Natchez Trace Parkway

We recently did the Natchez Trace Parkway. (3 couples). I really liked the ride but the other 2 couples just want to plow through and my wife and I want to stop and explore. The only downfall of this ride in my opinion was that the speed limit is 55mph. There are park rangers along the route that WILL enforce the speed limit. The only highlights while riding were coming upon traffic and then when you get a place to pass we could ramp it up. After 200 miles we ended up in Tupelo. I’m glad we rode what we did but if you’re a crotch rocket, don’t think you’re going to get on here and rip it up,,, it’s not about that. All in all its worth the trip. Its checked off my bucket list.

This parkway, particularly the northern end, has turned into one of my favorite places to ride in the fall. Early November is an ideal time to catch the leaves at peak color and the weather is just right. Visit Loveless Cafe at the northern terminus and stop in Leipers Fork just a few miles down the road. There you will find three cool places for food or music: Fox & Locke, Big Bad Breakfast at Country Boy, and The Davis General a few miles down the road in Boston. Meriwether Lewis’ burial site near Hohenwald is a good stop for history buffs and French Camp, MS is a good stop for history and food at the Council House. The road surface is near perfect with little traffic except maybe around Tupelo and Jackson, MS.

Tip: Plan your trip well there are no gas stations on the trace it self you will haft to deviate off to get gas and food.