The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive through three states (TN, AL, MS) that roughly follows a historic travel corridor called the “Old Natchez Trace.” Today, travelers can enjoy many activities and points of interest while soaking up the natural beauty of this enchanting part of Middle Tennessee. The section of the Natchez Trace Parkway located in Lewis County spans the area between the US 412 intersection (milepost 391) and the US 64 intersection (milepost 370).
What makes the Natchez Trace Parkway so special for Lewis County?
This beautiful stretch of highway is directly connected to abundant recreation throughout the region, dotted with plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and bike, camp, hike, fish, and just enjoy natural beauty at a slower pace. While there are plenty of scenic roads today, many of them don’t have National Park status like the Natchez Trace Parkway. It’s maintained by the National Park Service and designated an All-American Road by the United States Department of Transportation.
Frequented sites in Lewis County include:
- Meriwether Lewis death and burial site and park at milepost 385.9 (featuring areas for picnicking, camping, and hiking)
- Little Swan Creek access near milepost 391
- Metal Ford and Buffalo River access at milepost 382.8
- Fall Hollow Falls at milepost 391.9
- Jack’s Branch access at milepost 377.8
- English Camp Creek at milepost 386.4
Perhaps the biggest appeal for visitors of the Natchez Trace Parkway is the abundance of natural scenery…without the hinderance of commercial traffic. The designers of the parkway developed it to not only be a pleasant drive, but also to preserve the rich history of the area, even featuring several historical markers and monuments along the way. The Natchez Trace Parkway is a place where you can truly slow down and unplug from the busyness of life to enjoy an overwhelming calmness. Plus, in nearby Hohenwald, visitors can enjoy plenty of dining options, places to stay, and additional historical points of interest just a stone’s throw away from the parkway.
To put it simply, the Natchez Trace Parkway isn’t like any other road in America. With its abundance of natural scenery and multiple points of interest (without the hinderance of commercial traffic), the Natchez Trace Parkway is a place where you can truly slow down, take in the views, and enjoy a calmness like no other.
Chart your journey and discover the history and numerous recreational opportunities that can be found along the Natchez Trace Parkway, including a designated bicycle route, hiking trails, historical attractions, and much more. Needless to say, there is plenty to do and see along the parkway. Click here to learn more and get ready for an experience you won’t soon forget!