Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic road running from the Nashville area south to Natchez, Mississippi. Its two-lane route passes through wooded landscapes, with no billboards or commercial stops along the parkway. Pull off to walk marked trails, visit waterfalls and overlooks, or read historical markers about Native peoples, settlers and the natural landscape. You can drive the route in a couple of days, but allow extra time if you want to explore its many stops. Bring food and drinks, as amenities along the way are limited.

A scenic route with room to stop

The Natchez Trace Parkway covers about 444 miles between the Nashville area and Natchez, Mississippi. The two-lane road passes through trees, with no billboards or commercial businesses along the parkway. Traffic is described as light, and the route has exits to highways and nearby towns if you need to leave it.

There is no fee to enter or use the parkway. The journey can take around two days, with longer needed if you stop at more of the points of interest.

Trails, waterfalls and historical markers

Marked walking trails, waterfalls, overlooks and small parks give you places to get out of the car along the way. Historical markers cover Native peoples, settlers and natural history. Camping areas are also among the stops on the route.

Plan for limited services on the parkway itself: pack food and drinks, and use the exits to reach nearby towns when needed. The northern end is accessible from the Nashville area, making it a practical starting point for a drive south.