Nashville to New Orleans via Natchez Trace Parkway
Oct 18, 2024
Tags:tennesseeguidelatraveltntipsnashville-tnlouisiananew-orleans-la
So, you're looking to make the trip from Nashville to New Orleans, which means you'll be covering about 540 miles, with 444 of those being along the Natchez Trace Parkway. This route is a favorite for riders, thanks to its smooth roads, easy pace, and endless amount of interesting stops. Whether it's historic sites, scenic overlooks, or just a good spot to take a break, there’s something for everyone on this stretch.
In this blog, we’ll go over what to expect on the Natchez Trace, highlight must-see stops, and share some helpful tips to make the most out of your ride.
What You Need to Know Before Riding the Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the oldest routes in North America, stretching 444 miles from Nashville, Tennessee, to Natchez, Mississippi. It’s managed by the National Park Service and follows a path used by Native Americans and early settlers. Today, the Parkway is known for its smooth, uninterrupted roads with plenty of spots to stop and explore. Riding the Natchez Trace Pkwy means coming up on over 50 access points, making it easy to jump on and off if you want to change up your route or take a break.
Best Time of Year to Ride the Natchez Trace Parkway
You can ride the Natchez Trace Parkway year-round, but spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the most popular times. Now, the word popular might scare some of you off, but this doesn’t mean it gets overly crowded. The temperature around this time just happens to be the most comfortable, which allows riders to enjoy the Parkway more.
How Much Does it Cost to Ride the Natchez Trace Parkway?
There’s no cost to ride the Natchez Trace Parkway. It’s completely free, with no tolls or permits required. This makes it a budget-friendly option for anyone looking to enjoy a long-distance ride. Just fuel up, and you’re good to go!
Natchez Trace Parkway Speed Limit and Road Conditions
The speed limit on most of the Natchez Trace Parkway is 50 mph. In some areas, like around towns and historical spots, it drops to 40 mph. The road is well-maintained and smooth, but keep an eye out for wildlife and fallen leaves, especially in the fall, and always take a look at the National Park Service’s Current Conditions page so you’re aware of any closures before your trip.
Since commercial vehicles aren’t allowed, the Parkway is usually less crowded, which helps in having some peace of mind on the road!
Facilities Along the Parkway
Riders will find plenty of spots to stop and take a break, with restroom facilities available about every thirty miles to help with planning your rest stops. And, contrary to what some might think, gas stations, markets, and restaurants are close by, so you won’t have to worry about running out of fuel or supplies.
Overnight Stops
Planning an overnight stay in places like Tupelo or Jackson is a great way to break up the ride and get a real feel for the local culture. Both towns have plenty of options for lodging, so you can park your bike, get some rest, and recharge for the next leg of the trip. Taking an overnight break is the best way to experience this journey because there’s just so much to see and do along the way. Plus, 540 miles is a lot for one stretch, and even the most experienced riders need a chance to rest. By slowing down and staying the night, you’ll be able to take in more of what the Natchez Trace and its surrounding areas have to offer.
Visit Natchez Trace Travel for more lodging information.
What You’ll See on this Natchez Trace Parkway Motorcycle Ride
Riding the Natchez Trace Parkway from Nashville to New Orleans offers a lot to see, with each section of the route bringing something different to the table. From historic landmarks to natural spots, there’s plenty to explore. Here’s a rundown of key locations you’ll come across as you make your way south.
Starting Point: Nashville, Tennessee
Before hitting the Parkway, Nashville is a great spot to explore. Known as Music City, Nashville offers plenty of live music, classic Southern food, and a bustling downtown scene. It's worth spending a bit of time here to soak in the culture before setting off on your ride. If you have some extra time, here are a few places you might want to check out:
Leipers Fork, Tennessee
Just about 30 minutes from Nashville, Leipers Fork is a small village that gives you a taste of Tennessee’s countryside. Riders love this spot because it's got a laid-back vibe, with a few local shops, art galleries, and a couple of places to grab a bite. It's an easy spot to park the bike and stretch your legs for a bit. While you’re there, consider checking out these local spots:
Meriwether Lewis Park, Tennessee
A little farther down the Parkway, you'll come across Meriwether Lewis Park. This is the burial site of the famous explorer from the Lewis and Clark expedition. Riders often stop here to explore the small museum and check out the monuments. It’s a quiet place with walking trails, and it gives you a break from the road if you’re looking to take in some history. If you’re planning a longer stop, here are a few things to see in the area:
Tupelo, Mississippi
Tupelo is a good midway point and an ideal spot for an overnight stop. Known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo has a visitor center and the Elvis Presley Birthplace Museum for those interested in a bit of rock 'n roll history. There are also several local restaurants and shops around town. For riders, Tupelo offers plenty of fuel stations, places to eat, and comfortable lodging options, making it a great place to rest and recharge for the next part of your trip. Here are a few places to check out while you’re in Tupelo:
Want a Local to Show You Part of the Trace?
The Natchez Trace Parkway is one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in the country, with 444 miles of smooth roads and historic stops along the way. Riders Share offers guided motorcycle tours across the country, including in regions along this route. If you'd rather follow someone who knows the best overlooks, the hidden stops, and the timing to avoid crowds, a guided tour is a great way to experience part of the Trace with a local who's done it before.
Jackson, Mississippi
As you continue south, Jackson is another city with lots to see. It's the state capital, so there are plenty of historic sites and museums, like the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the State Capitol building. Riders often use Jackson as another possible overnight stop since it has a good mix of hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. It’s also a nice place to explore if you want to explore the area’s history and culture for a bit. If you plan to stop here, these spots are worth visiting:
Natchez, Mississippi
Natchez marks the end of the Parkway and is filled with history and charm. Known for its antebellum homes and views of the Mississippi River, Natchez is a popular spot for riders to explore before heading to New Orleans. Take some time to ride around the city streets, visit a historic mansion, or just enjoy the riverfront. If you’re looking for things to do in Natchez, here are some spots to consider:
The Final Stretch: Natchez to New Orleans
Once you leave Natchez, you’ve got about 150 miles left to reach New Orleans. This part of the ride takes you along a mix of highways and local roads, offering a change of scenery from the Parkway. As you get closer to New Orleans, you’ll pass through small towns and see the landscape change to the bayou country that Louisiana is known for. Planning out your final route will make this last leg more enjoyable, especially if you want to avoid busy downtown areas.
End Point: New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is the finish line of your journey, and it’s a city that has something for everyone. From the music on Bourbon Street to the incredible food and unique neighborhoods, there’s plenty to explore here. Riders love the energy of the city and the mix of cultures that make New Orleans so special. Park your bike and take some time to enjoy the local spots. Here are a few must-see places to wrap up your ride:
Ride from Nashville to New Orleans with Motorcycle Rentals from Riders Share
Ready to take on the ride from Nashville to New Orleans? With our peer-to-peer motorcycle rental service, you can easily find the perfect bike for your trip. You can get a Nashville motorcycle rental to kick off your adventure along the Natchez Trace Parkway. Or, if you’re starting in Louisiana, grab a New Orleans motorcycle rental to head north. With our wide selection of bikes and flexible options, we make it easy to hit the road and enjoy the ride.
Bottom Line
The ride from Nashville to New Orleans is long, which makes the fact that it’s packed with history, culture, and plenty of sights even better. This route offers something for everyone, from peaceful roads to interesting stops that make the journey just as memorable as the destination. Take your time, plan your breaks, and enjoy every mile of this road trip.
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