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Natchez Trace Parkway Alabama

Natchez Trace Parkway Alabama, 1 August day More Pictures | Map | GPS

Overview The 444+ mile Natchez Trace Parkway is a roadway designed to help you appreciate the ancient trail used by both people and animals. It connected southern parts of the Mississippi River all the way through Alabama and to the special salt licks of central Tennessee. You can do all sorts of things along this National Scenic Byway and All-American Road like day road trips, Vanabode travel, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even camping in state and private campgrounds along the way.

Outdoor Activities include:

Camping in any of the 3 campgrounds located on the Parkway. The nice thing is you don't need reservations to camp here. They are primitive but clean and ample privacy can be obtained except on holidays. There are of course many others along this 400+ mile stretch that have full hookups, showers, laundry facilities, etc. for the larger motorhomes and RV's.

war soilder reenactment event

Image shows marching dress up soldiers during one of the special reenactment events held through out the year on this famous stretch of land.

Biking along the Natchez Trace Parkway can be real treat for those wanting to spend a longer bit of time in this area. It is a designated bike route and is very popular during the spring. Prices for food along the route can get more expensive than you might otherwise find on other roads.

Image shows theMount Locust Historic Inn at mile marker 15.5 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. It is one of the most
significant historic sites in Mississippi. Originally constructed as an
inn or "stand", Mount Locust offers you the chance to see what houses and living were like when pioneers and travelers used the old Trace as the primary road or path for transporting goods and moving from North to South.

Birdsong Hollow and Highway 96 Double-Arched Bridge

Image shows theBirdsong Hollow and Highway 96 Double-Arched Bridge found at mile marker 438. It was finished in 1994 and rises 155 feet above the valley. The bridge carries Trace travelers 1,648 feet across the valley and Tennessee Highway 96.

Just north of the bridge there is a parking area with a view of the bridge and the valley below. You could also picnic there if you want but there tends to be lots of activity so don't expect privacy any time of the day. Early mornings and just before sunset the bugs are crazy and biting almost the second you step from the van.

Special Events happen every year. There are cultural events like dress up Pioneer Days, as well as historical programs. Plan ahead as campgrounds are full during these events.

Image shows Fall Hollow Waterfall frozen up in the Winter. It is located on the Natchez Trace Parkway at mile marker 391.9 and the water flow varies greatly. I prefer it in the summer after heavy rains.

Vanabode Special Notes: This is a great East Coast Vanabode road trip sort of highway. Overnighting is easy all along this route and retail stores are everywhere for restocking. Virtually all areas are appropriate for Vanaboding though the warmer months are rainy, muggy and plagued with plenty of bug activity. I don't prefer this more crowded road trip type travel over the long deserted highways out West but it does have much to offer. Additional information on Alabama road trips.

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