Plan Your Visit

How do I visit?

• The Parkway begins in Natchez, MS, passes through Jackson, MS and Tupelo, MS, and ends just south of Nashville, TN. You can start at either end, in the middle, or at one of the many entry points along the way. Visit Directions for information about getting on and off the Parkway.
• A short afternoon drive or a walk on a nature trail will provide a taste of what is available to explore along the 444 miles of the Parkway.
• A three day journey from end to end will allow time to sample a variety of the nature and history along the way.
• Five days will provide time to explore your favorite areas in depth.
• Experienced road bicyclists can spend days enjoying 444-miles of scenic byway. Visit Bicycling to learn more.
• Hikers of all abilities can explore nature on nearly 100 trails ranging from short and paved to rustic trails 27 miles one way. Visit Trails to learn more.
• Check out the Top Ten Insider Tips for Planning Your Visit.

What to expect

• By design, there are no food, gas, or lodging services "on" the Parkway. Hidden beyond the trees, in the many communities along the Parkway's 444-mile length, there is everything that you need and many local venues worth exploring.
• The Parkway maintains restrooms along the way. There is usually no more than 50 miles (an hour of driving) between rest stops.
• Cell phone coverage can be spotty. Use the NPS app and save the Natchez Trace Parkway section of the app to your phone.
• The Parkway road is two lane and only 11 feet wide with no shoulder.
• Stopping points include frequent pullouts with interpretive signs about history and nature. Visit Places to Go for a comprehensive list of our stops.

We highly recommend that you download the free National Park Service app before your visit. You will have virtual access to all National Parks and the ability to download parks for offline use.

 

Basic Information

The Parkway roadway is open 24 hours a day, weather permitting. Please avoid the Parkway during bad weather.

Visit Basic Information for more details on operating hours, directions, and visitor centers.

 

Oops...not open?

Sometimes the extraordinary complexity of the Parkway forces us to close buildings, exhibits, or make partial road closures. Visit Road and Site Status for the most up-to-date information about closures.

 

Plan Ahead

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  Top Ten Ranger Tips for Your Trip

  Planning Tips from the Insiders

  Plan your trip using tips from the rangers who work at the Natchez Trace Parkway.

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  Maps

  Need directions? Find maps of the Parkway here.

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  Driving Around in My RV

  Recreational Vehicles

  Many people travel the Parkway in their RVs. Know the limitations of your rig and the park before you head out.

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  Check out our events calendar

  Attend a Program

  We have regular programs every weekend and special programs offered occasionally. Check our calendar to see upcoming events!

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  Camping

  Three Campgrounds on the Natchez Trace

  There are three campgrounds on the Parkway, located at mileposts 54.8, 193.1, and 385.9. No reservations required.

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  Hit the Trails!

  Short Walks or Long Hikes on the Parkway

  Stretch your legs on short historic walks, try out a paved trail, or walk in the depths of Potkopinu

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  Pets and BARK Ranger

  Pets are Welcome

  Pets on a leash are welcome in outdoor areas. Dogs (and cats that think they are dogs) are welcome to become BARK Rangers.

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  Experience History

  Imagine You were There Then

  10,000 years of history is a lot to choose from. Pick your favorite places.

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  Be a Junior Ranger!

  Kids of All Ages can be Junior Rangers

  Our Junior Ranger program is designed for children 6-13, but anyone who is has the curiosity of a child can participate.

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  WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?

  Weather & Emergency Information

  Inclement weather can come in many forms. Be prepared. This page will provide emergency information for many types of weather.

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  Other Parks and Towns Nearby

  Camp Out or Eat In Towns

  State and federal parks often have hook ups and electricity. Local visitor centers provide information about restaurants and hotels.

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  Want a Bite to Eat or Sleep in Town?

  Our Partner's Website Covers Trace Towns

  Hundreds of towns are just off the Parkway. You can sleep at 5 star hotels or hang out at the local BBQ place, and everything in between.