Seven Things You Must See on The Natchez Trace Parkway
Stretching 444 miles through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway is more than a scenic drive; it’s a journey through centuries of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a full road trip or a quick day excursion, these seven must-see stops capture the essence of the Trace and highlight why it continues to be one of America’s most beloved parkways.
1) Emerald Mound – Mississippi
One of the largest ceremonial mounds in North America, Emerald Mound is a breathtaking reminder of the Mississippian culture that thrived here centuries before European contact. Standing atop the grassy plateau, you feel the scale of a civilization that shaped the region long before the Parkway existed. It’s peaceful, humbling and a perfect first stop for grounding your journey in the Trace’s deep history.
2) Tishomingo Swinging Bridge – Mississippi
Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Tishomingo State Park in northeast Mississippi lies a charming landmark: the swinging bridge. This suspension bridge gently sways above the rocky bed of Bear Creek, offering visitors a unique and memorable way to traverse its flowing waters. More than just a functional crossing, the swinging bridge serves as a beloved icon of the park, inviting adventurers of all ages to embrace a touch of old-fashioned fun and connect with the natural splendor of this Mississippi treasure.
3) Jackson Falls and Baker Bluff Overlook – Tennessee
A stop where you can get double the views! Starting at Jackson Falls, a steep hill takes you to the perfect spot to view the base of the beautiful waterfalls. This is 1 of 2 waterfalls that can be seen when following the parkway, so don’t miss your opportunity to visit! A short half-mile will take you to milepost 405.1, Baker Bluff Overlook. Here, take in the scenic views of the farmland filled with barns, crops and grazing animals. Take advantage of both of these scenic beauties on your next trip!
4) Bynum Mounds – Mississippi
Bynum Mounds is the oldest mound site along the Natchez Trace Parkway — a place where more than 2,000 years of history rise gently from the earth. Built by American Indians during the Middle Woodland Period (100 BCE–100 CE), these mounds once served as ceremonial and cultural centers connected to a vast southeastern trade network. Today, descendants of the mound builders, including the Chickasaw, continue to return to this sacred homeland. Walk the accessible 200‑foot loop to experience the mounds, the forest edge and the stories that still live here.
5) Tennessee Valley Divide – Alabama
Standing at the Tennessee Valley Divide, you’re on a historic ridgeline where water, land, and history part ways. Streams flowing south head toward the Duck and Tennessee Rivers, while those to the north reach the Cumberland, marking what was once the edge of the American frontier and the 1796 boundary between Tennessee and the Chickasaw Nation. Today, hikers at the Highland Rim Section Trailhead are rewarded with scenic Parkway views, spring wildflowers, and vibrant fall color along this storied stretch of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
6) Meriwether Lewis Site – Tennessee
Visit The Meriwether Lewis Site to learn more about the mysterious death of Meriwether Lewis at this historical milepost. A monument stands to mark the burial ground for Meriwether, honoring his memory and accomplishments. The Meriwether Lewis Site offers a campground for visitors to stay at while they explore the 300-acre park. This must-see site combines history and adventure, making it a great stop when traveling along the parkway.
7) Colbert Ferry – Alabama
Colbert Ferry was a key crossing along the Natchez Trace, operated by George Colbert, a Chickasaw leader of Scottish and Chickasaw descent who used his bilingual skills to support travelers with food, lodging, and passage across the Tennessee River from 1800 to 1819. The site reflects both the enterprise and the complex history of the era, including a nearby plantation worked by enslaved African Americans. Today, visitors can walk to the ridge where Colbert’s home once stood or follow the Old Trace to a scenic bluff overlooking the river.
Start Planning Your Trace Adventure
No two trips on the Natchez Trace Parkway are ever the same. With hundreds of miles of history, nature, and culture woven together, these lesser-known stops invite travelers to slow down, explore deeper, and experience the Trace beyond the obvious highlights.
