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Lynnette Walczak

We've lived in the Nashville area since 2001 -- and all 3 of our houses have been situated relatively close to the Natchez Trace Parkway. To me, the 'The Trace' is a hidden gem of Nashville -- a place to go when you want to get away from it all and be one with nature. I've hiked it, biked it, motorcycled it, walked it with my dogs, and driven my car on The Natchez Trace Parkway more times than I can count! This is where I share some of my favorite things to do along the Natchez Trace Parkway -- which runs 444 miles from Nashville Tennessee to Natchez Mississippi and through parts of Alabama. When I'm not enjoying the beautiful outdoors along the Natchez Trace Parkway, you'll find me at the corner of Good News & Fun Times as publisher of The Fun Times Guide (32 fun & helpful websites).

The Natchez Trace has been designated as one of the Top 10 U.S. Biking Routes. In fact, the entire length of the Natchez Trace Parkway is designated as a bicycle tour route. However, there are no shoulders or designated bike lanes. Here are some tips for bicycling on the Natchez Trace Parkway...

Here's a sweet & peaceful review of a few things seen along the Natchez Trace Parkway on January 6, 2007.

Around here, we refer to wild turkeys as Tennessee yard birds. And it is practically guaranteed that every time you take a drive in the country, you will see a Tennessee turkey. Usually more than one. Here's proof...

In Glen Wanner's book, 'Bicycling The Natchez Trace' you'll find the best locations along the Trace for food, water and lodging, plus lots of practical advice to make your bike ride even more enjoyable. You'll get a pretty good grasp of what you can expect while bicycling on the Natchez Trace Parkway. And want to pack this book and take it with you when you ride!

Not only are commercial vehicles prohibited on the Natchez Trace Parkway, but the speed limit is closely regulated as well. In fact, the maximum speed limit along the Natchez Trace Parkway is 50 mph most of the way. And for one long stretch of roadway, it's only 40 mph.

If you're thinking, 'They probably don't patrol the Natchez Trace Parkway anyway...' Think again.

This will give you some idea of what you can expect to see as you drive along the Natchez Trace... particularly along the northernmost portion through Tennessee.

Wondering what it's like to drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway? Thanks to Columbia7200, a motorcycle rider from Spring Hill, Tennessee... now you can! Check out his awesome videos of 4 scenic drives along the Natchez Trace Parkway -- beginning at the arched bridge over Highway 96 in Franklin, TN and going all the way to Highway 50 near Columbia, TN.

Tennessee colors compared one Saturday afternoon, and the following Sunday morning... what a difference a day makes when the colors are at their peak!