Looking for a road trip that’s as educational as it is relaxing? Check out the Natchez Trace Parkway, an iconic 444-mile scenic drive through scenic woodlands and historic towns in the American South.
This relaxed route weaves through picturesque landscapes and historic sites, offering plenty of opportunities to pull over for a picnic or a photo. Whether your group is curious about Native American history or looking for natural beauty, you won’t be disappointed by this breathtaking drive through the heart of the U.S. We’re sharing everything you need to know about this famous drive, from must-see stops to historic information, travel tips and more.
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What is the Natchez Parkway?
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a National Scenic Byway that follows a route once used by Native Americans, traders and settlers. Today, this 444-mile route offers a glimpse into the region’s history, along with breathtaking natural scenery. Between its wildlife gems and historic landmarks, the route will thrill families and groups looking for a road trip that’s as relaxing as it is enriching.
Where Does the Natchez Trace Parkway Start and End?
The Natchez Trace Parkway starts in Nashville, Tennessee, and ends in Natchez, Mississippi, near the Louisiana border. When planning your route, feel free to start at either end or access it from any of its major entry points throughout its three states.
If the open road still calls your name by the time you’re done, consider heading west for a Texas road trip filled with even more scenic views and historic charm.
How Long Does it Take to Drive the Whole Natchez Trace Parkway?
From start to finish, traveling the full 444 miles of the Natchez Trace Parkway takes approximately 10 hours. However, be sure to allow extra time to stop and enjoy the hiking trails and historic sites along the way. Many travelers spend 30 to 90 minutes at each stop, depending on how much they want to explore.
The Best Time to Drive the Natchez Trace Pkwy
The time of year you travel will greatly influence your experience. Here are things to consider before planning your trip.
- Spring (March to May): Spring offers mild temperatures, comfortable for hiking and outdoor exploration. Plus, you can witness the stunning wildflowers bloom. Prepare yourself for some occasional spring showers, though, as Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama often experience spring rain.
- Summer (June to August): Planning this trip for summer break? You’ll enjoy warm weather and long daylight hours, ideal for hiking and camping. Just be ready for crowds at major attractions.
- Fall (September to November): It’s hard not to love the vibrant fall foliage on the parkway. You can expect light crowds, too. But remember to pack layers if you plan on hiking, since mornings and evenings can be cold.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is an ideal time to drive the parkway for a peaceful escape. Crowds are minimal, and you might even see it blanketed in snow. However, some attractions may be closed since it’s the off-season.
For optimal crowd levels and climate, we recommend traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway in the spring or fall. You’ll avoid the high crowds and prices of summer, without facing winter weather complications and closures.
7 Must-See Stops Along the Natchez Trace Parkway
Ready for a history lesson wrapped in natural beauty? Below are our favorite 7 must-see stops along the Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee.
1. Meriwether Lewis Monument and Grave (Hohenwald, TN)
This stop is the burial site of Meriwether Lewis (of Lewis and Clark). Today, the site serves as a place to recognize Lewis’s contribution to America’s geographical expansion. Visitors can stroll the grounds, read interpretive signs and walk through the humble pioneer cemetery.
Travel Tip: Gather around the monument for a family photo while reflecting on the life of one of America’s most famous discoverers. It’s the perfect place to celebrate the spirit of adventure and exploration.
2. Leiper’s Fork (South of Franklin, TN)
Enjoy small-town charm and laid-back vibes in Leiper’s Fork, also known as Nashville’s Big Back Yard. It’s a refreshing stop between historic sites and nature hikes where you can shop for vintage gems and artisan crafts at Props Antiques before satisfying your sweet tooth at Bubble Joy.
Travel Tip: If you visit in the summer, catch an outdoor movie night at the Lawnchair Theatre. The same venue hosts Fork Fest, a family-friendly music festival in the fall.
3. Pharr Mounds (Tupelo, MS)
If your kids are getting antsy along the Mississippi Natchez Trace Parkway section of the trip, pull over at Pharr Mounds. Here, you can pay your respects at one of the largest burial mound sites in the U.S. Pharr Mounds is a peaceful spot to stretch your legs while learning about Native American history.
Travel Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the interpretive signs along the way. There, you can learn about each site’s significance in Native American culture, including ceremonies and trading traditions.
4. Emerald Mound (Natchez, MS)
Emerald Mound is another massive Native American mound along the Natchez Trail in Mississippi, once the site of cultural and spiritual ceremonies for ancestors of the Natchez people. The informational signs provide a glimpse into indigenous history, while the serene settings are perfect for a picnic or a stroll.
Travel Tip: Kids will love running up (and probably rolling down) the now grass-covered mound, enjoying panoramic views of the nearby countryside.
5. Natchez Trail (MS and TN)
If you want an extended hike, hop out of the car and explore the Natchez Trail portion of the route. This historic network of hiking and horseback riding trails follows sections of the Natchez Trace Parkway. You can even take a dip at Jackson Falls or Fall Hollow near mileposts 404-391, two popular, easy-to-access waterfalls on the trail.
Travel Tip: Walk in the footsteps of the Natchez people on the Sunken Trace, around milepost 41.5. This section of the original Trace is slowly sunken due to erosion.
6. Rock Spring (Florence, AL)
For a refreshing break in nature, pull off at milepost 330.2 and explore a natural spring. The water is a pleasant 20-minute walk from the road, through an abandoned field. Animal lovers in your crew will adore the tiny fish that live in the water and the rare hummingbirds that frequent the area.
Travel Tip: If you’re traveling in the hotter months, try taking your shoes off, sitting on the stone-paved pathway and dipping your feet in the cool water. It’s a great temporary reprieve from the summer heat.
7. Tupelo National Battlefield (Tupelo, MS)
Tupelo National Battlefield is a quiet, one-acre park with a granite monument honoring a pivotal Civil War battle. Two cannons on-site help bring the history to life, and the flagpole offers a thoughtful spot for a photo to remember your visit.
Travel Tip: The nearby visitor center features a short film about the battlefield and park rangers, ready to answer questions.
Tips for Traveling the Natchez Parkway
A little planning can help ensure a seamless and unforgettable adventure. Before you hit the road, reference our helpful travel tips:
- BYO Entertainment: Bring plenty of travel games, activity books and kids’ maps to keep everyone entertained during the journey.
- Take Frequent Breaks: Pull over frequently to prevent driving burnout. Luckily, you’re never far from an interesting or picturesque stop on this road trip.
- Prepare for Weather Variability: Pack for changing weather conditions, especially during the spring when you can experience sun and rain on the same day. Bring sunscreen, layers and rain gear to stay comfortable.
- Stay Hydrated and Fed: While there are plenty of places to buy food and drinks on the route, sometimes younger passengers can’t wait for the next offramp. So keep water bottles and snacks handy.
- Consider Age-Appropriate Stops: Some sites, particularly the burial sites, might be too serious for young children. Consider whether your kids will be comfortable with the sites and subject matters at certain stops.
Overall, nearly all of the Natchez Trace Parkway in MS, AL and TN is an easy drive. By following these simple tips, you can avoid small bumps in the road and make the most of the trip.
Plan Your Natchez Trace Parkway Road Trip with Rand McNally
Prepare to slow down and soak up history on the Natchez Trace Parkway. You’re about to create unique memories with your travel crew as you dive into Native American heritage at strikingly beautiful sites.
For the best experience, remember to bring our road maps and atlases for those stretches without cell service. Packed with detailed insights, clear attraction and road markers and insider tips, our paper travel products help you find your way, and maybe a little magic while you’re at it.
Natchez Trace Parkway FAQ
If you need more information to prepare for your travels, here are answers to the most commonly asked questions about this iconic road trip.
Where is Natchez Trace Parkway?
Natchez Trace Parkway is in the southeastern United States, stretching 444 miles through scenic areas of Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee.
What is special about the Natchez Trace Parkway?
Natchez Trace Parkway is a historic route once used by Native Americans, traders, and settlers that now offers a glimpse into early American history and preserved cultural sites. Here’s another fun fact about the Natchez Trace: National Park Service added it to its system in 1938, recognizing it as a significant travel corridor.
Is Natchez Trace Parkway a National Park?
Natchez Trace Parkway is not a national park. However, it is a part of the National Park system, meaning the National Park Service has deemed it significant due to its natural or historic sites.
What is the most beautiful part of the Natchez Trace Parkway?
Many consider Jackson Falls and Fall Hollow to be two of the most beautiful sites on the Natchez Trace Parkway. These two serene waterfalls are easily accessible and situated in idyllic settings.
Continue Reading about Iconic Road Trips
If our look at the Natchez Trace Parkway ignited your appreciation for adventure, the journey doesn’t have to end here. Check out our other memorable travel guides, like our Route 66 Road Trip, for those after quirky roadside attractions and a bit of Americana nostalgia. Travel from the Canadian border to the Gulf of Mexico on the scenic Great River Road. Feeling ambitious? We even created a list of the 25 best road trips in the U.S.