Donivan Slough, Milepost 283.3

Donivan Slough Trail

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Milepost 283.3 Natchez Trace Parkway

Significance:

A historic agriculture use of a natural drainage area.

Amenities

4 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Picnic Table, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

Mississippi mud is a real thing. Planters have struggled with it for centuries. This area is a natural swampy depression called a slough (pronounced slue). It is adjacent to an agricultural field and helps to drain off excess water. It appears that the construction of a deeper trough (pronounced troff, even though it looks like slough), helped drain even more water from the fields, allowing farmers to avoid stuck horses, plows, or tractors. Donivan Slough Nature Trail provides an up-close view of a functioning slough that still drains water from the soggy fields next to the trail.

The nature trail takes you on a 1600-foot easy walk through a hardwood forest. There is a stairway from the parking lot to the slough trail. Dogs on leash are allowed on the trail. Insect repellent is always advised during the warmer months. The plant life is representative of water loving flora.