Got an e-mail from Ray D. today. He writes:

I'm stationed at Ft Campbell, KY and would like to know the best way to tour part of the Trace on a Saturday or Sunday drive. Looking at directions from Nashville and just touring the portions of the Natchez Trace within TN with maybe side stops for lunch and or dinner or just snacks. Thanks for any feedback."

Following are my recommendations for a daytrip along the Tennessee portion of the Natchez Trace Parkway...

The very first (or very last, depending on which direction you're heading) gas station on the Natchez Trace Parkway is the Shell Station near the intersection of Highway 100 and the Natchez Trace Parkway.

There is also a cut-through to/from Bellevue using McCrory Lane, which intersects Highway 100 right next to the Shell Station.

It's springtime on the Natchez Trace Parkway -- as evidenced by all the colorful budding trees on either side of the roadway.

Enjoy the colors...