Plan Your Perfect Spring: 7 Must-See Spots on the Parkway
As the warm weather and sunny skies approach, plan your perfect spring on the Natchez Trace Parkway! Throughout the 444-mile route, there are many iconic mileposts you don’t want to miss. Spend your time hiking, camping, and exploring the Natchez Trace. Here are a few that you may want to check out along the parkway this spring.
1)The Sunken Trace – Milepost 41.5
The Sunken Trace is a great pit stop when starting your journey along the parkway. The sunken trace takes you back in time to when thousands of travelers walked this exact pathway. Take the time to follow this path through the lush forest, soaking in the fresh air and history.
2)Cypress Swamp – Milepost 122.0
Enjoy a nice bike ride or hike along the abandoned river channel, the Cypress Swamp. In an easy 20 minutes, travelers will follow the .04 mile-long bridge through tree canopies and swampy ponds. Hidden throughout the swamp, alligators quietly tan and float through the marshy waters. The Cypress Swamp is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk through nature.
3)Pharr Mounds – Milepost 286.7
Spread over a 90-acre complex, the Pharr Mounds offer an awesome site that you can’t see everywhere. About 1,800 to 2,000 years ago, native people built 8 dome-shaped mounds that became a big part of civic and religious ceremonies and rituals. Explore the mounds that Native Americans used as ancient burial sites and trading posts for everyday items. Take a peak at history and explore the Pharr Mounds!
4)Rock Spring – Milepost 330.2
Take in beautiful sites and fresh air as you explore milepost 330.2, the Rock Springs. A mile loop offering views of natural springs and sparkling creeks. Hike the 20-minute route taking in the environment and all of its features. End your walk soaking up this little piece of heaven.
5)Meriwether Lewis Site – Milepost 385.9
Visit The Meriwether Lewis Site to learn more about the mysterious death of Meriwether Lewis at this historical milepost. A monument marks Meriwether’s burial ground, honoring his memory and accomplishments. The Meriwether Lewis Site offers a campground for visitors to stay at while they explore the 300-acre park. This must-see site brings history and adventure together, making it a great stop when traveling along the parkway.
6)Fall Hallow Trail – Milepost 391.9
Fall Hallow Trail is 1 of the waterfalls that can be seen when following along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Follow the path of wooden bridges and the sounds of rushing water and you will find 3 amazing waterfalls. A short walk will lead visitors to an observation deck where they can admire the tallest waterfall out of the 3, which is 20 feet tall. On this .3-mile hike, embrace the beauty of these cascading waterfalls.
7)Jackson Falls – Milepost 404.7 and Baker Bluff Overlook – Milepost 405.1
A stop where you can get double the views! Starting at Jackson Falls, a steep hill takes you to the perfect spot to view the base of the beautiful waterfalls. This is 1 of 2 waterfalls that can be seen when following the parkway, so don’t miss your opportunity to visit! A short half-mile will take you to milepost 405.1, Baker Bluff Overlook. Here, take in the scenic views of the farmland filled with barns, crops, and grazing animals. Take advantage of both of these scenic beauties on your next trip!
Plan your Spring Adventure on the Parkway
This spring, don’t miss your opportunity to explore some of these beautiful spots that the Natchez Trace Parkway offers. Whether you’re planning a road trip, the perfect hike, or just taking in the sights, a trip to one of these destinations will create the perfect adventure!
