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Natchez Trace Connector Trail

Tombigbee National Forest, Mississippi · 3 min read

Distance
3.5 mi
Elevation Gain
160 ft
Difficulty
easy-moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
October through April
Est. Time
2-2.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
3 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Links Tombigbee National Forest to the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor
  • Mixed hardwood forest connecting two distinct public lands
  • Good wildlife habitat in the transition zone between the forest and the Trace
  • Historical corridor: the Natchez Trace is one of America's oldest travel routes
  • Quiet trail with low visitor traffic
wildlifehistoric site

Overview

Natchez Trace Connector Trail links Tombigbee National Forest's western trail system to the boundary of the Natchez Trace Parkway, one of America's most historically significant travel corridors. The 3.5-mile out-and-back passes through mixed hardwood forest in the transition zone between the national forest and the parkway, with good wildlife habitat and the quiet character of a trail that receives less traffic than the forest's main recreation areas.

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a separate jurisdiction administered by the National Park Service; this trail connects to it without formally being part of it. No permit is required for hiking within the national forest section.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.75: Connector to the Trace boundary. The trail departs the forest road trailhead and heads west through upland hardwood, crossing small drainages and climbing minor ridges. The vegetation transitions gradually as the trail approaches the Trace boundary, with the managed parkway corridor visible in the distance.

Return: The same route back to the forest road trailhead.

When to Hike

October through April: Most comfortable. Good wildlife viewing throughout.

Spring: The transition between the forest and the parkway corridor is interesting for migration birds.

What to Bring

Water bottle, insect repellent from April through September, offline map for navigation.

Trailhead Access

The trailhead is near the western boundary of Tombigbee National Forest adjacent to the Natchez Trace Parkway. Access from the Trace or from forest roads near the Witch Dance area.

Nearby

The Witch Dance Horse Trail is the primary multi-use trail in this western unit. The Choctaw Lake Loop offers lake recreation nearby. For context on the difference between national forests and national parks, see our national forest vs. national park guide. Review the Leave No Trace seven principles before visiting.

Before any outing in East Texas national forest terrain, review the checking conditions guide for current information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts from official USFS sources.

The America the Beautiful pass covers day-use fees at developed recreation areas throughout the national forest system. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in the veteran benefits guide.

East Texas national forests experience hot and humid conditions from May through September, with mosquito and tick activity year-round. Checking the Leave No Trace seven principles before any visit helps preserve the forest for the next visitor.

Before any outing in East Texas national forest terrain, review the checking conditions guide for current information on trail conditions, fire restrictions, and wildlife alerts from official USFS sources.

Trailhead Parking

Natchez Trace Connector trailhead near the Trace boundary. Gravel pullout. No fee.

← Back to Tombigbee National Forest

More Trails in Tombigbee National Forest

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Witch Dance Horse Trail

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Natchez Trace Parkway?
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive administered by the National Park Service, tracing the route of the historic Natchez Trace from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. The Trace was a major travel route for Native Americans, settlers, boatmen returning from New Orleans, and soldiers during the early history of the United States. The parkway runs near the western edge of Tombigbee National Forest.
Can I access the Natchez Trace Parkway from this trail?
The connector trail links the Tombigbee National Forest trail system to the boundary of the Natchez Trace Parkway. Foot access to the Natchez Trace itself is possible at the crossing point. The Trace parkway road and multiuse path (where present) can be walked from the connection point.
Is this trail maintained?
The connector trail is maintained at a basic level by the USFS. It is not as developed as the Witch Dance Horse Trail or the Davis Lake Trail. Download an offline map before visiting as blazing may be intermittent.