The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile recreational road and scenic drive
through three states. It roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace," a historic
travel corridor used by American Indians, "Kaintucks," European settlers,
slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. Today, people can enjoy a
scenic drive as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping along
the Parkway.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile recreational road and scenic drive through three states. It roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace," a historic travel corridor used by American Indians, "Kaintucks," European settlers, slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. Today, people can enjoy a scenic drive as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping along the Parkway.

Built in 1848, this monument commemorates the life of Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery. Lewis died near the monument while traveling the Natchez Trace in 1809. Though questions exist, most historians believe Lewis died of suicide.

Meriwether Lewis Monument (milepost 385.9) on the Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway commemorates a historic travel route that helped build the young United States. The Parkway 444 miles, with plenty of stops to allow you to explore some of the history or enjoy the scenery along the way.

Natchez Trace Parkway in Early Fall

The elegant Double Arch Bridge won the Presidential Award for Design Excellence in 1995. It spans Birdsong Hollow and Tennessee Highway 96. To see it from below, take the TN 96 exit and stop at the pulloff before you get to the highway.

Double Arch Bridge over Birdsong Hollow (milepost 438) on the Natchez Trace Parkway

The "Old Trace," the historic trail commemorated by the Natchez Trace Parkway today, still survives in segments. The Old Trace was the main road through the Old Southwest, connecting Natchez to Nashville by going through Chickasaw and Choctaw lands.

Old Trace (milepost 221.4) on the Natchez Trace Parkway

Mount Locust served as a family home and as a stand, or inn, for Natchez Trace travelers. Built around 1780, the home and grounds are open for visitors during operating hours.

Natchez Trace Parkway

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