How to Hike the Natchez Trace Trail

Hikers in the Southeast can follow the paths of explorers and Native American tribes on the Natchez Trace Trail. This trail was designed to memorialize the well-worn path between the Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers. The shorter distance of the Natchez Trace Trail compared to other hiking trails allows a hiker to take in the sights at his own pace.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Backpack
• Binoculars

1. Travel along the Rocky Springs portion of the Natchez Trace Trail to begin your expedition. This section of the Trail takes less than 20 minutes to hike and will leave you looking at a striking view of Owen Creek in Mississippi.
2. Witness the traditions of daily life in a Native American village by taking the Tupilo Trail portion of the Natchez Trace Parkway. This short trail through northeast Mississippi features the Chickasaw Village Site which celebrates the proud tradition of this Native American nation.
3. Plan your hike on the Natchez Trace Trail around the Cypress Swamp in Mississippi. The Ridgeland Trail section of this memorial trail sweeps past the Pearl River and ends with the foliage-rich swamp.
4. Switch between the Garrison Creek Loop Trail and the Natchez Trace Trail as you hike through Tennessee. The older trail in this region starts at Garrison Creek and loops underneath the Natchez Trace Parkway with a path to the modern trail after a few miles.
5. Complete the Natchez Trace Trail with the Leipers Fork leg into Tennessee. This paved pathway is the lone portion of the Natchez Trace in the Volunteer State and ends about 30 minutes from Nashville.
6. Slow your pace through the Natchez Trace Trail by reserving a spot for an evening at a local campground. There are three campgrounds located along the Parkway that fill up quickly throughout the year.
7. Participate in Pioneer Day along the Natchez Trace Parkway to gain some historical perspective during your hike. This event takes place at the beginning of April each year and mixes Native American dances, reenactments and games designed for the entire family.
8. Schedule your trip to Natchez Trace Parkway based on the limited schedules of attractions along the trail. The visitor center is open year round but the Mount Locust Historic Inn and Colbert Ferry are open during spring and summer due to budget constraints.

Tips & Warnings

• Find map and fee information at the Natchez Trace Parkway website (see Resources below).
• Arrange for a stop along the Little Mountain Overlook in Mississippi as part of your Natchez Trace Trail hike. This vantage point allows a hiker to look down on beautiful valleys along the Trail from a 600-foot elevation. Pack a pair of strong binoculars to look back on the Trail and follow wild animals along the Natchez Trace Parkway.