Natchez Trace

Last week we spent three days exploring the Mississippi portion of the Natchez Trace. The Trace is a beautifully maintained, winding, two lane drive through verdant forests, along rolling rivers, beside tranquil lakes, air heavy with the perfume of blossoming honeysuckle and magnolias, and dotted with stops for tidbits of history. We drove it during the week so there was little traffic.

There are a couple of forested campgrounds along the way that might be a squeeze for a big rig. We drove through them and chatted with some of the campers, one retired military guy who winters there from southern Ohio and hates Yankees.

At one of the historical stops, we met another retired gentleman, on a Honda touring cycle, traveling from his winter home in AZ to his summer home in upstate NY. He and his wife previously traveled as work campers but gave it up to buy two permanent spots, one near the grandkids in NY.

Along the Trace are historical markers, ancient Indian mounds, and one restored house that was also a lodging stop for travelers making their way north.

There are a number of short interpretive trails to view existing portions of the Old Trace, learn about Native Indian customs, and experience lush cypress swamps.