Spring Wildflowers on the Natchez Trace Parkway

Categories
Trace Blog

Travel through dogwoods, redbuds, and blooming wildflowers this spring on the Natchez Trace Parkway!

Spring Wildflowers on the Natchez Trace Parkway

https://youtu.be/XMne0aE4xYs
Redbuds in blossom at milepost 403.7 (credit: Kelsey Lynn)

During the spring months, the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway is set to bloom into full beauty as the sun peeks out and the temperatures rise. We are happy to announce that it’s officially springtime and the dogwoods, redbuds, and blooming wildflowers are popping up along the Trace! It’s the perfect time to get outdoors to enjoy this gorgeous spring scenery.

From Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway is vibrant with wildflowers for all to enjoy. As you travel this 444-mile route, the flowering trees give the perfect opportunity to experience springtime. Whether your unhurried trip through time is by car, RV, bike, or foot, take a moment to appreciate the foliage’s natural charm and snap a picture or two.

See NPS’s list of common wildflowers and where to look for them along the Natchez Trace.

Travelers enjoying the scenery

You can even stumble upon a special site at milepost 275.2 called Dogwood Valley. This site entails a 10-12 minute walk through a valley where unusually large dogwood trees tower overhead, often revealing an array of bright blooms. While walking, you’ll encounter a short section of the original Trace and walk through footsteps of history.

Dogwoods in bloom on the Natchez Trace

But spring isn’t just meant for dogwoods and redbuds to come out and appreciate the sunshine. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreational activities like cycling, hiking, fishing, and camping. Bring your loved ones, friends, and the pups – all is welcome on the Trace!

Check out our Instagram photos and Pinterest board to see more spring flowers dotted along the way. And remember that not only is the Natchez Trace Parkway a National Scenic Byway, it’s also a historic one. Take the time to visit the interpretive sites and attractions to get a true feel of its culture and history.

Springtime is the perfect time to get out and explore the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway! Please keep in mind estimated bloom times are difficult to predict due to the length of the Parkway and the variations in weather. Often times, the blooming of dogwood and redbud trees begin in mid-March on the southern sections of the Parkway and travel north, continuing through late April or early May.

Redbud trees along the Natchez Trace Parkway
Redbud trees along the Natchez Trace Parkway

Start planning your trip! Download your free Natchez Trace Visitors Guide.

Follow @TheNatchezTrace on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! #TheNatchezTrace