Date Visited: 4/5/2019
The Old Trace Drive was one of points of interest along the trail that I was really looking forward to experiencing.
The drive is a 2.5 mile one way from south to north starting at MP 375.8. Only about 1.5 miles of the drive are on the actual old trace.
At the starting point a kiosk houses a map of the drive along with three other informational posters telling about the origins of the trace, the different types of travelers, and the hazards as recorded by a few of the travelers.
The drive itself is a beautiful little drive with overhanging trees, sharp turns, and a few scenic overlooks. Unfortunately due to the nature of the roadway, large vehicles (RV’s) and travel-trailers are not permitted.
Also at the kiosk, we learned that the trace follows along the ridges and avoids valleys whenever possible for many reasons.
- To reduce the number of stream crossings
- To provide a greater sight distance
- The ridge is dryer during wet weather
- Ridgelines are easier to clear
What a difference traveling along the Natchez Trace is today compared to its humble beginnings. From the comfort of our cars we are no longer impacted as severely by bad weather, swamps, swollen streams, and any number of disease carrying insects and poisonous snakes and spiders. Let us not forget about the two legged dangers like robbers and organized groups of highwaymen. In fact, some of the earliest instances of organized crime in U.S. can be tied to the trace.
Fortunately for us, there would be no treachery afoot on this day. In fact, the most dangerous obstacle we faced was crossing the wooden bridge below.
Now I’m not a big fan of wooden bridges. This one didn’t seem to be as sketchy as others we have crossed in our travels so for once I stayed in the vehicle instead of getting out and walking across while my brave husband drives our 2 ton vehicle across. I’m happy to report that the bridge was solid. However, gravel from the road does make its way onto the bridge, so if you are on a motorcycle be cautious when crossing and obey the posted speed limit.
Join us next week when we visit an abandoned ore mine.
Until then…
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