Owens Creek Waterfall on the Natchez Trace Parkway

A small waterfall sometimes flows at the Owens Creek stop on the Natchez Trace Parkway. The spring that once fed Owens Creek has dried up, so only a rainstorm can get the water flowing over the top of a stone ledge (only a trickle fell both times I visited). There is an overlook of the Owens Creek Waterfall near the parking lot, but for the best photo you really need to make your way down to the base of the falls. The trail is sort of closed, but that’s just Uncle Sam’s over concern for your safety. Pass through the gap in the fence, and if you are nibble—or really determined—you can get down to the bottom on the somewhat steep and rocky trail. But as I said, it’s not much of a waterfall unless it is raining, and who wants to be out in the rain?

Owens Creek is also the southern terminus for the Rocky Springs segment of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail. The trail runs 2.5 miles to the ghost town of Rocky Springs, which is the next stop north when driving the Natchez Trace Parkway. Unfortunately, the segment isn’t very well maintained. Standing at the trailhead, I couldn’t see much of a trail, only forest. Even the directional sign has seen its better days.

Sign for the Rocky Springs segment of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail

In addition to the waterfall and trailhead, there are two picnic tables (no grills).