Sections of Natchez Trace Parkway to close ahead of winter storms

Published 10:10 am Sunday, January 14, 2024

TUPELO, Miss. – The National Park Service will close Natchez Trace Parkway south of Nashville, between milepost 429 and 442 at approximately 7 p.m. today (Sun., Jan. 14). Parkway Visitor Center in Tupelo, Miss. will close at noon today. Additional sections of the parkway may close during the storms.

Motorist are advised to avoid traveling Natchez Trace Parkway and to use alternate routes if travel is required during winter storms. The entire Natchez Trace Parkway may be impacted as winter weather settles into the region. Motorists should be aware that:

• Natchez Trace Parkway does not plow or use any chemicals or sand on the roadway.
• The parkway stays icy longer than many other routes due to the many trees that line the road and reduce direct sunlight on the road.
• Trees often fall during and immediately after storms, especially when ice is present.
• Additional road closures may be put into place if road conditions are deemed unsafe.

“Safety is our main concern at Natchez Trace Parkway. We want to ensure visitors are aware of the potential risks and know to avoid the parkway during winter weather events,” said Chief Ranger Prashant Lotwala. “If motorists get stuck or are involved in a crash, the response time may be many hours, especially when active rain, sleet, or snow is accumulating.”

 Motorist should be prepared to sustain themselves for up to 12 hours in extreme winter weather. Be sure to carry an emergency kit with shelter, blankets, food, and water. Check your local radio and television stations for the most current weather conditions. Keep up to date with Natchez Trace Parkway closures and conditions via www.nps.gov/natr or on Facebook, Instagram,  and Twitter. Dial 911 or Park Dispatch at (800) 300-PARK(7275) in the event of an emergency on the parkway.  “Drive safe, the park way!”