Closure of Rocky Springs Section, National Scenic Trail

PORT GIBSON, MS: Portions of the Rocky Springs section of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail will be closed until further notice. Due to safety concerns with trail erosion and bridge deficiencies, the trail will be closed to pedestrian and equestrian traffic from the Rocky Springs campground to the northern terminus of the trail at Fisher Ferry Road. “The trail has more than $250,000 in deferred maintenance needs, and we are working to acquire the needed funding to make those repairs,” stated Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail Coordinator Greg Smith.

To build capacity and engage the public about this national scenic trail, the Natchez Trace Parkway is working with the Natchez Trace Parkway Association to train volunteers to care for the trail. “In 2018, two volunteer trainings will be held to educate volunteer trail leaders, who will then be able to oversee routine volunteer trail maintenance projects,” stated Chief of Resource Management Dr. Lisa McInnis.

Visitors should observe posted closures. For additional information about this project and the Parkway, please call (800) 305-7417.