historical event, take a short walk along a self-guided trail, take in the view of a scenic overlook, see rivers that frontier travelers either forded across or paid to ferry across, visit a once thriving town that no longer exists, visit a 200 year-old inn, see some pivotal Civil War battlefields...

The parkway offers 95 "sights to see" along the length of the Trace. 26 are along the 102 mile-long Tennessee section of the Trace, 7 are along the 31 mile-long Alabama section of the Trace and 62 are along the 310 mile-long Mississippi section of the Trace.

Many of the stops are also picnic areas and have water/restroom facilities.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

National Park Service designates the entire parkway as a bike route. Numerous signs instruct cars to share the road with bicycles.
Commercial traffic is prohibited.
Maximum speed limit for cars is 50 mph.
Motorized traffic is generally very light except around Tupelo and Jackson.
No stop signs or stop lights. Access on and off the Trace is via on/off ramps which means no need to worry about cross traffic.
Scenery is awesome. Instead of utility poles and buildings, the Trace is lined with forests, farmland, creeks and beautiful vistas.
All along the Trace through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, historical and nature attractions offer interesting breaks and rest stops.
Restroom facilities on the Trace are available about every twenty miles.
Numerous side trails take you past antebellum and victorian homes, sunken roads, civil war battlefields and southern towns.
There are many "cycling friendly" bed and breakfasts located along and near the Trace.

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Scenery is awesome.

2010-02-22T09:50:00.004-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike (or drive) the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #6: Scenery is awesome. Instead of utility poles and buildings, the Trace is lined with forests, farmland, creeks and beautiful vistas.

The parkway is a long and narrow national park all the way from Natchez to Nashville. The width of the parkway land varies but is usually around 3-400 yards. For the most part (95+%) the parkway goes through rural areas passing through forests, farmland and state parks.

The park service prohibits advertising on the Trace. Even the on/off ramps are void of advertising.

No utility poles lining the road, no billboards or adverting signs - just beautiful scenery to enjoy as you bike along.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? No stop signs or stop lights.

2010-02-22T08:47:00.004-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #5: No stop signs or stop lights. Access on and off the Trace is via on/off ramps which means no need to worry about cross traffic.

You could bike the entire length of the Trace without ever stopping! What is most important about the absence of stop signs and stop lights is there is no cross traffic. Cyclists don't have to watch for cars driving across the Trace at high speeds. The picture above shows a typical off ramp.

Access to the Trace from highways and major roads is provided by an on ramp that intersects with the Trace at a 90 degree angle. Cars entering the Trace must stop before turning onto the Trace (i.e. no merging ramps where the car enters the Trace at a high rate of speed).

There are some very lightly traveled back roads that don't have on/off ramps onto the Trace. The back road has a stop sign at the Trace intersection.

If you are looking for a highway or road that accesses the Natchez Trace Parkway go to NatchezTraceTravel.com at the following links:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Motorized traffic is generally very light.

2010-02-19T14:28:00.006-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #4: Motorized traffic is generally very light except around Tupelo and Jackson.

Most of the parkway passes through sparsely and lightly populated areas. Because of this, combined with the 50 mph speed limit and the prohibition of commercial traffic, most of the motorized traffic is done by people enjoying the Trace. The Natchez Trace Parkway is meant for recreational traffic - enjoyed and shared by drivers and cyclists.

However, people do use the parkway to "commute" to work. Commute traffic is minimal through rural areas and very light near small towns located along the Trace. But, commute traffic is very heavy in the Tupelo and Jackson areas:

"To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, bicyclists are encouraged NOT to use the following areas during heavy traffic periods: Jackson (Clinton to Ridgeland), Mississippi, milepost 87-103, from 7:00-9:00 a.m.and from 4:00-6:00 p.m.and Tupelo, Mississippi, mileposts 258-268, from 7:00-8:30 a.m. and 3:00-5:00 p.m. on weekdays."
www.nps.gov/natr/bicyclinghome.htm

Our experience is that traffic through the Jackson and Tupelo areas is always fairly heavy during daylight hours and very heavy during "rush" hours as described above. Fortunately, these areas seem to be patrolled more by park rangers.

If you are biking the entire Trace please be careful when you cycle through the Jackson and Tupelo areas. If you are biking only part of the Trace we recommend that you steer clear of the sections mentioned above. On the outskirts of each city where the auto traffic begins to lessen but is still somewhat heavy try to avoid "rush" hours (i.e. in the morning bike away from town and in the afternoon bike towards town).

Update about biking the Trace in the Jackson/Ridgeland/Madison area. There is now a Multi-Use Path through the area that parallels the Trace that you can use to avoid the heaviest traffic. For more information follow this link.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Maximum speed limit for motorists is 50 mph.

2010-02-18T14:06:00.005-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #3: Maximum speed limit for motorists is 50 mph.

All car travelers should be aware of the following precautions when traveling:
Speed limit is 50 mph, unless otherwise posted.
The Parkway is a designated bike route. Motorists are reminded to watch for bicyclists on the Parkway.
www.nps.gov/natr/planyourvisit/gettingaround.htm

The northernmost 15 miles of the Trace from milepost 428 (intersection with TN Hwy 46) to the northern terminus at milepost 433 (intersection with TN Hwy 100) vehicle speed is limited to 40 mph due to the abundant curves. The remaining 428 miles have a speed limit of 50 mph. Vehicles traveling faster than the posted speed limit risk being issued a heavy fine if caught by a park ranger.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? Commercial traffic is prohibited.

2010-02-18T11:26:00.006-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #2: Commercial traffic is prohibited.

The National Park Service prohibits commercial traffic on the Natchez Trace Parkway. This means cyclists don't have to worry about semi-trucks, dump trucks, delivery trucks, buses, etc.

For the most part the vast majority of motorized vehicles on the Trace are cars, pickup trucks and motorcycles.

At each highway access point to the Trace there are "No Commercial Vehicle" signs posted on the on-ramps and on the Trace itself going both north and south. Any commercial vehicle that disregards these signs takes a huge risk of a heavy federal fine if a park ranger spots them.

The absence of large trucks makes the Natchez Trace Parkway an enjoyable bike route. Cyclists should always bike in single file on the right side of the road. The safest and smoothest ride is where the right wheels of cars typically roll. This spot gives cars plenty of room to pass around you with a lot of clearance.

The only "large" vehicles that bicyclists will encounter on the Trace are RVs and park service mowing and maintenance equipment. RVs are allowed on the Trace because they are "recreational" vehicles.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Why Bike the Natchez Trace Parkway? National Park Service designates NTP as a bike route.

2010-02-17T13:00:00.009-06:00

The 444 mile long Natchez Trace Parkway stretches from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. Why bike the Natchez Trace Parkway?

Reason #1: The National Park Service designates the entire parkway as a bike route. Numerous signs instruct cars to share the road with bicycles.

"visitors can experience this National Scenic Byway and All-American Road through driving and biking"
www.nps.gov/natr/

The U.S. Secretary of Transportation recognizes certain roads as All-American Roads or National Scenic Byways based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of only 151 designated roads.

The park service has "bike route" signs posted at regular intervals along the entire length of the parkway. These signs encourage motorists to "share the road" with cyclists.

Park service rangers patrol the parkway to provide safety for cyclists. Rangers can also assist cyclists when problems occur (accidents, bike damage, severe weather, etc.). Emergency call number signs are also posted periodically on the Trace: 1-800-300-PARK (7275).

The park service also provides five "bicycle only" campgrounds along the parkway for cyclists who want to camp. If you don't want to camp you can find a nearby, comfortable bed and breakfast through the Natchez Trace Bed and Breakfast Reservation Service.

This is just one of 10 reasons why the Natchez Trace Parkway is an excellent bike route:

Natchez Trace Parkway divided into 15 geographic sections

2010-02-12T19:01:00.009-06:00

The 444 mile-long Natchez Trace Parkway starts in Natchez, Mississippi and goes northeast through Mississippi, northwest Alabama and middle Tennessee before ending in Nashville, TN. There is quite a difference in climate from the southern terminus of the Trace at Natchez, MS (latitude 31.5) and the northern terminus at Nashville, TN (latitude 36.0).

NatchezTraceTravel.com has divided the Natchez Trace Parkway into fifteen geographic sections, each approximately 30 miles in length. The first nine sections are in Mississippi, one section in Alabama and the last five sections are located in Tennessee. Each section is named after nearby towns and cities.

We have written an article about each of the sections. Each article includes a map of that section of the Trace, a short description of each of the park service interpretive stops on the Trace, information about some of the nearby attractions and towns and a short video slide show of pictures.

Click on the section/article links listed below. We hope you enjoy this virtual tour.

Mississippi:

Alabama:

Tuscumbia and Florence

Tennessee:

Natchez Trace Parkway - Nashville | Franklin, Tennessee

2010-02-09T15:52:00.002-06:00

This 15 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway starts near the Leiper's Fork, Tennessee area at milepost 428 (intersection with TN highway 46) and goes to the northern terminus of the Trace (intersection with TN highway 100) at milepost 443.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Birdsong Hollow - Double-Arched Bridge
Completed in 1994, the double-arched bridge that spans Birdsong Hollow received the Presidential Award for Design Excellence in 1995 for its innovative design that rises 155 feet above the valley. The bridge carries Trace travelers 1,648 feet across the valley and Tennessee Highway 96.
The bridge can be viewed from two locations. We recommend taking in both views. 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.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Nashville | Franklin, Tennessee section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Bed and Breakfast travelers will enjoy Chigger Ridge Bed and Breakfast in Pegram, TN, Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast in Franklin, TN and East Park Inn Bed and Breakfast in Nashville, TN.

Next section south on the Trace: Leiper's Fork | Fly

Natchez Trace Parkway - Leiper's Fork - Fly, Tennessee

2010-02-08T16:29:00.004-06:00

This 12 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway starts near the Fly, Tennessee area at milepost 416 (intersection with TN Highway 7) and goes north to the Leiper's Fork, Tennessee area at milepost 428 (intersection with TN highway 46).

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Tennessee Valley Divide
When Tennessee joined the Union in 1796, this watershed was the boundary between the United States to the north and the Chickasaw Nation to the south.
Burns Branch
The Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail horse path traverses past Burns Branch. The creek and heavy shade create a cool spot to enjoy a picnic.
Old Trace
This is the northernmost intersection of the old "Natchez Road" and the new "Natchez Trace Parkway". Heading north, the old path lies east of the modern parkway as it headed towards what is now downtown Nashville. The new roadway goes a little west towards the southwest corner of Nashville.
Garrison Creek
Named for a nearby 1801-02 U.S. Army post, this area is a trailhead for horseback riders and hikers on the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail. Plenty of horse trailer parking is available. This section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail is 24 miles in length. From the Garrison Creek trailhead you can hike or ride your horse south to Tennessee Highway 50 (milepost 408).

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Leiper's Fork | Fly, Tennessee section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Leiper's Fork, Tennessee
Leiper's Fork sits a mile east of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The old Natchez Road came through the middle of town. The village, with many late 19th century buildings and homes, is a Registered National Historic District. Many of the historic buildings that line both sides of Old Hillsboro Road (Hwy 46) through the center of town are restaurants, antique shops, gift shops and art galleries.

Bed and Breakfast travelers will enjoy Creekview Farm Retreat Bed and Breakfast in the Fly / Santa Fe area.

Next section north on the Trace: Nashville | Franklin
Next section south on the Trace: Columbia | Centerville

Natchez Trace Parkway - Columbia | Centerville, Tennessee

2010-02-06T12:29:00.005-06:00

This 25 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway in the Columbia | Centerville, Tennessee area goes from milepost 416 (intersection with TN Highway 7) to milepost 391 (intersection with US Highway 421).

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Fall Hollow Waterfall
A path and a set of wooden bridges take you across the small creeks before they begin their tumbling descent.
Swan View Overlook
From here you can see the water tower in Hohenwald, Tennessee, the town with the highest elevation between New Orleans and Chicago.
Old Trace
Before 1805 the Chickasaw Indians owned all the land in this area. Only the Natchez Trace, part of which is still visible at this location, made inroads into tribal territory. Treaties in 1805 and 1816 ceded portions of the area to the United States and then in 1837 the government removed the Chickasaws to the Indian territory in Oklahoma over the tragic Trail of Tears.
Sheboss Place
A widow operated an inn here on the Old Natchez Trace with her Indian husband who spoke little English. According to legend when travelers approached with questions about accommodations he would only point to his wife and say, "She boss."
Tobacco Farm / Old Trace Drive
Exhibited at this location is a typical early 1900s tobacco farm. A 10 minute walk takes you through a tobacco field to the barn where tobacco is hanging to dry. Also, from this location you can drive north on a two-mile section of the Old Natchez Trace and meet the parkway on the other end.
Old Trace
Here you can walk a 2000 foot long, preserved section of the Old Natchez Trace that follows a ridge 300 feet above the Duck River.
Jackson Falls
A steep trail (concrete) 900 feet long trail descends to Jackson Falls. Named for Andrew Jackson, the falls cascade down and into the Duck River.
Baker Bluff Overlook
Family farms on the other side of the Duck River are visible from the bluff. There is also a 1/3 mile-long trail along the bluff that sits high above the river and continues on to Jackson Falls.
Gordon House Historic Site
The Gordon House, owned by ferry operators John and Dorothea Gordon, is one of the few remaining buildings associated with the old Natchez Trace. In the early 1800s, Gordon made an agreement with the Chickasaw Chief George Colbert to operate a trading post and ferry on the Duck River.
Water Valley Overlook
A short road off the Trace takes you to the top of a ridge that offers 180 degree views of Water Valley.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Columbia | Centerville, Tennessee section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Columbia, Tennessee
Columbia has several antebellum homes open for tours every day, including the home of President James K. Polk. Columbia is known as the "Mule capital of the world" and honors this fact with Mule Day, a large celebration held annually every April.

Bed and Breakfast travelers will enjoy Creekview Farm Retreat Bed and Breakfast in the Fly / Santa Fe area, Blue Moon Bed and Breakfast in Columbia and several Bed and Breakfast/Cabin options in the Hohenwald / Hampshire area.

Next section north on the Trace: Leiper's Fork | Fly
Next section south on the Trace: Hohenwald | Summertown

Natchez Trace Parkway - Hohenwald | Summertown, Tennessee

2010-02-05T16:42:00.004-06:00

This 21 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway in the Hohenwald | Summertown, Tennessee area goes from milepost 391 (intersection with US 421) to milepost 370 (intersection with US 64).

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Old Trace Drive
A 2.5 mile of the original Old Natchez Trace has been graded into a one-way road that parallels the modern parkway.
Jacks Branch
From the parking area, a stone walkway takes you down into the valley next to Jacks Branch. Several picnic tables and grills await under the shade of tall trees.
Napier Mine
Napier Mine was an open pit mine in the 1820s and 1830s. The mine provided most of the ore for the nearby iron making operations.
Metal Ford and Buffalo River
At this location travelers on the Old Natchez Trace crossed the Buffalo River which was fordable except after heavy rains. The ford takes its name from its stone bottom, which reminded frontier travelers of stone-surfaced or “metaled” roads of the day.
Meriwether Lewis
Meriwether Lewis (1774 to 1809), captain in The United States Army, Private Secretary to President Jefferson, senior Commander of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and Governor of the Territory of Louisiana, tragically and mysteriously died on October 11, 1809 at the Grinder House here on the Old Natchez Trace. His body is buried under a monument erected in 1848 by the State of Tennessee.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Hohenwald | Summertown, Tennessee section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Hohenwald, Tennessee
Hohenwald, the county seat of Lewis County, is located in Middle Tennessee about 8 miles west of the Natchez Trace Parkway.

There are several bed and breakfast and cabin opportunities in the Hohenwald / Linden / Hampshire area.

Next section north on the Trace: Centerville | Columbia
Next section south on the Trace: Waynesboro | Collinwood

Natchez Trace Parkway - Waynesboro | Collinwood, Tennessee

2010-02-05T09:34:00.004-06:00

This 28 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway spans the area north of Waynesboro, Tennessee at milepost 370 (intersection with US 64) to south of Collinwood, Tennessee at the Tennessee-Alabama state line at milepost 341.8.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Cypress Creek
This stop, along Cypress Creek, features a large shady area with several picnic tables and grills.
Holly
Named for the many holly trees in the area, this picnic area is covered with shade and sits next to a flowing stream.
Sunken Trace
During wet weather the Old Natchez Trace would turn into a muddy, sinking path. When the trail became so water logged that wagons could not be pulled through, travelers cut new paths through the nearby woods. At this stop you can see three paths.
McGlamery Stand
One of the many inns or "stands" along the Old Natchez Trace was located here. The nearby village is known as McGlamery Stand.
Sweetwater Branch
A 20-minute trail takes you along this fast-flowing stream.
Glenrock Branch
In my humble opinion this is the most beautiful picnic area along the entire length of the Natchez Trace Parkway. From the parking area it is a short walk down a trail to a natural ampitheater. The creek and limestone bluff bend around the shaded picnic area.
Dogwood Mudhole
About a mile from the current parkway the Old Natchez Trace crossed a low area in the flat, dogwood covered ridge. After heavy rains it became almost impassable for wagons.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Waynesboro | Collinwood, Tennessee section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Shiloh National Military Park
Besides preserving the site of the bloody April 1862 battle in Tennessee, the park commemorates the subsequent siege, battle, and occupation of the key railroad junction at nearby Corinth, Mississippi. From the Natchez Trace Parkway, exit onto US 64 at milepost 370 and go west through Waynesboro and Savannah to the park area.
Collinwood, Tennessee
The close location to the Trace (150 yards) and the town's markets, grocery stores and a couple of restaurants make Collinwood a popular stop for anybody traveling the Trace, especially cyclists.

Travelers will enjoy Miss Monetta's Country Cottage in Collinwood.

Next section north on the Trace: Hohenwald | Summertown
Next section south on the Trace: Florence | Tuscumbia

Natchez Trace Parkway - Florence | Tuscumbia, Alabama

2010-02-03T10:44:00.006-06:00

This 33 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway travels through the northwest corner of Alabama from milepost 341.8 at the Tennessee-Alabama state line to milepost 308.9 at the Alabama-Mississippi state line.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Bear Creek
A large, shady picnic area with several picnic tables and grills sits next to Bear Creek.
Freedom Hills Overlook
A steep, 1/4 mile paved trail takes you to the overlook.
Buzzard Roost Spring
Named Buzzard Roost in 1801 by Levi Colbert, a renowned Chickasaw chief, the spring was a water source for his house which was also an inn for travelers on the Old Natchez Trace. A short trail takes you to Buzzard Roost spring.
Colbert Ferry
The park service provides a ranger station, restrooms, visitor center (in season), picnic area, boat launch and fishing at the site where George Colbert operated a ferry across the Tennessee River from 1800 to 1819.
Lauderdale
This picnic area is located across the Tennessee River from Colbert Ferry on the north shoreline.
Rock Spring
A 20 minute self-guided trail takes you along Colbert Creek.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Florence | Tuscumbia, Alabama section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall
Tom Hendrix has been building a stone wall for over 30 years in memory of his great-great-grandmother's journey. His great-great-grandmother Te-lah-nay was part of the Yuchi Indian tribe that lived near here along the Tennessee River in the 1800s.
Tuscumbia, Alabama
Tuscumbia, located 20 miles east of the Natchez Trace Parkway, is the birthplace and home of Helen Keller.

Bed and breakfast travelers will enjoy Riverside Cottage Bed and Breakfast located between Cherokee and Tuscumbia.

Next section north on the Trace: Waynesboro | Collinwood
Next section south on the Trace: Tishomingo | Belmont

Natchez Trace Parkway - Tishomingo | Belmont, Mississippi

2010-02-02T10:41:00.007-06:00

This 28 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway spans the area south of the Tishomingo | Belmont, Mississippi area from milepost 281 to the Mississippi-Alabama state line at milepost 309.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Donivan Slough
Self-guiding trail through an area that floods quite frequently creating an environment for a large variety of plants.
Pharr Mounds
This is the largest and most important archaeological site in northern Mississippi. Eight large dome shaped burial mounds are scattered over an area of 90 acres.
Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway
The Natchez Trace Parkway passes over the waterway less than a mile downstream from the US Army Corps of Engineers dam that creates Bay Springs Lake.
Cave Spring
Indians may have used this site as a source of water and safety. The water is now unsafe to drink and the cave is dangerous.
Bear Creek Mound
This ceremonial mound, located next to Bear Creek, was built over 600 years ago.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Tishomingo | Belmont, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Bay Springs Lake
Bay Springs Lake and Dam, part of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, is only a few minutes off the Trace. The lake is very popular with fishermen and boaters.
Tishomingo State Park
Named after Chickasaw medicine name Tishomingo. The Trace travels through the center of the park.
Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center
For six months in 1862, Corinth, Mississippi, a critical railroad junction, captured the full attention of a divided nation. The visitor center interprets the key role of Corinth in the Civil War's Western Theater.
Corinth, Mississippi
Corinth is home to four museums, a National Park Service Civil War Interpretive, pristine Civil War earthworks, historic neighborhoods, churches and cemeteries, and much more. Shiloh National Military Park is 20 miles north of Corinth.

Bed and breakfast travelers will enjoy Belmont Hotel in Belmont and Generals' Quarters Inn Bed and Breakfast in Corinth.

Next section north on the Trace: Florence | Tuscumbia
Next section south on the Trace: Tupelo

Natchez Trace Parkway - Tupelo, Mississippi

2010-01-29T13:30:00.007-06:00

This 33 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway spans the area south of Tupelo, Mississippi from milepost 248 to north of Tupelo at milepost 281.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Tockshish
A "stand" located here was also the midway point exchange of mail bags on the postal route from Nashville to Natchez.
Chickasaw Council House
Near here on the Old Trace stood an Indian village, Pontatock, with its council house, which in the 1820s became the capitol of the Chickasaw Nation. The chiefs and the head men met there to sign treaties or to establish tribal laws and policies.
Black Belt Overlook
Named for the land's rich black soil, the black belt extends south past Columbus, MS and eastward across most of Alabama. Formerly one of America's great cotton areas, it is now excellent pasture for livestock.
Chickasaw Village
A Chickasaw Indian village of several houses and a fort sat on this spot. During the summer they lived in rectangular, well-ventilated houses. In the winter they lived in round houses with plaster walls. In times of danger, everybody sought shelter in strongly fortified stockades.
Old Town Overlook
From here you can see Old Town Creek and the adjacent floodplain. From here you there is a hiking trail heading north to the Tupelo Visitors Center or south to the Chickasaw Village Site.
Tupelo Visitor Center
The Natchez Trace Headquarters is located adjacent to the parkway in Tupelo at milepost 266. Information Center, bookstore, exhibits, restrooms, nature walk and offices. A hiking trail will take you from the visitor's center to Old Town Overlook and the Chickasaw Village Site. The visitor center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Closed Christmas day.
Confederate Gravesites and Old Trace
A 5 minute walk on the Old Trace takes you to the grave sites of 13 unknown Confederate soldiers.
Dogwood Valley
Here the Natchez Trace passes through a small valley with an unusual stand of large dogwood trees. An easy 15 minute walk takes you along a sunken portion of the Old Trace and through the small wooded area named Dogwood Valley.
Twentymile Bottom Overlook
Twentymile Bottom is an example of the many low areas along streams through which the Natchez Trace passed.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Tupelo, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Tupelo National Battlefield
The Battle of Tupelo opened early morning of July 14, 1864 and ended north of town, late afternoon of July 15. The Battle of Tupelo was a Union victory over Confederate forces which ensured the safety of General William T. Sherman's supply lines. The park that commemorates the battle is located one mile east of the Natchez Trace Parkway on Mississippi Highway 6.
Tupelo Automobile Museum
The museum features 120,000 square feet of automobile displays and open viewing restoration bays. Over 100 antique, classic and collectible automobiles, chronologically displayed, illustrate the progress of over 100 years of automobile design and engineering. The museum is located east of the Trace in downtown Tupelo 1/2 block off Highway MS 45, Main Street Exit.
Elvis Presley Birthplace
Elvis was born in Tupelo. The two-room house where Elvis was born on January 8, 1935 is seen by over 50,000 visitors each year. Tupelo bought the house and 15 acres with money provided from a 1957 Tupelo concert performed by Elvis, who wanted to raise money for a park for neighborhood children.
Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield
Brices Cross Roads was the site of a major Civil War battle that took place on June 10, 1864. Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site can be reached from the Tupelo Visitor Center via US Highway 45 north to Mississippi Highway 370 west (an approximate 30 minute drive from the Trace) or just five miles west of Baldwyn, MS. The Brices Cross Roads Visitor and Interpretive Center is located close to the intersection of US Highway 45 and Mississippi Highway 370.
Tupelo, Mississippi
Roughly halfway between Natchez, Mississippi and Nashville, Tennessee the Natchez Trace Parkway passes through the city of Tupelo.
Baldwyn, Mississippi
Baldwyn, is located 15 miles north of Tupelo. The Civil War battle of Brices Cross Roads was fought five miles west of town.

Bed and breakfast travelers will enjoy Sachem Bed and Breakfast in Baldwyn and A Lazy Dog Ranch just north of Tupelo.

Next section north on the Trace: Tishomingo | Belmont
Next section south on the Trace: Houston

Natchez Trace Parkway - Houston, Mississippi

2010-01-26T21:14:00.003-06:00

This 44 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway spans the area south of Houston, Mississippi from milepost 204 to north of Houston at milepost 248.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Line Creek
The Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes recognized this creek as the boundary between their lands.
Old Trace
An original section of the Old Trace crosses the parkway.
Bynum Mounds
These mounds were built more than 1800 years ago.
Witch Dance
A large picnic area, restrooms and a horse trail access area are located at this spot where old folks say witches gathered to dance and wherever their feet touched the ground the grass withered and died never to grow again.
Chickasaw Agency
United States agents to the Chickasaws lived from 1802 to 1825 near here on the Old Natchez Trace. Agents kept peace between the Chickasaws and the Americans who traveled on the Old Trace through Indian lands.
Hernando de Soto
Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto traveled through this area in the mid-1500s.
Monroe Mission
At Monroe Mission Station near here, the Chickasaws were first taught Christianity and education in 1822.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Houston, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Owl Creek Mounds
The mounds were built and used by farming people belonging to the Mississippian culture, A.D. 1000 to 1500. The archaeological site includes two large mounds, walkways and interpretive panels.
Davis Lake Recreation Area
Davis Lake, overseen by the U.S. Forest Service, is four miles west of the Natchez Trace.
Houston, Mississippi
Houston is located 30 miles southwest of Tupelo and five miles west of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The land on which Houston resides was donated to the city by Judge Joel Pinson on the condition that it would be named for Sam Houston, a childhood friend. The middle of town where the Chickasaw County Courthouse sits is called Pinson Square.

Bed and breakfast travelers will enjoy Bridges-Hall Manor in Houston.

Next section north on the Trace: Tupelo
Next section south on the Trace: French Camp

Natchez Trace Parkway - French Camp, Mississippi

2010-01-25T19:18:00.003-06:00

This 38 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway spans the area south of French Camp from milepost 166 to north of French Camp at milepost 204.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Cole Creek
A 15 minute self-guiding trail takes you through a water tupelo/bald cypress swamp.
Bethel Mission
One of 13 Choctaw missions was located near here.
French Camp
French Camp Historic District sits alongside the Natchez Trace at milepost 180. Come discover how early American life used to be in this quaint log cabin village. The Huffman Cabin Gift Shop and the French Camp Log House Museum are open to the public Monday - Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Council House Cafe is open Monday - Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Other historic buildings include the Colonel James Drane House, The LeFlore Carriage House, Black Smith Shop, Welcome Center and Bread Bakery.
Jeff Busby Park
On February 15, 1934, while serving as U.S. Congressman from Mississippi, Thomas Jefferson Busby (1884-1964) introduced a bill authorizing a survey of the Old Natchez Trace. Four years later, the historic road was designated a unit of the National Park System. The park is named in Jeff Busby's honor to commemorate his part in the Parkway's establishment.
Old Trace
A section of the original Old Trace is preserved.
Ballard Creek
A small picnic area overlooks Ballard Creek.
Pigeon Roost
Millions of passenger pigeons, now extinct, roosted here. One mile east where the Old Trace crossed Pigeon Roost Creek Nathaniel Folsom of New England and his Choctaw wife had a trading post before 1790. Later, their son David, took over operation of the trading post.

Bed and breakfast travelers will enjoy French Camp Bed and Breakfast.

Next section north on the Trace: Houston
Next section south on the Trace: Kosciusko

Natchez Trace Parkway - Kosciusko, Mississippi

2010-01-23T12:36:00.004-06:00

This 31 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway spans the area south of Kosciusko from milepost 135 to north of Kosciusko at milepost 166.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Robinson Road
Robinson Road was built in 1821. Designation of the Robinson Road as the mail route in 1822, drew much of the traffic from the northern Mississippi section of the Natchez Trace. No longer was the Trace the only direct road through the wilderness from the east to the old southwest.
Red Dog Road
The road, running to Canton, Mississippi was opened in 1834 and named for a Choctaw Indian, Ofahoma, or Red Dog.
Myrick Creek
This creek is a haven for beavers.
Holly Hill
A shady picnic area welcomes travelers.
Hurricane Creek
A self-guided nature trails takes you along the creek.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Kosciusko, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Kosciusko Information Center
Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce volunteers provide travel information for the parkway and the local area.
Kosciusko, Mississippi
Kosciusko, is located 65 miles northeast of Jackson and less than one mile from the Natchez Trace Parkway. Kosciusko is named for the Polish general Tadeusz Kościuszko, who assisted United States military efforts during the American Revolution. However the anglicized name omits the "z".

Bed and breakfast travelers will enjoy Maple Terrace Inn in Kosciusko.

Next section north on the Trace: French Camp
Next section south on the Trace: Jackson to Canton

Natchez Trace from Jackson, Mississippi to Canton, Mississippi

2010-01-22T12:41:00.005-06:00

This 33 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway starts at milepost 102 at the northern end of Jackson, Mississippi and goes northeast past Canton, Mississippi to milepost 135. For several miles the Trace follows the western shoreline of beautiful Ross Barnett Reservoir.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Brashear's Stand and Old Trace
Two portions of the Old Natchez Trace, are preserved here. In 1806 the stand was advertised as "a house of entertainment in the wilderness."
Reservoir Overlook
From this overlook you can see much of the 50 square mile reservoir.
Boyd Mounds
In this 100 foot long mound, archaeologists found the remains of 41 burials.
West Florida Boundary
In 1764, Great Britain moved the boundary of West Florida north to this location (32 degrees, 28 minutes) into the land of the Choctaws and Creeks. This Trace stop is a trailhead to the Ridgeland, MS section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, a walking and horse trail.
Cypress Swamp
A 20 minute self-guided trail takes you through a water tupelo and bald cypress swamp.
River Bend
In 1698, the French Explorer, Pierre LeMoyne Sieur d'Iberville, sailed into the mouth of this river and found pearls. He named it 'River of Pearls'.
Upper Choctaw Boundary
A line of trees crossing the Natchez Trace Parkway at this location, marked a section of the boundary accepted by the Choctaw Indians and the American Commission under Andrew Jackson in the treaty of Doaks Stand, October 20, 1820. As part of this treaty the Choctaw reluctantly ceded 5.5 million acres of land west of this line.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Jackson - Canton, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Mississippi Crafts Center
Located near the Natchez Trace Parkway since 1975, the Craftsmen's Guild of Mississippi is a non-profit organization of craftsmen and others to preserve and promote folk, traditional and contemporary crafts.
Canton, Mississippi
Canton is located eight miles west of the Natchez Trace Parkway. Canton's historic County Courthouse Square and the town's many Victorian and Antebellum homes have been the backdrop for several movies, including "A Time to Kill", "My Dog Skip" and parts of "O Brother, Where Art Thou?".

There are two Canton bed and breakfasts to choose from - both located a short walk from the Courthouse Square.

Next section north on the Trace: Kosciusko
Next section south on the Trace: Raymond to Jackson

Natchez Trace from Raymond, Mississippi to Jackson, Mississippi

2010-01-21T11:11:00.006-06:00

This 36 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway starts at milepost 66 south of Raymond, Mississippi and goes north to the west of Jackson, Mississippi at milepost 102.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Deans Stand
One of the inns or "stands" along the Old Trace in the 1820s and 1830s.
Battle of Raymond
Part of the Grant's Vicksburg campaign a battle was fought near here in 1863.
Cowles Mead Cemetery
Cowles Mead, a stand owner along the Old Trace and territorial governor in 1806, is buried here.
Osburn Stand
Noble Osburn operated a stand here starting in 1811 until the early 1820s when the city of Jackson was established.
Choctaw Agency
U.S. agents lived among the Choctaw and represented their interests while implementing U.S. policy. Their duties included surveying and preventing illegal settlement of Choctaw land. They also encouraged the Choctaw to be more dependent on modern farming practices.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Raymond - Jackson, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Raymond Military Park
On May 12, 1863, 10,000 soldiers from Ulysses S. Grant's Union army encountered 3,000 Confederate soldier near Raymond, Mississippi. After the Battle of Raymond was over 1,000 wounded soldiers from both armies were taken to a local church and the courthouse and cared for. Part of the battlefield has been preserved by the Friends of Raymond, a non-profit historic preservation organization, as the Raymond Military Park.
Raymond, Mississippi
Raymond is located fifteen miles south of Jackson and two miles east of the Natchez Trace Parkway. The small town features dozens of antebellum era homes, church buildings and the still functioning County Courthouse built from 1857-1859. In 1903 a water tower was built in the middle of the town's square creating a unique focal point that local residents have taken pride in for over 100 years.
Clinton Visitor Center
Just off the Trace in the Jackson suburb of Clinton, Mississippi travelers will find the Clinton Visitor Center. The Center is constructed with period materials and period architectural details including a porch and "dogtrot" and has the look and authentic charm of one of the 19th century farmhouses once located along the Natchez Trace. The museum room provides displays showing the history of the Natchez Trace in the Clinton area.

There are three Raymond bed and breakfasts to choose from - all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Next section north on the Trace: Jackson to Canton
Next section south on the Trace: Port Gibson to Vicksburg

Natchez Trace from Port Gibson, Mississippi to Vicksburg, Mississippi

2010-01-20T14:05:00.005-06:00

This 36 mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway starts at milepost 30 near Lorman, Mississippi and goes north past Port Gibson to milepost 66. The city of Vicksburg is 20-30 miles west of the Trace. This area of Mississippi is very flat. Tall pine trees line much of the parkway.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Sunken Trace
A trail takes you through a deeply eroded part of the original Natchez Trace.
Mangum Mound
A circa 1000 Indian mound.
Grindstone Ford
Old Trace travelers crossed over Bayou Pierre here.
Owens Creek Waterfall
Picnic area, hiking trail to Rocky Springs and a waterfall that usually is only a trickle except after heavy rain.
Rocky Springs
Before the Civil War, Rocky Springs was a thriving community of several thousand. The Civil War, Yellow Fever, destructive crop insects and poor land management all led to the area's downfall.
Lower Choctaw Boundary
A line of trees here has been a boundary for over 200 years. It was established in 1765 and marked the eastern limits of the old Natchez District.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Port Gibson - Vicksburg, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

Windsor Ruins
Built in 1859-61, this huge plantation home survived the Civil War. However, during a house party on February 17, 1890 a guest left a lighted cigar on the upper balcony and Windsor burned to the ground. Everything was destroyed except 23 of the columns, balustrades and iron stairs.
The historic town of Port Gibson, Mississippi
Chartered as a town on March 12, 1803, Port Gibson is Mississippi's third oldest settlement, being occupied in 1729. Many of Port Gibson's historic buildings survived the Civil War because Grant believed the city "too beautiful to burn".
Grand Gulf Military Park
Located eight miles northwest of Port Gibson, this 400 acre landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes Fort Cobun and Fort Wade, the Grand Gulf Cemetery, a museum, picnic areas, hiking trails, an observation tower, and several restored buildings dating back to Grand Gulf's heyday
Vicksburg National Military Park
The Vicksburg National Military Park commemorates the campaign, siege, and defense of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

There are bed and breakfasts in the area including Oak Square Bed and Breakfast in Port Gibson and The Corners Bed & Breakfast and Annabelle Bed & Breakfast in Vicksburg.

Next section north on the Trace: Raymond to Jackson
Next section south on the Trace: Natchez to Lorman

Natchez Trace from Natchez, Mississippi to Lorman, Mississippi

2010-01-19T14:23:00.009-06:00

This will be the first of fifteen articles about attractions on and near the Natchez Trace Parkway. Each article will cover about 30 miles along the 444 mile-long Trace.

The first section starts at the beginning of the Trace in Natchez, Mississippi and goes north to milepost 30 near Lorman, Mississippi. The Trace parallels the Mississippi River and is within a few miles to no more than 15 miles east of the river. Tall pine trees line most of the parkway.

Traveling south to north you will encounter several sites that are part of the Natchez Trace Parkway and are overseen by the National Park Service:

Elizabeth Female Academy Site
Historical marker and building remains at the site of a school for women founded in 1818.
Old Trace Exhibit Shelter
A section of the old Natchez Trace wilderness road is preserved. Exhibit describes the Trace's history.
Emerald Mound
Largest Indian mound in Mississippi covers eight acres. A trail leads you to top of the tallest mound.
Turpin Creek
Picnic area along Turpin Creek.
Loess Bluff
This tall, eroded bluff consists of windblown topsoil known as Loess (pronounced Low-ess) that is prevalent east of the Mississippi River for up to 30 miles from Louisiana to Tennessee. Where any road, including the Old Natchez Trace, passed over loess soil it formed sunken roads, in places 20 feet deep.
Mount Locust
One of the many inns or "stands" that lined the Old Natchez Trace in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Interpretive programs are offered February thru November.
Coles Creek
Large picnic area under tall pine trees along Coles Creek.
Bullen Creek
A self-guiding trail leads through a mixed hardwood-pine forest.
Mud Island Creek
Picnic area along Mud Island Creek.
North Fork Coles Creek
Picnic area along North Fork Coles Creek.

For additional pictures, information and interactive maps of the Natchez to Lorman, Mississippi section of the Trace please see NatchezTraceTravel.com.

Also, just off the Trace you will find:

The historic town of Natchez, Mississippi
Home to dozens of preserved antebellum homes, building and plantations.
Grand Village of the Natchez Indians
Located just outside of present day Natchez. The Natchez Indians lived in present-day southwest Mississippi circa. AD 700-1730. According to historical and archaeological evidence Grand Village was their main ceremonial center starting around 1682.
William Johnson House
Known as the “barber” of Natchez, William Johnson was born a slave. He became free at the age of eleven. He became an apprentice barber and later bought the barber shop in 1830. For 16 years as a barber in downtown Natchez he kept a diary of everyday life in Natchez. Johnson’s house on State Street in downtown Natchez is today a museum about his life.
Jefferson College in Washington, MS
Located in Washington, Mississippi about five miles north of Natchez, Jefferson College was the first educational institution of higher learning in Mississippi, being chartered in 1802. Today, visitors can tour a restored dormitory room, student dining room, kitchen buildings, and other historic sites.
Springfield Plantation near Church Hill, MS
Andrew and Rachel Jackson were married at Springfield Plantation. This area is a few miles off the Trace on MS Highway 553. You can drive or bike on a 25 mile loop on the Trace (milepost 10 to 20) and highway 553 and see Mount Locust, Loess Bluff, Coles Creek, Emerald Mound, the historic town of Church Hill and Springfield Plantation.

There are several bed and breakfasts in the area including several Natchez bed and breakfasts and Rosswood Plantation Bed and Breakfast near Lorman.

Next section north on the Trace: Port Gibson to Vicksburg

Horseback Riding at Natchez Trace Riding Stables

2010-01-14T20:05:00.002-06:00

Last spring my "little brother" Spencer and I went horseback riding at Natchez Trace Riding Stables in Primm Springs, Tennessee. If you try to find Primm Springs on a map you probably won't find it. It really isn't a town. Farmland, cattle ranches, dairy farms, and lots of horses. Seems like every house or farm you drive by has at least a few horses. As you would imagine Natchez Trace Riding Stables has a bunch or horses.

We started on the parkway at the northern terminus and headed south. Of course, we had to stop at Birdsong Hollow to take in the Highway 96 Bridge. After mugging for a few photos we continued on towards Leiper's Fork. We exited the parkway at Leiper's Fork and went down Leiper's Creek Road towards the Bethel / Fly area for lunch at Nett's Country Store & Deli. This is an old-timey country store/gas station that now doubles as a diner serving lunch and dinner. Pretty good food in a laid back atmosphere.

After lunch we rode south on Leiper's Fork Road to Highway 7 and turned right going west. Just after going under the parkway we make a couple of turns and we were at the riding stables.

Neither Spencer or I had ever ridden a horse. I was a little apprehensive but on a previous trip down the Trace, Spencer said he would like to go horseback riding. So we did. Darren and Regina Haman are the owners/trail guides. There were seven of us for the afternoon ride. Most of the others were novices as well.

Darren and Regina showed us what to do. We didn't really need to do much because the horses are well trained, know where they are going and as Regina said "horses are very self-preserving animals - they don't want to do anything that would hurt themselves". After the two hour ride I was able, with some assistance, to get back on solid ground.

After we left we needed a cool drink so we stopped at Fly's General Store on Highway 7 just east of the parkway. I don't know how long the store has been around but I have a pretty good idea it looked about the same then as it does now. Great place to stop for a drink and a snack. About a mile from the Trace so it is a good water stop for cyclists.

Natchez Trace Riding Stables
www.natcheztracestables.com
931-682-3706

Most Popular Tennessee Attractions on the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-01-07T09:31:00.002-06:00

The Natchez Trace Parkway generally follows the route of the Old Natchez Road for 102 miles through central Tennessee from Nashville to the Tennessee-Alabama stateline. Along the Tennessee section of the Trace, the parkway offers 26 historical and/or natural attractions. During 2009 the most popular attractions along this section of the Natchez Trace Parkway were (ordered south to north along the parkway - mileposts start at zero in Natchez, MS):

Glenrock Branch - milepost 364.5 (near Collinwood, TN)
From the parking area it is a short walk down a trail to this natural ampitheater. The creek and limestone bluff bend around the shaded picnic area.
Fall Hollow Waterfall - milepost 391.9 (near Hohenwald, TN)
A path and a set of wooden bridges take you across the small creeks before they begin their tumbling descent. The easy part of the path ends at an observation deck where you can look down at the largest waterfall.
Jackson Falls - milepost 404.7
A steep, 900 foot long trail takes you to a beautifully sculptured cascade that seems ageless but it isn't.
Garrison Creek - milepost 427.6 (near Leiper's Fork, TN)
Named for a nearby 1801-02 U.S. Army post, this area is a trailhead for horseback riders and hikers on the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail.
Double-Arched Bridge - milepost 438 (near Franklin, TN)
Completed in 1994, the double-arched bridge that spans Birdsong Hollow received the Presidential Award for Design Excellence in 1995 for its innovative design that rises 155 feet above the valley. The bridge carries Trace travelers 1,648 feet across the valley

Popularity was determined by how often each attraction's information was viewed during 2009 at NatchezTraceTravel.com. Would love to hear your comments about your favorite attractions on the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee.

Most Popular Alabama Attractions on the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-01-04T13:45:00.002-06:00

The Natchez Trace Parkway generally follows the route of the Old Natchez Road for 31 miles through the northwest corner of Alabama. Along the Alabama section of the Trace, the parkway offers 7 historical and/or natural attractions. During 2009 the most popular attractions along this section of the Natchez Trace Parkway were (ordered south to north along the parkway - mileposts start at zero in Natchez, MS):

Colbert Ferry - milepost 327.3 (near Cherokee AL)
George Colbert operated a ferry across the Tennessee River from 1800 to 1819. Today, a half-mile long bridge transports Natchez Trace travelers across the river.
Rock Spring - milepost 330.2 (near Florence, AL)
A self-guided nature trail and stepping stones lead you across Colbert Creek past Rock Spring and through the woodlands.

Most Popular Mississippi Attractions on the Natchez Trace Parkway

2010-01-03T19:21:00.004-06:00

The Natchez Trace Parkway generally follows the route of the Old Natchez Road for 310 miles through the state of Mississippi. Along the way the parkway offers 62 historical and/or natural attractions. During 2009 the most popular attractions along the Mississippi section of the Natchez Trace Parkway were (ordered south to north along the parkway - mileposts start at zero in Natchez, MS):

Mount Locust - milepost 15.5 (near Natchez, MS)
One of the oldest structures in Mississippi, Mount Locust is the only remaining inn or "stand", of more than 50, that once dotted the Old Natchez Trace during the period of about 1785 to 1830.
Owens Creek Waterfall - milepost 52.4 (near Port Gibson, MS)
After heavy rain water rushes over the waterfall. A 2.5 mile hiking trail connects this area with Rocky Springs.
Rocky Springs - milepost 54.8 (near Port Gibson, MS)
First settled in the late 1790s, the town grew from a watering place along the Natchez Trace, and took its name from the source of that water - the rocky springs.
Cypress Swamp - milepost 122.0 (near Canton, MS)
A self-guiding nature trail takes you around and over a water tupelo and bald cypress swamp.
French Camp - milepost 180.7 (French Camp, MS)
French Camp Historic District sits alongside the Natchez Trace. Come discover how early American life used to be in this quaint log cabin village.
Witch Dance - milepost 233.2 (near Houston, MS)
The very name conjures visions of eerie midnights, swirling black capes and brooms stacked against a nearby tree. The old folks say the witches gathered here to dance and wherever their feet touched the ground the grass withered and died never to grow again.
Tupelo Visitors Center - milepost 266.0 (Tupelo, MS)
The Natchez Trace Headquarters is located adjacent to the parkway and includes an information center, bookstore, exhibits, nature walk and a hiking trail that will take you from the visitor's center to Old Town Overlook and the Chickasaw Village Site.

Hope Farm Bed and Breakfast - Natchez, Mississippi

2009-12-19T16:08:00.001-06:00

Natchez bed and breakfast, built 1774 to 1789, listed on the National Register & featured in Country Inns; once owned by the Spanish Governor of the Territory. On fifteen acres, within Natchez city limits. Exquisite antique furniture from early 18th century, each guest room with distinctive four-poster bed with draped testers. Big Southern-style breakfast and tour of the home included.

More information, pictures, rates, map/directions:
NatchezTraceTravel.com or 800.377.2770

Devereaux Shields House B&B - Natchez, MS

2009-12-19T15:46:00.003-06:00

This Victorian bed and breakfast is composed of two homes, the elegant 1893 main house, and the charming 1877 Aunt Clara’s Cottage. They feature manicured gardens, verandas, and lovely antiques. A few blocks from the 200 foot high Natchez Bluffs, which offer a stunning view of the Mississippi River. Full Southern breakfast.

More information, pictures, rates, map/directions:
NatchezTraceTravel.com or 800.377.2770

Hugh's Cottage - Natchez, Mississippi

2009-12-09T13:30:00.002-06:00

A cottage built in the classic “shot-gun” style in 1910 and restored in 2004. Conveniently located in the Natchez historic residential district within walking distance of the business district. The hosts live across the street and provide complimentary beverages but breakfast is on your own. TV, coffee pot, refrigerator, microwave, and wireless internet.