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!

Any plans to do a tour report with photos? Would live to see it.

Sorry to take so long getting back--Im putting together a report with all info and pictures. My bike towed a bob with about 60 pounds of gear (winter weather gear) and I had 2 bags up front which held tent, food and cook gear. Will post again as quik as possible.

i'm interested in doing this trek as well. Can't wait to see your pictures.

Heres a quik pic of me and the rig at Tishamingo state park. This was one of the few good days, i.e. sun is out. It was about 45 degrees so thats why I look so big (lots of layering). It looks like a heavy load but most of the stuff is clothes and sleeping bags (yes, 2 bags). The heavy part is my spare parts bag on the rear rack--it weighs over 20 pounds. Good to say I didnt break anything, but being a firm beleiver in Murphies law, I carry extra anything that could break. More to come!