| GiantDave |
04-01-05 01:49 PM |
Natchez trace trip
I just completed a tour of the natchez from Nashville to Natchez and actually rodebackup. Weather was lousy - lots of rain, sleet and snow, bitter cold, but fun non-the -less. I did it on a rebuilt goodwill bike ($20.00) and about $150 in parts (BB, Bearings, etc.) The bike is a '94 Schwinn Moab 3. Beat-up looking but very functional and comfortable. Now for anyone who wants to do the natchez be warned. There were very few places to get supplies. I had to travel well off course to get to a small store. On the up side, plenty of places to camp. I got caught in rain and snow storms and the park rangers were very kind and helpfull in letting me put my tent up in restricted areas.
I probably would have had more fun in warmer weather, but due to time constraints, had to do it in March. Its beautiful country and you wont lack for privacy. I only saw 3 other bikers the whole trip. There are no commercial vehicles allowed and traffic was very lite. So if anyone is thinking of touring on a bike but doesnt want to commit to a long haul across the USA, please try the Trace. Its just long enough and you dont need a big bank roll to do it. Total cost for me including bike and parts was less than $500.00 for the trip both ways.
Oh, and if you start at the Nashville end, make sure you take a side trip to Fly's store. Mr. Fly has a well stocked store and cheap prices. He will also talk your ear off about all the bike riders that come thru the area. If needed, he'll let you camp out in back of his store for the nite. Nice guy!
Now I've got to plan my next adventure (on the same bike). Thinking about going up Tenn 11w to New York. Have fun!
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