National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Natchez Trace National Scenic TrailA trail marker along the Tupelo Trail.
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail
Frequently Asked Questions

1.  Does the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail run the entire length of the Natchez Trace Parkway?

No, presently there are four disconnected segments of the trail that total about 65 miles of trail.  It is possible to hike the entire length of the Parkway, but it would require walking along the motor road in areas where there were no segments of the scenic trail.

2.  Is there much elevation change along the trail?

Not relative to trails you find in mountainous areas.  The Mississippi segments are relatively flat.  The Tennessee segment has the most elevation change of the four segments, but is not considered difficult.

3.  Can hikers walk sections of the original Old Natchez Trace?

Yes, portions of the scenic trail are on sections of the Old Trace.  There are signs on the trail, and designations on the trail maps that indicated where they are.

A Spanish bronze cannon shown the characteristic green patina caused by copper rusting  

Did You Know?
Black, or gun, powder is a mix of potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal used as a propellant charge in cannons. Burning rapidly when ignited, it expands 600 times its volume creating pressures that can hurl a cannonball up to 3.5 miles! Ft Matanzas National Monument, Florida

Last Updated: August 01, 2006 at 10:03 EST