It’s that time of year for gift giving, and communities along the Natchez Trace Parkway have wonderful local shops where you can do all of your Christmas shopping!

More than 14 years ago Williamson County got a hold of 74 acres adjacent to the Natchez Trace Parkway. Now, the county has finished transforming what was once declared surplus property into a public park that all visitors can enjoy.

The Natchez Trace Parkway saw a significant jump in the number of visitors last month compared to September 2013… and there’s a reason for it! See why more people are discovering and visiting the Natchez Trace.

It’s October which means pumpkin pie, spooky Halloween costumes and beautiful views on the Natchez Trace Parkway. In fact, VisitSouth recommended the Trace as one of 20 Grand Scenic Road Trips in 2014. Learn more about fall colors on the Parkway!

In middle to late October, the maple, hickory, oak and other hardwood trees begin to change colors and visitors have the opportunity to view the beautiful fall foliage along the Natchez Trace.

The Natchez Trace Parkway extends an impressive 444 miles from Natchez, MS to Nashville, TN. It was named one of the most visited units of the National Park System last year. From traveling, hiking, biking, its history, the attractions and its beauty, it’s safe to say the Natchez Trace is one of Mississippi’s, Alabama’s and Tennessee’s best-kept secrets.

If you’re planning to hit the road this summer instead of worry with pricey airfares, we say that’s an excellent choice to make. The Natchez Trace Parkway leads you 444 miles through three states and 10,000 years of North American history, and has everything you’ve ever wanted in road trip, plus more! In fact, CNN Money just named the Natchez Trace Parkway one of six great American road trips.

For the second year, the Natchez Trace Parkway was named as a category winner for the best hiking destination in Mississippi. The winners were chosen by a reader survey highlighted in the July/August issue of Mississippi Magazine.

You can join a park ranger for stories, songs, and fun around a campfire on Saturday, July 12, 2014, at 7:30 p.m. This one hour program will meet at the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail Trailhead near milepost 266 on the Natchez Trace Parkway.