Mon - Apr 23/12

Departed Cajun Country Campground in Port Allen, LA headed for the Natchez Trace Parkway's southern terminus in Natches, MS. We have taken the parkway previously (going south) by car. This is the first run in the RV.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile drive through exceptional scenery and 10,000 years of North American history. Used by American Indians, "Kaintucks", settlers, and future presidents, the Old Trace played an important role in American history. Today, visitors can enjoy not only a scenic drive but also hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping. There are many areas that allow access; but, be careful if you are in a motorhome towing a car. Some areas are not RV accessible.

The speed limit is general 50 mph with a few small sections and the northern end (about last 20 miles or so) at 40 mph. The traffic density is very low with a car, bicycle or motorcycle encounter about once every 2-3 miles on average except near large cities where clumps of 5 or 6 commuters use the trace as a regular route someplace. Commercial traffic is not allowed (Hooray - no 18 wheelers). The road itself is well maintained; but narrow so large RV's  (Class A's) require that you pay attention as their are no shoulders. It is like driving on the top of a levee (earth dam) which has been built above the low lying ground.

An 8-mile section of the Natchez Trace Parkway was closed to vehicular traffic due to a major safety hazard that developed near milepost 94.8 between Ridgeland, MS, and Clinton, MS. Engineers have identified the potential for collapse of the roadway due to instability in the embankment. The detour was well marked and it took less than 10 minutes to get back on the trace.

Much of the trace runs under a tree canopy that meets in the center of the road. A few areas open to lowland meadows with wild flowers just beginning to bloom. They should be out in full force in a week or two. This is a "Dream Drive"! We thoroughly enjoyed the trip which we broke into two days.

We got off the Trace as Canton, MS. Had supper at "Sizzler's" and pulled into Movietown RV Resort for the night. Many RV parks in the "Pre-Season" are open. After hours the protocol is to pull in and check at the office for posted instructions. You leave the required fee (honour system) in a deposit slot and take any available site.

Soon we were set up and watching cable TV and relaxing for the evening. Tomorrow - the rest of the Trace!