Natchez Trace Parkway

Built in 1848, this monument commemorates the life of Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery. Lewis died near the monument while traveling the Natchez Trace in 1809. Though questions exist, most historians believe Lewis died of suicide.
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile recreational road and scenic drive through three states. It roughly follows the "Old Natchez Trace," a historic travel corridor used by American Indians, "Kaintucks," European settlers, slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. Today, people can enjoy a scenic drive as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping along the Parkway.
Map showing location of park.
A roadway with a single car driving. Barren trees and a small smoke cloud fill the left side of the image.
Prescribed fire season begins on Natchez Trace Parkway
The National Park Service will conduct prescribed burns along the Natchez Trace Parkway beginning November 17. Fire season along the parkway will run until May 2026.
A large dump truck and backhoe sit side by side on what was once a two lane road that is now dug down to the dirt level below the road. Deep tire and tractor tracks cover the dirt road bed. The outline of the backhoe operator in a grey shirt is visible in
Natchez Trace Parkway to close in Choctaw and Webster counties (Milepost 181 – 204)
On Monday, June 9 at 2 p.m., the National Park Service will close Natchez Trace Parkway from Mississippi Highway 413 (MP 181) to U.S. Highway 82 (MP 204) in Choctaw and Webster counties in Mississippi. The last night to camp at Jeff Busby campground is Sunday, June 8.
A slightly curvy section of the Natchez Trace Parkway in Early Fall
Photo by NPS Photo
View of the Double Arch Bridge from Birdsong Hollow
Photo by NPS Photo
Mount Locust Historic House
Photo by NPS Photo
A foggy section of the Old Trace in autumn
Photo by NPS Photo