Bicycling the Parkway

Closures for Paving

Nearly $40 million rehabilitation is underway. The project consists of complete rehabilitation of the main line motor-road, mill & overlay of ramps and pull-off areas. Sections of the roadway and possibly camping areas will be closed while being reworked. Fines for entering the closed areas are up to $5000. Please see our Alerts for current closed areas and detour directions.

 

Safety is Your Priority - Ride Safe to Ride Home

Planning for a great trip includes knowing the environment before you get there. Check out the information below to have a great ride.

The Parkway was designed in the 1930s for motor vehicles. The designation as a Bicycle Route came afterwards. The lanes are substandard at 11' wide. The speed limit is 50 mph in most places and in some areas, traffic is heavy during rush hour. Aesthetic curves and heavily forested areas add to the beauty of the Parkway. It is your job to keep safe!

 

Top 3 to Know

• Make yourself visible. Millions of visitors travel the Parkway each year, many more in vehicles than bicycles. Use of high-visibility clothing and bicycle lights greatly increases bicyclist visibility. Bicycle regulations and safety guidelines
• Water is limited. Most restrooms have potable water, but there can be long stretches that do not have water available. Please plan ahead for filling up. It is recommended that you carry a water filter.
• Cell phone service is not always available.
  • Carry a first aid kit and a bicycle repair kit.
  • In emergency situations, call 911 when in cell covered areas. Report all incidents involving cyclists to the Natchez Trace Parkway at 1.800.300.7275.

Quick Links

• Extended Parking Form PDF Download
• Extended Parking Form DOCX Download
• Best locations to leave your vehicle

External Planning Sites

• Natchez Trace Cycling is dedicated to bicycling the Parkway safely. Visit their site to get great information about how to Be Safe and Be Seen.
• Natchez Trace Travel Bicycling page is dedicated to assisting bicyclists to have the best bicycling experience.

 

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  Planning for Success

  Don't Forget to Consider

  Planning on dropping off a car? What about elevation?

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  Guidelines for Bicyclists

  What You Need to Know

  Guidelines are for your safety and success.

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  Are You Camping?

  Designated Bicycle & Other Campgrounds

  A listing of campgrounds that are designated for bicyclists.

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  Need Help?

  Bicycle Services Along the Parkway

  Shops that cater to bicyclists, if you need help

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  Got a Group?

  You Need a Permit

  All commercial bicycle tours, AND private groups of 8 or more, must apply for a permit.

 

More Bicycling Information

To receive a Bicycle Information Packet:

• Email us Please note that mail will be sent out once a week.
• Or call 662-680-4027.

For other questions regarding bicycling the Natchez Trace Parkway call the Parkway Visitor Center at (800)-305-7417.