4 Fun Ideas for Spending Labor Day on the Natchez Trace
All around America, folks are looking forward to a nice long Labor Day weekend. We are, too! So what to do with that extra time off? If you’re short on plans, look no further than the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Here are our top 4 fun ideas for spending Labor Day weekend on this unique 444-mile historic route:
1. Get the Wind in Your Hair
The Trace is the perfect place to put the convertible top down or hit the road on your motorcycle. Unlike most highways, commercial and other development is set far away from the Trace. This means your scenery will consist of rural farms, wooded hills, friendly wildlife, and breathtaking overlooks. The Parkway is known for its stunning fall foliage, so you may be interested in planning your visit soon!
But what about logistics? While you’re out out there taking in all the scenery and fresh air, don’t let worries about fuel and such give you a bother. All along the Trace, you’ll find plenty of rest stops and gasoline to stretch your legs and stretch your trip even longer. Here’s a full list of all the convenient places to take a break starting from the southern end near Natchez, MS all of the way up to the northern limits in Nashville, TN.
2. Set up Camp
There are plenty of places to camp along the Trace! If you want to hug the Trace itself during your trip, there are three campgrounds that are within the Parkway. Just like the original travelers of the Trace, you’ll be camping primitive style (unless your “tent” is an RV). The camping spots are spread along the Natchez Trace, so you’ll always find one close and convenient to your travels.
If you’re looking for a few more amenities, that’s alright too! There are plenty of alternate campgrounds situated just off the Trace along this 444-mile scenic byway. Many of these offer those niceties like electricity, showers, and dump stations. Some are public and some are private. There are quite a few of these so if you’re interested, check out the complete updated list from the National Park Service of all campground locations and services.
3. Take a Hike
Did you know that the Natchez Trace Parkway offers nearly 100 miles of hiking? It sure does, and you can easily find over 60 miles of Natchez Trace Scenic Trail and at least 52 different hiking, horseback riding, and nature trails. Best of all, you’re literally following in the footsteps of the original Trace travelers all along the way!
4. Go Fishing
Fishing is the perfect way to relax by yourself or with family and friends. It’s a hobby for many folks living near the Trace, and many of our visitors have a lot of fun dipping their lines in hopes of catching a big one! Fry up a fresh dinner with your winnings, or throw them back for another day. Either way, it’s a treasured form of fun and relaxation.
Now that the weather is cooling down just a bit, fishing on the Trace is a great way to spend an afternoon. Fishing is allowed in lakes and streams along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Of course, fishing regulations will vary by state, so be sure to check!
Looking for more inspiration on the family fun you can have along one of America’s favorite scenic byway this Labor Day holiday? Check us out on Facebook, Twitter , Instagram and Pinterest for more fun ideas to plan your trip to the Trace. Share your experiences using the hashtag #TheNatchezTrace
Download the Natchez Trace Visitors Guide to help plan your visit:
