Rock Springs Nature Trail: A Natural Oasis on the Natchez Trace
Explore a natural spring, diverse wildlife, and tranquil trails at Rock Springs Nature Trail on Alabama's Natchez Trace Parkway.
Discover a serene escape at Rock Springs Nature Trail in Florence, Alabama. This scenic state park, located on the Natchez Trace Parkway, offers a short, accessible loop trail through woodlands, across Colbert Creek, and past a natural spring. It's a haven for birdwatching, especially for spotting hummingbirds, and a peaceful retreat into nature.
A brief summary to Rock Springs Nature Trail
- Rock Spring, Florence, Alabama, 35633, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit in the fall to witness the spectacle of migrating Ruby-throated Hummingbirds feeding on jewelweed.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the short, easy hike, and consider dangling your feet in the cool waters of Rock Spring.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and keep an eye out for beaver dams along Colbert Creek.
Getting There
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Driving
Rock Springs Nature Trail is located directly off the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 330.2. From Florence, Alabama, take US-72 East to the Natchez Trace Parkway, then head north. The parking area for Rock Springs Nature Trail will be on the right. Parking is free and readily available. There are no tolls on the Natchez Trace Parkway.
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Walking
If you are already on the Natchez Trace Parkway, simply follow the trail to milepost 330.2. The entrance to Rock Springs Nature Trail is clearly marked and easily accessible from the parkway. The trail is a short loop, approximately 20 minutes in length.
Discover more about Rock Springs Nature Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wilson's Headquarters & Camp Historical Marker
3.1 km
Commemorating the site where General Wilson amassed the largest cavalry force in the Western Hemisphere, impacting the Civil War's final stages.
Waterloo, AL Historical Marker
15.4 km
Explore Waterloo, AL: Where river history meets the poignant Trail of Tears, offering reflection and natural beauty.
Alabama-Tennessee State Line Sign
18.1 km
Explore the Alabama-Tennessee State Line Sign, a historical landmark showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the southern United States.
Old Riverton Rail Spur
18.6 km
Step back in time at the Old Riverton Rail Spur, a preserved historical landmark offering a peaceful glimpse into Alabama's railway past.
Old Water Tower
20.0 km
Explore the Old Water Tower in Florence, AL - a historic landmark surrounded by serene parkland perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Freedom Hills Overlook
20.4 km
Hike to the highest point on Alabama's Natchez Trace Parkway for stunning scenic views and a breath of fresh air.
Tuscumbia Landing
20.6 km
Explore the historical charm of Tuscumbia Landing in Sheffield, Alabama, where scenic beauty meets rich cultural heritage along the Tennessee River.
Old Stone Bridge
21.1 km
Discover the timeless charm of Sheffield's Old Stone Bridge, a picturesque landmark offering history and scenic beauty in a tranquil setting.
College Place Historic District
21.1 km
Explore the serene and picturesque College Place Historic District in Florence, Alabama, a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty.
Sheffield Standpipe
21.2 km
Explore the Sheffield Standpipe, a historic landmark that showcases Alabama's engineering heritage and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Wood Avenue Historic District
21.5 km
Explore the Wood Avenue Historic District, a stunning neighborhood in Florence, Alabama, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Locust Street Historic District
21.5 km
Discover the rich history and charming architecture of Locust Street Historic District in Florence, Alabama, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
Sannoner Historic District
21.6 km
Explore Florence's past in the Sannoner Historic District, where stunning architecture and rich history come together on tree-lined streets.
Pope's Tavern Museum
21.7 km
Explore the captivating history of Florence, Alabama at Pope's Tavern Museum, where past and present come alive through engaging exhibits.
Sheffield Downtown Commercial Historic District
21.7 km
Explore Sheffield, Alabama's historic heart: A captivating blend of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture and commercial heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall
12.5 km
Explore the Wichahpi Commemorative Stone Wall in Florence, Alabama, a historical site celebrating Native American culture and heritage in a serene setting.
Pickwick Lake
14.0 km
Discover Pickwick Lake: A scenic tri-state destination for boating, fishing, outdoor adventures, and historical exploration on the Tennessee River.
Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge
15.8 km
Discover Alabama's natural beauty at Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for endangered species and unique cave ecosystems.
Forks of Cypress
16.5 km
Discover the haunting beauty and historical significance of the Forks of Cypress, a former cotton plantation in Florence, Alabama.
Chalk mine hollow
19.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chalk Mine Hollow, a hidden hiking paradise in Iuka, Mississippi, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature exploration.
W C Handy Museum
21.3 km
Explore the life and music of the 'Father of the Blues' at his birthplace museum in Florence, Alabama.
Frank Lloyd Wright - Rosenbaum House Museum
21.8 km
Discover Frank Lloyd Wright's Usonian masterpiece in Florence, Alabama: a unique architectural experience open for public tours.
Kennedy - Douglass Center For The Arts
21.8 km
Explore art and history in three beautiful, historic homes at the Kennedy-Douglass Center for the Arts in Florence, Alabama.
McFarland Park
22.4 km
Discover scenic beauty & recreation at McFarland Park in Florence, AL – a historic riverside destination with events, camping, & family fun!
Helen Keller Birthplace
22.6 km
Explore the birthplace of Helen Keller, a National Historic Landmark in Tuscumbia, Alabama, and discover the inspiring story of her life and achievements.
Tennessee Valley Museum of Art
22.6 km
Discover diverse art exhibitions, prehistoric artifacts, and community programs at the Tennessee Valley Museum of Art in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
Florence Indian Mound and Museum
22.7 km
Explore ancient Native American history and culture at the Florence Indian Mound, the Tennessee Valley's largest earthen mound and museum.
Old Railroad Bridge
23.2 km
Walk across history on Alabama's oldest bridge site, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape on the Tennessee River.
Tuscumbia Spring Park
23.3 km
Discover natural beauty and historical charm at Tuscumbia Spring Park, home to Coldwater Falls and family-friendly fun in downtown Tuscumbia.
Coldwater Stagecoach Stop
23.4 km
Experience Alabama's frontier history at the Coldwater Stagecoach Stop, a preserved 19th-century cabin in Tuscumbia.
Essential places to dine
Inez's Drive Inn
36.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Inez's Drive Inn in Tishomingo - where every meal feels like home.
Viva La Casita
39.0 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Viva La Casita in Tishomingo - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant
39.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico at Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Tishomingo – where every meal is a fiesta!
Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings
82.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Smokey C's Bar-B-Que & Wings in Decatur, AL – where flavor meets hospitality.
Hardins Country Store & Restaurant
85.3 km
Experience authentic Southern hospitality with delicious pizzas at Hardins Country Store & Restaurant in Tupelo.
Logan's Roadhouse
85.6 km
Experience hearty American cuisine at Logan's Roadhouse in Decatur – where every meal feels like home!
Scruggs BBQ
86.5 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Scruggs BBQ in Decatur - where flavor meets tradition.
Applebee's Grill + Bar
86.6 km
Experience American cuisine at its best at Applebee's Grill + Bar in Decatur - where flavor meets family-friendly fun!
Southern Style Barbeque
86.8 km
Experience authentic Southern barbeque at its finest in Decatur; savor smoky flavors and hearty dishes made with love.
Nash Barbeque
87.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of Southern barbecue at Nash Barbeque in Decatur, Alabama – where every bite tells a story.
Chick-fil-A
87.3 km
Savor the flavors of Southern hospitality at Chick-fil-A in Decatur - where every meal is made with care.
Serrano's Mexican
87.8 km
Discover the rich flavors of Mexico at Serrano's Mexican in Decatur – where every meal is a fiesta!
L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina
88.1 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at L Patron Mexican Grill and Cantina in Decatur – where every meal is a festive celebration of flavor!
Bank Street Grill
88.4 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Bank Street Grill in Decatur, AL - where flavor meets hospitality.
Simp McGhee's
88.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Cajun cuisine at Simp McGhee's in Decatur - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Eclectic
22.2 km
Explore The Eclectic in Florence, Alabama: your go-to boutique for unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delightful finds that capture local charm.
the homestead MERCANTILE
23.0 km
Explore The Homestead Mercantile in Florence, AL for unique gifts, local crafts, and a taste of Southern charm in every corner.
Basse Trading Company
23.2 km
Explore Basse Trading Company in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where every antique tells a story and treasures await around every corner.
The Back 40 Boutique
24.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at The Back 40 Boutique in Muscle Shoals, Alabama – a treasure trove of Southern charm and creativity.
Boutique 72
25.0 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Boutique 72 in Tuscumbia, Alabama, where local artistry meets unique fashion finds.
Books-A-Million
25.3 km
Discover a world of books, collectibles, and unique gifts at Books-A-Million in Florence, Alabama, where every visit is an adventure in reading.
O'Claire's Boutique & Gift Shop
26.6 km
Explore O'Claire's Boutique & Gift Shop in Iuka, Mississippi for unique gifts, local crafts, and stylish apparel that encapsulate Southern charm.
Vintage South Marketplace
27.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, boutique finds, and sports memorabilia at Vintage South Marketplace in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Hodge Antique’s
27.4 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures at Hodge Antique’s in Iuka, Mississippi, where history and nostalgia come together.
Just a Kind Word Florist
27.7 km
Discover the beauty of fresh flowers and unique arrangements at Just a Kind Word Florist in Iuka, Mississippi.
Dollar Tree
27.8 km
Discover unbeatable prices and variety at Dollar Tree in Iuka, your go-to destination for budget-friendly shopping.
The TP Boutique
27.9 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at The TP Boutique in Iuka, Mississippi, where local charm meets exceptional customer service.
Walmart
27.9 km
Explore Walmart Iuka: A comprehensive shopping hub with groceries, clothing, electronics, and home goods, all at budget-friendly prices.
Chalk It Shop
28.0 km
Explore your artistic side at Chalk It Shop in Iuka, MS, where a world of vibrant paints and creative supplies awaits every art enthusiast.
Crowes Florist
35.5 km
Discover the charm of Crowes Florist in Tishomingo, where beautiful flowers meet exceptional service for every occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rattlesnake Saloon
23.3 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Rattlesnake Saloon, where delicious hamburgers meet a lively bar atmosphere in the heart of Alabama.
Table 127
26.4 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Table 127 in Iuka, MS, where every meal is a delicious journey into local flavors.
Cream & Sugar Cafe
26.5 km
Discover the charm of Cream & Sugar Cafe in Iuka, MS—where delightful flavors and cozy ambiance meet southern hospitality.
Front Street Snack Bar
26.6 km
Savor delicious snacks at Front Street Snack Bar, Iuka's cozy eatery with a delightful Southern charm and affordable prices.
Chuckwagon Cafe
27.1 km
Discover the flavors of the South at Chuckwagon Cafe, a charming spot in Iuka, Mississippi, serving delicious comfort food with a warm welcome.
Bian Garden
27.3 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bian Garden in Iuka, MS – a culinary gem offering a diverse menu and warm hospitality.
Stell's Sports Grille
27.4 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine and sports excitement at Stell's Sports Grille in Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Santa Fe Mexican Grill
27.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Santa Fe Mexican Grill in Iuka, Mississippi, where vibrant flavors and warm hospitality await.
Tri-State Crawfish & Produce
27.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Mississippi seafood at Tri-State Crawfish & Produce, a local favorite for fresh crawfish and Southern delights.
Lil Smokies
27.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of southern barbecue at Lil Smokies in Iuka, where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
El Picante 2
27.7 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at El Picante 2, Iuka's premier Mexican restaurant offering authentic cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Farmhouse Restaurant
27.8 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine in Iuka, Mississippi, where hearty dishes and warm hospitality await at the Farmhouse Restaurant.
Country Squire
29.2 km
Discover the heart of Southern cooking at Country Squire, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and hospitality.
Bear Creek Saloon Guesthouse
34.4 km
Experience Southern hospitality at Bear Creek Saloon Guesthouse, a cozy bed and breakfast in Tishomingo, Mississippi, surrounded by nature and history.
Martyville
37.7 km
Martyville in Tishomingo is the perfect pit stop for travelers, offering fuel, snacks, and friendly service in a clean and welcoming environment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Stagger Lee's Lounge
29.0 km
Discover the lively Stagger Lee's Lounge in Tuscumbia, AL, a unique blend of hotel comfort and vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
Waynes World
84.9 km
Dive into the exhilarating nightlife at Waynes World, Decatur's premier night club, where music and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
113 Club
88.8 km
Discover a premier cigar shop in Decatur, Alabama, offering an exquisite selection of premium cigars and a welcoming atmosphere for enthusiasts.
6 Pockets Billiards
90.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at 6 Pockets Billiards in Decatur, AL - a vibrant bar and pool hall for casual fun and serious competition.
TOP TIER LATINAS LOUNGE
92.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Top Tier Latinas Lounge in Decatur, AL, where music, dance, and great drinks come together for an unforgettable evening.
Noches latinas night club
92.2 km
Immerse yourself in the lively rhythms and vibrant ambiance of Noches Latinas Night Club, Decatur's premier Latin lounge destination.
Club Explosions
92.6 km
Unleash your energy at Club Explosions, Decatur's top nightlife spot for unforgettable music, dancing, and vibrant atmosphere.
Blue Canoe
97.3 km
Discover the lively blend of dining and nightlife at Blue Canoe in Tupelo, MS – a must-visit destination for food and music lovers.
Brew Ha's Bar & Grill
98.5 km
Experience delicious grilled cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere at Brew Ha's Bar & Grill in Tupelo, MS - a perfect spot for food lovers.
Roxy Tupelo
98.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance and great drinks at Roxy Tupelo, the heart of Tupelo's nightlife scene.
