Devil's Backbone Highlights
Discover Devil’s Backbone State Park
Nestled within the Natchez Trace Parkway, this natural area provides an uninhibited look at the diversity of tree species of the Western Highland Rim Forest. Devil’s Backbone State Park is known for its rugged 3.5 mile hike, where the trail winds through a mature forest that has remained largely undisturbed for at least 60 years. Along the way, visitors can take in scenic views, shallow creeks, and resident wildlife like white-tailed deer and woodland birds.
History
The area was acquired in the 1960s with the intention of being a state park and later opened as a State Natural Area in 1997. Since then, the land became known for recreational hiking and preserved forest.
The name “Devil’s Backbone” comes from its proximity to the Natchez Trace Parkway, whose primitive roots date back more than 10,000 years and served as a travel route for Native Americans, explorers, and merchants. When viewed on a map, the route resembles a spine stretching across the landscape, connecting three states.
In addition to serving as a major travel route, it also carried a reputation for danger. Stories of bandits, thieves and outlaws are believed to have influenced the name “Devil’s Backbone.”
Discover Devil's Backbone
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Nature & Landscape
The park features oak-hickory forest, steep ridges, and small streams that are typical of the Western Highland Rim. Elevations range from approximately 700 to 1,000 feet, offering varied terrain and scenic overlooks along the trail.
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Flora & Fauna
The park protects a mature forest ecosystem that has remained largely undisturbed for at least 60 years. Wildlife includes common woodland birds, seasonal migrants, white-tailed deer, raccoons, box turtles, and other native species.
