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Reservoir Overlook: Scenic Vista on the Natchez Trace

Enjoy stunning reservoir views and access the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail at this scenic stop along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway.

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Reservoir Overlook, situated along the Natchez Trace Parkway in Mississippi, provides visitors with stunning views of the Ross Barnett Reservoir. This man-made lake, created in the 1960s, offers a picturesque landscape and recreational opportunities. The overlook also serves as a trailhead for the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail, inviting exploration of the surrounding natural beauty.

A brief summary to Reservoir Overlook

Local tips

  • Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views of the Ross Barnett Reservoir, especially during sunrise or sunset.
  • Take advantage of the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail for a walk, bike ride, or jog along a scenic paved path.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at the overlook's picnic tables while taking in the tranquil atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Reservoir Overlook is directly accessible from the Natchez Trace Parkway at milepost 105.6. From nearby Ridgeland, MS, follow the Natchez Trace Parkway north. The overlook will be on your right. There are no tolls or mandatory access fees. Parking is available at the overlook.

  • Walking

    If you are already on the Natchez Trace Parkway's Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail, you can walk or bike to the Reservoir Overlook. The overlook is the northern terminus of the trail. The trail can be accessed from multiple points, including the Parkway Information Cabin (MP 102.4) and the Choctaw Agency (MP 100.7). There are no fees associated with using the trail.

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Discover more about Reservoir Overlook

Reservoir Overlook is a scenic stop along the Natchez Trace Parkway, offering panoramic views of the Ross Barnett Reservoir. The reservoir, a 50-square-mile body of water, was formed by damming the Pearl River in the 1960s to provide a dependable water supply for the Jackson, Mississippi, area and to prevent floods. Today, it is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities. From the overlook, visitors can appreciate the vastness of the reservoir and the surrounding landscape. The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and nature appreciation. Bicyclists, walkers, and joggers can access the Chisha Foka Multi-Use Trail from the overlook's parking area. This paved trail runs parallel to the Parkway for ten miles, offering a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts. The Ross Barnett Reservoir parallels the Natchez Trace Parkway for eight miles. The reservoir is the largest drinking water resource for the state and was named after Mississippi's 52nd governor, Ross Barnett. The area around the Reservoir Overlook provides opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

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