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Visitor's Guide



Download the 2009 Natchez Trace Visitor's Guide

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ScenicTrace.com arrow ScenicTrace.com arrow About the Natchez Trace
About the Natchez Trace PDF Print E-mail

History

Stretching from the Mississippi River in Natchez through the Shoals area in Alabama and across the Tennessee Valley to Nashville, the Old Trace was first trod by buffalo, then American Indians. In the early 1800's, it was the main return route for Ohio Valley traders who, rather than fight the Mississippi currents, sold their flatboats for the value of their timber in Natchez and walked home via the Old Trace. By the mid-1820's, steamboats made the dangerous trek unnecessary, and the Old Trace disappeared into the trees.

Beauty

Today, the 444-mile National Scenic Byway and All-American Road has emerged as one of America's most important examples of our nation's natural and cultural heritage. Administered by the National Park Service, the road's non-commercial environment coupled with a wide variety of historic sites, wayside exhibits and beautiful venues make it a memorable destination for an unhurried trip that both reveals and explains a unique time in our country's history.

Recreation

Visitors today will discover richly scenic areas, numerous hiking trails, picnic sites, campgrounds and water recreation areas. Hiking on the Parkway presents both challenges and rewards. Over 60 miles of National Scenic Trail and 28 different hiking and self-guiding trails are open year-round. RVing on the parkway offers a great ride, and motorcycling and biking are popular with hundreds of miles of scenic, winding road between Natchez and Nashville.

Take a look at a recent bike ride held on the parkway

Regulations and Safety

  • Obey posted speed limits.
  • Be alert for animals on the parkway.
  • Avoid fatigue by stopping often and taking walks.
  • Hunting and the possession of loaded firearms are prohibited.
  • All Terrain Vehicles are prohibited.
  • Special hauling restrictions apply. All commercial vehicles are prohibited.
  • Tent and trailer camping are permitted only at designated campgrounds .
  • All natural, historical and archeological objects are protected by federal law.
  • Build fires only in fire rings and grills.
  • The Natchez Trace Parkway is a designated bike route. Be considerate of bicyclists; yield when necessary.
  • Report all accidents, fires and emergencies to the nearest park ranger or the Parkway's emergency number at 800-300-PARK(7275).




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