Traveling the Trace with a Historical View

Spanning 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway is more than just a scenic drive—it's a journey through time.

This historic byway follows the footsteps of early explorers, Native Americans, Civil War soldiers, and pioneers who helped shape the South.

Other Important Historic Sites Near Ridgeland

  • Brashears Stand (Milepost 104.5) - Stands were inns along the trace that provided a needed stop for travelers from the late 1700s to the mid 1800s. While the structures of this stand are no longer with us, you can still enjoy a walk to an old section of the trace. Look for a new trail portion and boardwalk to connect to the nearby Bill Waller Crafts Center.
  • Boyd Site (Milepost 106.9) - Looks from the surface only hint at what lies below. In this unassuming 100-foot mound, archeologists discovered the remains of 41 burials. Differences in the pottery they found indicates that the mound was constructed over a long period of time. Additional study revealed that a house stood here around 500 A.D. and the pottery found has been dated to prior to 700 A.D.
  • Sunken Trace (Milepost 41.5) - Here the deeply eroded portion of the original trace gives you a true sense of the countless people, horses and wagons that traveled the path over the years. Each one wearing away the earth, leaving behind a sunken path with the surrounding land rising on each side.
  • French Camp Historic Village (Milepost 180.7) - Established first as a stand in 1812, then a school in 1822, the historic village offers a chance to travelers along the trace to step back in time. The village includes a pottery studio, restaurant, bed & breakfast and log cabin gift shop.

All of these sites, and many others, are easily accessible with a day trip when you stay in Ridgeland. Check out our lodging options. Learn more about these and other sites along the Natchez Trace Parkway and plan your visit.

Rules of the Road: Traveling Safely & Responsibly

Before you embark on your journey, it’s important to know the Natchez Trace Parkway rules to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:


✅ Speed Limit: Maximum 50 mph to preserve the scenic beauty and wildlife.
✅ Lighting Requirements: All vehicle and trailer lights must be operational.
✅ Litter-Free Zone: Leave No Trace—no littering allowed.
✅ No Open Containers: Alcoholic beverages in open containers are prohibited.
✅ Bicycle Safety: Motorists must maintain at least 3 feet between their vehicle and bicyclists.
✅ Cyclists' Responsibility: Bicyclists must obey all traffic laws while riding.
✅ No Commercial Vehicles: Large trucks and commercial vehicles are not allowed on the parkway.


For additional information, call 800-305-7417 or visit the official park website.

Related Content:

Natchez Trace Parkway

This National Scenic Byway spans 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee through Ridgeland. There are several ways to enjoy the historic sites along the Parkway in Ridgeland, including the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail, Old Trace & Brashears Stand, and Reservoir Overlook.

Learn More