Mississippi Highways and Byways
Natchez Trace Parkway, Mississippi
As historic and scenic byways go, there is none more splendid than Mississippi's stretch of the Natchez Trace Parkway. Built along an ancient trail from Natchez to Nashville, the Natchez Trace Parkway has become a federally protected park that is not only a historic landmark, but also a beautiful winding road that weaves its way through the heart of the state.
The current 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway runs along the approximate path of the Old Trace, with the Natchez Trace Scenic Trail close in tow. With historical markers and Native American mounds, beautiful vistas and sections overlooking large bodies of water, the Natchez Trace offers breathtaking drive for anyone who's in no hurry at all! But what better way to take in all the sights. Visit during autumn and see the bursting colours in full autumn bloom.
Cycling in Mississippi
Recently cycling has become one of Mississippi’s fastest-growing outdoor activities. From swift and steep single track routes in dense hardwood forests, to high mileage rail trails that run through scenic small towns, Mississippi has a wide assortment of biking trails across the state. More popular rides include the Natchez Trace Parkway, which zigzags the state for 300-miles. Another popular trail is the Longleaf Trace, a 41-mile journey that is one of the nation’s first rails-to-trails projects. The Tanglefoot Trail, Mississippi’s longest rails-to-trails conversion, stretches 43.6 miles through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, while the 200-year-old Mississippi River Trail (MRT) leads you 3,000-miles through 10 states, but our section follows the Mississippi from Memphis to New Orleans. Mountain biking continues to grow in Mississippi and numerous trails can be found in state parks and the national forests. For the latest events and information related to biking in Mississippi, visit the Bike Walk Mississippi site.
Grand Gulf-Raymond Scenic Byway, Mississippi
The Grand Gulf-Raymond Scenic Byway is another great trip for any motorist looking to take the road less travelled. This wonderful drive through towering trees partly follows in the footsteps of Ulysses. Grant's Vicksburg campaign.
The Great River Road, Mississippi
This scenic byway follows the Mississippi River along Mississippi's western state line. With sweeping views and stunning sunsets this byway is just one of many ways to take your time and enjoy the natural beauty that is Mississippi, both river and state.
US 45, East Mississippi
One of the best routes for exploring the eastern region of the state is US 45, which rolls in across the northern border and runs south for more than 200 miles before it exits Mississippi at the appropriately named town of State Line. Along the way it flows over roller coaster hills and passed neatly kept homes, hardwoods that flame in fall, pine forests and pockets of kudzu.
These are just a few of the scenic drives you'll find in Mississippi so plan your trip today for a ride through tall pines, flat farmland and more.
Email mississippi@deep-south-usa.com for further information on any of the above.
