April 2022

Discover Alabama’s scenic portion of this popular three-state, 444-mile designated National Scenic Byway and All-American Road

BY LAURA MCGILL

Whether you are traveling the Natchez Trace Parkway by bike, car, motorcycle or RV, you are on the road to a history-packed, nature-filled adventure. The parkway, which roughly follows the historic Natchez Trace between Franklin, Tennessee, and Natchez, Mississippi, has been under the care of the National Park Service since 1938, but the stories it shares date back more than 10,000 years.

The trace long served as a vital travel path for Native Americans, European settlers, slave traders, soldiers and many others, both nameless and famous (Meriwether Lewis, John James Audubon and Ulysses S. Grant, for example), who used the corridor first for following game and later for commerce. As the number of travelers increased, inns, or stands, popped up to provide places to rest and to eat. The comforts were few, and the way often was fraught with danger due to bandits and highwaymen.

Traveling the modern parkway’s 33 miles in Alabama, with a 50 mile-per-hour speed limit for most of the route and pretty views, provides an opportunity to imagine all those souls who journeyed here before you and to contemplate the beauty of Alabama’s northwest corner. Plan to stop at six sites to enjoy small natural springs and a mighty river, simple pathways and steep climbs. 

Bear Creek, Milepost 313.0:

Just four miles in from the Mississippi line, you can pause for a break. The area features picnic tables and grills. Access to the water may be steep for some visitors, but just in case it’s perfect for you, bring your fishing gear to see what’s biting in the creek.

Freedom Hills Overlook, Milepost 317.0:

Test your stamina on the steep, quarter-mile trail that leads to the overlook, and to Alabama’s highest point on the parkway. Views are better in late autumn and winter when the leaves have fallen.

Buzzard Roost Spring, Milepost 320.3: 

The spring at Buzzard Roost once served as the water source for an inn along the original trace. Today, a small interpretive site lends context to the former operation, and a short walk from the parkway rewards travelers with the soothing sounds of the spring

Colbert Ferry, Milepost 327.3:

From 1800 to 1819, this spot on the Tennessee River was where Chickasaw George Colbert operated a ferry. His nearby inn was a popular stop for travelers seeking rest and a warm meal. Today’s visitors can launch a boat, fish or simply enjoy river views here while having lunch at one of the picnic tables. Restrooms are also available. Take the 50-yard walk from the parking area to see the spot where the inn once stood. 

Lauderdale, Milepost 328.7:

The previous stop of Colbert Ferry lies on the southern shore of the Tennessee River. Cross the river and take in the view from the northern shore. A small picnic area is available.

Rock Spring, Milepost 330.2:

The namesake natural spring often features deep pools that serve as homes to small fish. A nearby trail and stepping stones take you across Colbert Creek and into a wooded area. If you visit this stop in the spring and fall, you may be sharing the space with hundreds of Ruby-throated hummingbirds as they seek the nectar of area wildflowers. 


Insider Tip: 

Posted speed limits are strictly enforced. Please be aware of road conditions, especially in the winter months. Be prepared to share the road with cyclists as this is a popular route for them.

 
Visit nps.gov/natr to learn more about the entire length of the Natchez Trace and the Natchez Trace Parkway.