Last updated: October 13, 2023
Article
Insider Tips - Before You Visit the Natchez Trace Parkway

NPS/Marc Muench
Below are 10 tips that will help you prepare for and enjoy your journey and avoid the crowds. The Parkway is one of the 10 most visited park units, but because everyone is spread out over 444 miles, you can almost always find solitude, and enjoy a relaxing drive.
The busiest places on the Parkway are Meriwether Lewis Campground, Garrison Creek, and Jackson Falls. If you are looking for solitude, check out other places on the Parkway.

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(NOTE: HWY 840 in TN, and HWY 45 in Tupelo, MS are not entry points)
Check out our
Directions page
And
Getting Around
Tip #2: There are places on the Parkway where cell phone coverage is weak or non-existant. Download the free National Park Service app and save the Natchez Trace Parkway section to your phone.

NPS Photo/ Daniel Shawl
NOTE: Please do not ask a ranger why there are only 442 mileposts. We all have therories but the real answer has long been forgotten.

NPS Photo/ J Brewer
While driving the 444-mile long Parkway, you may need to make a pit stop or two. Established in the 1930s, sometimes our plumbing is not always cooperative, and restrooms may be closed. Restrooms can be many miles apart so take advantage of functional facilities when you have a chance. If you have a personal urge emergency, this is what to do.

NPS photo / Marc Muench
Sub-tropical means it rains a lot, and it can be hot eight months out of the year. Be prepared. Keep track of the weather because we occasionally get strong and dangerous storms that can develop suddenly. Winter weather is usually mild, but snow or ice is not that unusual.
Pet Safety: Your pup is welcome everywhere except buildings. Don't forget parked cars can overheat very quickly, so don't leave your dog in the car. When outside, your dog always needs to be on a leash 6' or shorter.

NPS Photo/J Farmer
Bicylists should make note of this and plan to avoid congested areas during rush hours.

Photo Sherwood Photography
The Parkway should be considered for experienced bicyclists because of traffic. Bicyclists are encouraged to wear high-visibility clothing and helmets, use lights at all times, and avoid citiy areas at rush hour. Learn more about riding the Parkway by going to our bicycling web page.
We suggest families and inexperienced riders stick to campgrounds and picnic areas.
Or:
Rails to Trails, Tanglefoot Trail, near Tupelo, MS.
Chisha Folka Multiuse Trail, near Jackson, MS.
Trail bike riding can be done at Trace State Park near Tupelo, MS

NPS Photo
Please remember that all wildlife is protected. This includes snakes which are vital to help keep the natural world balanced.

NPS Photo/ Brian Powers
Tip #10: If you don't want to rough it, there are accomodations at small towns and large cities spaced out along the length of the Parkway. Make your reservations in advance especially during the fall football season. The folks in the south love their college football.