Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444 mile Federal highway that runs from Natchez Mississippi to Nashville Tennessee. The original trace, paralleled by this modern highway, has served many purposes over the years; one of those being a route back to the northeast upon which farmers who, after floating their crops to New Orleans, sold their flatboats for lumber and used this route to get back home. There are centuries old Indian mounds, cemeteries, waterfalls, and historic buildings along the way. Should you decide to travel along this route, here are some things to consider: The speed limit is 50 mph on 95% of this road. It drops to 40 in the extreme upper portion near the terminus in Tennessee. I did run across one park ranger who was running radar. From what I have heard, since this is a federal highway, the ticket may be a federal issue and cost big $$ so be careful. There is one gas station on the highway (ironically it was closed when I passed it), no hotels, no food or convenience stores so plan accordingly. You are not completely cut off from civilization as there are entrances and exits to towns along the way, but there are some long stretches where you are a long way from services. Give yourself two full days to get the most out of it. I need to go back to the northernmost section to finish seeing everything I wanted to see. For me day 1 was Natchez to Tupelo and day 2 was Tupelo to Nashville. I didn't give myself enough time to see everything in the north (which to me is the most beautiful part). If you are easily bored you may find this drive somewhat of a torture after awhile, but if you get out and do some exploring it is well worth the time.
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