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Sequestration Effects on the Parkway
On March 1, 2013, the Parkway was required to reduce its annual budget by five percent, in accordance with the sequestration provision of the Budget Control Act of 2011. Click the link to learn about visitor center, restroom, and services impacts. More »
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Portion of National Scenic Trail Near Tupelo Closed to Hikers
Part of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail (NOT the Parkway) near Tupelo, MS, has been closed until 2015 due to construction under Tupelo's Major Thoroughfare Construction Project. Parkway travelers may expect delays, but no detours are expected. More »
Amphibians
The Green Tree frog is one of fifteen frog and toad species that call the Natchez Trace Parkway home. US Fish and Wildlife Image Amphibians abound along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Stroll down one of the park’s many wetland paths and one of these cold-blooded vertebrates may be only a hop, skip or jump away. Fifteen species of frogs, from big Bullfrogs to stealthy Leopard frogs, are known to live within the woods and wetlands preserved along the parkway. Spring Peepers, Bird-voiced frogs, and Cricket frogs may serenade a patient visitor who finds a quiet place and spends a few minutes listening. Peer into a quiet pond in springtime and be prepared to spy a tadpole.
Newts and salamanders are plentiful within the park as well. To observe the Slimy salamander or Three-toed amphiuma, you may have to slow down and look closely. The Red-spotted newt and Mole salamander are likewise masters of camouflage. Unfortunately, our amphibians are very vulnerable to traffic, particularly south of Interstate 20 in Mississippi. They frequently try to cross the parkway between December and March in an attempt to reach their breeding pools. Click here to find out how you can help. A complete list of amphibians can be found here. |
Did You Know?
George Colbert operated a stand and ferry to cross the Tennessee River and is rumored to have charged Andrew Jackson $75,000 to ferry his army across the river.