Natchez Trace Parkway stretches across three states, from Natchez to Nashville. The 444 mile scenic byway traces an age old route, traveled by Native Americans and placed on a French map in 1733. Ohio River Valley farmers headed to the deep south searching for new markets for their crops and products. It became a one-way trip and left their flatboats behind, returning home by way of the Natchez Trace trail. The popular route turn the trail in a road and became the most traveled in the south, with many inns (stands) operating along the route. By 1820 more than 20 stands operated Natchez Trace, proving food and shelter.
Times quickly changed in America with advancements of steam power. Steamboats provided a quick and safe trip from New Orleans to St Louis, Nashville and Louisville. The Natchez Trace lost its travelers and prosperity along the route faded. Today, the parkway follows the old trail and provides travelers a leisurely drive, sprinkled with hiking trails, historic exhibits, picnic areas, campgrounds and over a hundred points of interest.