I call it “the long and winding road”.
More than just a “piece of pavement” stretching from Tennessee to Mississippi, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a piece of history — a journey to be cherished, and a route that relatively few have traveled.
Take it from me… I’ve biked it (and driven it) on numerous occasions, and there’s hardly ever a soul out there!
The Surroundings
The terrain is noticeably different on the southern end of the Trace, as opposed to the northern end.
In Tennessee, for example, you are into the foothills with rolling countryside and considerably more trees and forests. In the fall, the changing colors of the trees make it all the more remarkable.
Along the way, you will see manicured grassy roadsides and native tree plantings intermingled with a mosaic of hardwood and softwood forest communities, wetlands, prairie landscapes, agricultural croplands, abundant wildlife, and architecturally significant bridges and structures.
The Roadway Itself
The entire length of the Natchez Trace Parkway is paved roadway that is in very good condition.
There are numerous hills and bridges… especially at the northern end in Tennessee.
The Natchez Trace Parkway boundary averages 800 feet in width.
The stretch of roadway called the Natchez Trace Parkway is definitely “the road less traveled”.
Such is why, if you should ever have the opportunity… you must take the time to see the Natchez Trace Parkway!
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).
